In a move that underscores its leadership in electric mobility, Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. has kicked off a three-part video series showcasing the behind-the-scenes work of its design, engineering, and planning teams in developing the all-new, third-generation Nissan LEAF—a global EV icon reimagined for the modern age.
With a legacy built on over 700,000 units sold globally since its groundbreaking debut in 2010, the all-new LEAF draws on 15 years of electric mobility expertise and feedback from real-world usage. Cumulatively, LEAF drivers have traveled nearly 28 billion kilometers, making it one of the most widely adopted and road-tested EVs in history.
Design that Balances Boldness and Efficiency
The next-generation LEAF has been completely redesigned, incorporating Nissan’s “do what others don’t dare to do” spirit. With a coefficient of drag as low as 0.25 (Europe) and 0.26 (U.S. and Japan), the vehicle marries performance and aerodynamics with modern aesthetics.
Richard Candler, Vice President of Global Product Strategy, emphasized the model’s broader ambition: “We wanted the all-new Nissan LEAF to offer a truly credible alternative to combustion vehicles—not just for EV enthusiasts, but for everyday families.”
Design features contributing to the LEAF’s aerodynamic prowess include flush door handles, an active grille shutter, flat underfloor, and a fastback rear silhouette that enhances airfoil efficiency. European variants benefit further from specially optimized wheel and mirror designs.
Glass Roof Innovation Redefines Cabin Comfort
A standout feature of the new LEAF is its electrochromic panoramic roof, which uses e-dimming technology to eliminate the need for traditional sunshades and blinds. This innovation maintains interior headroom while enhancing year-round comfort through adjustable transparency and an infrared reflective coating to reduce heat buildup.
“Every design choice was optimized for aero and energy efficiency,” said Nobutaka Tase, Program Design Director. “Even the panoramic glass roof plays a role in reducing vehicle height at critical airflow points, improving drag without sacrificing comfort.”
Spacious, EV-Optimized Interior
Built on Nissan’s CMF-EV platform, the new LEAF offers a flat-floor cabin that delivers a spacious, open interior—making it as practical as it is progressive. The innovative packaging showcases how Nissan is leveraging its EV-specific architecture to prioritize both efficiency and passenger comfort.
Global Launch Coming Soon
As part of the countdown to the global launch, Nissan’s video series provides a rare look into the collaborative efforts of its cross-functional teams. The LEAF remains a “heartbeat model” for Nissan, symbolizing the brand’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and accessible EV technology.
