Latest news with #RichardCandler
Scottish Sun
5 days ago
- Automotive
- Scottish Sun
Inside major car brand's new ‘iconic' hatchback EV to be built at huge UK factory – as firm raises £5bn to stay afloat
The new model has undergone a significant redesign ROAD AHEAD Inside major car brand's new 'iconic' hatchback EV to be built at huge UK factory – as firm raises £5bn to stay afloat Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) A STRUGGLING car brand has released details of its new electric crossover ahead of a full reveal later this month. Built at a huge factory in Sunderland, the Nissan Leaf is set to join the market later this year. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 5 The third-generation Nissan Leaf is set to launch later this year Credit: Not known, clear with picture desk 5 Its sleek, higher-riding design emphasises aerodynamics and range Credit: Nissan 5 The car features an electrochromic dimming panoramic roof Credit: Not known, clear with picture desk 5 The Nissan Leaf has sold 700,000 models since its 2010 debut Credit: Getty Now in its third-generation, the electric crossover is scheduled to begin production over the next few months. The launch comes amid the company's financial struggles after they announced £4 billion in losses. As other manufacturers are slowing production on EVs, Nissan's Sunderland factory is focusing more on these eco-friendly alternatives. The company has reduced its production from 17 to 10 factories, with an announcement that 20,000 jobs will be lost. Its newest model has been announced as part of this focus on EVs. Global product strategy boss Richard Candler told Autocar that the latest model was informed by customer feedback since the car's 2010 debut. He said: "Leaf is an icon for us. It's one of our core 'heartbeat' models." First launched in 2010, the Leaf was one of the first mass-market electric cars. Nissan has sold 700,000 Leafs since 2010, covering over 28 billion kilometres. Richard added: "We have really substantial, real-world insight about the customer - understanding how their needs have evolved from the early days of Leaf until now." The company has substantially changed this version's shape and positioning, learning from their Mk1 and Mk2 models. This results in more aerodynamic efficiency, helping to achieve a longer range. While not being officially announced until the debut later this month, its estimated maximum range is 372 miles. The new design reflects a wider market shift away from traditional hatchbacks towards higher-riding cars. Japanese giant unveils its new bargain EV with quirky 'bug eye' headlights It means that the Nissan Leaf could rival cars like the Skoda Elroq. While few details have been announced so far, European product boss François Bailly said they were emphasising "real-world range." This means they have prioritised range and aerodynamics with the design to ensure motorists get the most out of their EV. Global design boss Alfonso Albaisa added: "It's very modern, simple and nice. "We wanted something tailored, handsome, well-proportioned, with a super-tech interior that feels open and cool." It will include features like an electrochromic dimming panoramic roof with heat shielding, creating more headspace by removing the need for physical blinds. Its in-car systems are equipped with their updated Car and Connected Service platform, using a Google-based infotainment system and advanced driver assistance systems to "make your life easier." The new model is launching amidst the company's financial problems. Over the last few weeks, Nissan has announced plans to cut 20,000 jobs, and reported £4billion in losses leading to an £1 billion government bailout. To save on costs, they plan on closing down seven of their factories, with its only UK based factory focusing more on electric cars. During this turbulent period, production on some models has stalled. The company may need to sell its £500 million Yokohama-based global headquarters to combat its extensive losses.
The Sun
5 days ago
- Automotive
- The Sun
Inside major car brand's new ‘iconic' hatchback EV to be built at huge UK factory – as firm raises £5bn to stay afloat
A STRUGGLING car brand has released details of its new electric crossover ahead of a full reveal later this month. Built at a huge factory in Sunderland, the Nissan Leaf is set to join the market later this year. 5 5 5 Now in its third-generation, the electric crossover is scheduled to begin production over the next few months. The launch comes amid the company's financial struggles after they announced £4 billion in losses. As other manufacturers are slowing production on EVs, Nissan's Sunderland factory is focusing more on these eco-friendly alternatives. The company has reduced its production from 17 to 10 factories, with an announcement that 20,000 jobs will be lost. Its newest model has been announced as part of this focus on EVs. Global product strategy boss Richard Candler told Autocar that the latest model was informed by customer feedback since the car's 2010 debut. He said: "Leaf is an icon for us. It's one of our core 'heartbeat' models." First launched in 2010, the Leaf was one of the first mass-market electric cars. Nissan has sold 700,000 Leafs since 2010, covering over 28 billion kilometres. Richard added: "We have really substantial, real-world insight about the customer - understanding how their needs have evolved from the early days of Leaf until now." The company has substantially changed this version's shape and positioning, learning from their Mk1 and Mk2 models. This results in more aerodynamic efficiency, helping to achieve a longer range. While not being officially announced until the debut later this month, its estimated maximum range is 372 miles. The new design reflects a wider market shift away from traditional hatchbacks towards higher-riding cars. Japanese giant unveils its new bargain EV with quirky 'bug eye' headlights It means that the Nissan Leaf could rival cars like the Skoda Elroq. While few details have been announced so far, European product boss François Bailly said they were emphasising "real-world range." This means they have prioritised range and aerodynamics with the design to ensure motorists get the most out of their EV. Global design boss Alfonso Albaisa added: "It's very modern, simple and nice. "We wanted something tailored, handsome, well-proportioned, with a super-tech interior that feels open and cool." It will include features like an electrochromic dimming panoramic roof with heat shielding, creating more headspace by removing the need for physical blinds. Its in-car systems are equipped with their updated Car and Connected Service platform, using a Google-based infotainment system and advanced driver assistance systems to "make your life easier." The new model is launching amidst the company's financial problems. Over the last few weeks, Nissan has announced plans to cut 20,000 jobs, and reported £4billion in losses leading to an £1 billion government bailout. To save on costs, they plan on closing down seven of their factories, with its only UK based factory focusing more on electric cars. During this turbulent period, production on some models has stalled. The company may need to sell its £500 million Yokohama-based global headquarters to combat its extensive losses.
The Irish Sun
5 days ago
- Automotive
- The Irish Sun
Inside major car brand's new ‘iconic' hatchback EV to be built at huge UK factory – as firm raises £5bn to stay afloat
A STRUGGLING car brand has released details of its new electric crossover ahead of a full reveal later this month. Built at a huge factory in Sunderland, the Nissan Leaf is set to join the market later this year. 5 The third-generation Nissan Leaf is set to launch later this year Credit: Not known, clear with picture desk 5 Its sleek, higher-riding design emphasises aerodynamics and range Credit: Nissan 5 The car features an electrochromic dimming panoramic roof Credit: Not known, clear with picture desk 5 The Nissan Leaf has sold 700,000 models since its 2010 debut Credit: Getty Now in its third-generation, the electric crossover is scheduled to The launch comes amid the company's As other manufacturers are slowing production on EVs, Nissan's Sunderland factory is focusing more on these eco-friendly alternatives. The company has reduced its production from 17 to 10 factories, with an announcement that 20,000 jobs will be lost. Read more Motors Its newest model has been announced as part of this focus on EVs. Global product strategy boss Richard Candler He said: "Leaf is an icon for us. It's one of our core 'heartbeat' models." First launched in 2010, the Leaf was one of the first Most read in Motors Nissan has sold 700,000 Leafs since 2010, covering over 28 billion kilometres. Richard added: "We have really substantial, real-world insight about the customer - understanding how their needs have evolved from the early days of Leaf until now." The company has substantially changed this version's shape and positioning, learning from their This results in more aerodynamic efficiency, helping to achieve a longer range. While not being officially announced until the debut later this month, its estimated maximum range is 372 miles. The new design reflects a wider market shift away from traditional hatchbacks towards higher-riding cars. Japanese giant unveils its new bargain EV with quirky 'bug eye' headlights It means that the Nissan Leaf could rival cars like the While few details have been announced so far, European product boss François Bailly said they were emphasising "real-world range." This means they have prioritised Global design boss Alfonso Albaisa added: "It's very modern, simple and nice. "We wanted something tailored, handsome, well-proportioned, with a super-tech interior that feels open and cool." It will include features like an electrochromic dimming panoramic roof with heat shielding, creating more headspace by removing the need for physical blinds. Its in-car systems are equipped with their updated Car and Connected Service platform, using a Google-based infotainment system and advanced driver assistance systems to "make your life easier." The new model is launching amidst the company's Over the last few weeks, Nissan has To save on costs, they plan on closing down seven of their factories, with its only UK based factory focusing more on electric cars. During this turbulent period, production on some models has stalled. The company may need to sell its 5 Nissan is facing significant ongoing financial issues Credit: Getty
Perth Now
6 days ago
- Automotive
- Perth Now
2026 Nissan Leaf revealed in more detail
Ahead of its launch on June 18, Nissan has revealed some details about the third-generation Leaf, which is adopting an SUV-like design. The company revealed the new Leaf's front profile at the end of March, showing off the car's rounder shape, taller ride height, and aerodynamic front end. According to Nobutaka Tase, the Leaf program's design director, the new model is 'most aero efficient car we've ever made' thanks to its fastback-style body, active grille shutters, flat underbody, flush-fitting door handles, and 'optimised' wheel design. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. Supplied Credit: CarExpert There's also an e-dimming panoramic glass roof, which Tase-san claims allowed the team to lower 'critical air detachment points by 12mm'. In the US and Japan the most efficient Leaf variants will have a coefficient of drag of 0.26, while European models bring that number down to 0.25 as they have unique wing mirror and alloy wheel designs . Richard Candler, vice president in charge of global product strategy, says the Leaf is 'icon for us' and is 'one of our core heartbeat models'. Supplied Credit: CarExpert In order for the new Leaf to be a 'credible alternative to combustion engine vehicles' it will be able to do '300 to 500km between stops'. According to Mr Candler the 'average refuelling stop is around 14 minutes, and in that time [the new Leaf] can add over 250km of charge with seamless plug and charge capability'. Under the skin, the new Leaf employs the CMF-EV architecture that underpins the Ariya electric crossover. The platform, rebranded as AmpR Medium, also serves as the basis of the Renault Megane E-Tech and Scenic E-Tech. Supplied Credit: CarExpert Supplied Credit: CarExpert The Ariya is available with 65kWh and 90kWh battery packs, and a selection of drivetrains, starting with a 160kW/300Nm front-wheel drive setup and topping out with a 290kW/600Nm all-wheel drive dual-motor system. Depending on the drivetrain and battery pack combo, the Ariya's WLTP driving range is between 360km and 500km. By way of comparison, the second-generation Leaf has a 110kW/320Nm motor paired to a 39kWh battery in its base trim, offering a WLTP driving range of 270km. The e+ variant has a beefier 160kW/340Nm electric motor, larger 62kWh battery, and a WLTP range of 385km. Since the original Leaf's launch back in 2010 around 700,000 have been sold worldwide. At one stage it was the world's best selling EV ever, but it has since been overtaken by the Tesla Model 3 and Model Y. Collectively all of the world's Leaf models have covered an estimated 28 billion kilometres. The new Leaf will go on sale in Australia in 2026. Local models will likely be sourced from Nissan's factory in Sunderland, UK. MORE: Everything Nissan Leaf
Motor 1
6 days ago
- Automotive
- Motor 1
Why The New Nissan Leaf Is Less Aerodynamic In America
The importance of Nissan's new Leaf cannot be overstated. The troubled Japanese automaker is in crisis mode after losing money for several years and a recently failed merger with Honda . It desperately needs a successful product in the immediate future to bounce back, especially after posting a $4.5 billion loss last year alone. By morphing into a crossover, the next-gen EV stands a better chance of being more popular than its two hatchback predecessors. Until its full debut later this month, Nissan is gradually revealing how it has reinvented the Leaf formula. It's the most aerodynamic production vehicle the company has ever made, but there's a twist. The model slated for the United States will have a drag coefficient of 0.26, while its European counterpart achieves a lower Cd of 0.25. The difference stems from more aero-friendly wheels and mirrors on the European model. On the upside for the US, America's Leaf will be the first electric Nissan to feature a NACS charging port, facilitating access to Tesla's Supercharger network. Even at 0.25, the Leaf isn't as slippery as the updated Tesla Model Y, which boasts a drag coefficient of 0.22. Still, it fares better than some vehicles you might expect to perform better, such as the Z (0.31) and the recently discontinued GT-R (0.26). Nissan has also touched on range, though details remain vague. Richard Candler, Vice President of Global Product Strategy, says owners will be able to drive between 300 and 500 kilometers (186 to 311 miles). The wide range suggests the new Leaf may be offered with different battery packs. A key piece of missing information is which test cycle these figures are based on: WLTP, EPA, or JC08. The company also claims that 14 minutes at a charging station will replenish enough battery for 155 miles (250 kilometers) of range, though again, the test cycle isn't specified. Nissan says the 14-minute recharge time reflects how long people typically spend at a gas station refueling an ICE vehicle. It calls the new Leaf a 'credible alternative to combustion-engine vehicles,' though only customers can validate that claim with their wallets. 2026 Nissan Leaf preview 14 Source: Nissan Regardless of region, the 2026 Leaf will feature an active grille shutter, flush door handles, a sloped roofline, and a flat underfloor to improve airflow. If you're wondering why Nissan hasn't shown the EV's rear, it's likely because the company wants to maintain some secrecy until the official debut in the coming weeks. We do know that it shares the architecture with the larger Ariya , which sits on the AmpR Medium platform, as seen in the Renault Megane E-Tech. In the meantime, we get a look inside, where the Leaf will offer an optional electrochromic dimming panoramic roof with heat shielding via an infrared-reflective coating. Owners can adjust the glass's transparency to control how much light enters the cabin. While this technology isn't new, it's nice to see it on more mainstream models. In the luxury segment, Mercedes has been offering a similar feature for over a decade on models such as the S-Class sedan and SL roadster, as well as on discontinued cars like the S-Class Coupe and SLK/SLC. This party trick has trickled down to the mainstream segment, and you can find it on the Volkswagen ID.7, for example. Nissan is pinning its hopes on the new Leaf to help it recover, but it knows that one EV won't be enough. Several new models are in the pipeline, including the next-generation Sentra and Rogue, as part of a broader plan to revitalize the company. Still, it'll take more than fresh products. Nissan also plans to cut 20,000 jobs, shut down seven factories, retire six vehicle platforms, and allegedly even sell its headquarters in Yokohama. Yes, the situation is that bad. Catch Up With Nissan: Nissan's New Boss Candidly Admits What Went Wrong Nissan Is Pausing Work on Some New Cars to Focus on Cost Cutting Get the best news, reviews, columns, and more delivered straight to your inbox, daily. back Sign up For more information, read our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use . Source: Nissan Share this Story Facebook X LinkedIn Flipboard Reddit WhatsApp E-Mail Got a tip for us? Email: tips@ Join the conversation ( )
