Nissan turns over a new Leaf

NISSAN has begun teasing its new-generation emissions-free Leaf, with a rumoured reveal during the Frankfurt motor show in September and an expected Australian on-sale date sometime in 2019.

Revealing a single, close-up image of a headlight, the new Leaf will feature a two-tiered, square-shaped front lighting signature – reminiscent of the current overseas Micra micro car – as well as what appears to be a sweeping daytime running light design.

Accompanied by the text “amazing things are worth waiting for”, Nissan is yet to release any further information on the new model.

However, rumours are pointing to the 2015 Tokyo motor show-starring IDS concept as an inspiration for the next-generation Leaf, with sharp styling and a futuristic design philosophy.

The new Leaf is also expected to retain its all-electric drivetrain credentials, while boosting driving range up to 400 kilometres from the 100-200km of the first-generation model.

Nissan’s semi-autonomous self-driving Piloted Drive mode is also likely to arrive with the new Leaf, which utilises a series of sensors and arrays to ‘read’ drivers behaviours to mimic the specific driving style.

When launched, Nissan will face competition from incoming rivals including the Tesla Model 3 and Chevrolet Bolt – both featuring small car dimensions and around 350km of pure electric driving range.