Currently reading: Nissan Leaf Nismo RC: 322bhp electric race car launched
Track-honed Leaf can do 0-62mph in 3.4 seconds and will be used for demonstration runs at events worldwide

Nissan has revealed a new Nissan Leaf Nismo RC electric race car concept, which produces 322bhp and 472lb ft of torque.

The new machine is the second race-tuned Leaf produced by the firm’s Nismo racing arm. With dual electric motors and all-wheel drive, it is capable of achieving 0-62mph in 3.4 seconds, twice as fast as its predecessor from 2011. Six examples of the car will be built to perform demonstration runs at various events, including Formula E race weekends.

Nissan executive vice-president Daniele Schillaci said the Leaf “shows how we’re setting our sights even higher when it comes to raw power and performance – making electric vehicles even more exciting for customers.”

The drivetrain system from the race Nissan Leaf is based on the road version, featuring lithium-ion batteries and inverters, while the all-wheel drive can send power independently to each axle. The use of a carbonfibre monocoque and lightweight components means that the car weighs 1220kg.

The bodywork of the car has also been reworked, extending the length of the race version to 4546mm, with a 2750mm wheelbase. It has a ground clearance of 1212mm, a 300mm reduction from the road version.

Nissan revealed the Leaf Nismo RC at the same time as the official launch of its new Formula E team, with the Japanese firm having taken over the e.dams squad formerly campaigned by alliance partner Renault. British racer Oliver Rowland will join Sebastien Buemi in the team for the 2018/19 season of the all-electric championship, which starts in Saudi Arabia on December 15.

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James Attwood

James Attwood, digital editor
Title: Acting magazine editor

James is Autocar's acting magazine editor. Having served in that role since June 2023, he is in charge of the day-to-day running of the world's oldest car magazine, and regularly interviews some of the biggest names in the industry to secure news and features, such as his world exclusive look into production of Volkswagen currywurst. Really.

Before first joining Autocar in 2017, James spent more than a decade in motorsport journalist, working on Autosport, autosport.com, F1 Racing and Motorsport News, covering everything from club rallying to top-level international events. He also spent 18 months running Move Electric, Haymarket's e-mobility title, where he developed knowledge of the e-bike and e-scooter markets. 

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david RS 1 December 2018

No interest.

No interest.

Chrispy 30 November 2018

Come On Nissan...

Come on Nissan, stop messing about and rool out the 60kW Leaf already....

LP in Brighton 30 November 2018

Will this be available with the £3500 EV grant?

Joking aside, this is a great publicity machine for electric cars, pity there is nothing for it to race against...