Nissan's future models are set to be able to accommodate pure electric powertrains, opening up the possibility of all-electric versions of the likes of the Nissan Juke and Nissan Qashqai.
“We’re leaders in crossovers and a leader with Leaf and we will combine those two in the future,” said Gareth Dunsmore, director of the Nissan’s zero-emission business unit.
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At present, Nissan’s electric models are built on dedicated EV platforms. Dunsmore said this would always be the preferable option, but the “next step is a platform fit for EVs from day one”. These platforms would also be engineered to take internal combustion engines and other drivetrain technology.
Dunsmore added: “I hope EV stands up within that [platform] and people see it as environmentally friendly, fun and cost-efficient.”
He also hinted that Nissan was investigating the launch of smaller electric vehicles. “We have a range of options; some people want smaller vehicles and we’ll look at that.”
Last year Autocar revealed that Nissan was working on developing a family of Nissan Leaf-branded electric vehicles, of which this smaller model could be a part.
