Latest news with #RichardCandler
The Sun
11-06-2025
- Automotive
- The Sun
Nissan showcases next-generation LEAF with behind-the-scenes video series
NISSAN Motor Co., Ltd. has unveiled a behind-the-scenes look at the development of its all-new LEAF electric vehicle through a newly released three-part video series. The short films highlight the vision and work of the teams behind the planning, design, and engineering of what is described as a truly third-generation electric vehicle. Having sold nearly 700,000 units globally since the LEAF's debut in 2010, Nissan has drawn heavily on over a decade of experience and customer feedback in shaping the latest model. Across those years, owners of the pioneering electric vehicle are estimated to have collectively driven close to 28 billion kilometres, providing a rich foundation of data and real-world usage that informed the creation of the next-generation LEAF. Described by Nissan as one of its core 'heartbeat models,' the LEAF remains a symbol of the company's bold innovation strategy. Since its launch as the first mass-market electric vehicle, it has been a global ambassador of Nissan's commitment to doing what others shy away from, combining technological innovation with practical design to redefine what an EV can be. The new LEAF has been developed with a clear goal: to provide a genuine and compelling alternative to internal combustion vehicles. According to Richard Candler, Vice President of Global Product Strategy, the intention was not only to appeal to early adopters but to offer a product with broad, everyday appeal. The design had to strike a careful balance—sleek and emotionally resonant, yet grounded in functionality to suit modern families. Aerodynamic efficiency has been a key focus for the design and engineering teams, who collaborated closely to refine both form and function. The result is a striking, fastback silhouette that achieves a drag coefficient of just 0.26 in markets such as the United States and Japan. European variants, thanks to bespoke wheel and mirror designs, push this figure even lower to 0.25 Cd. This performance is further enhanced by a number of aerodynamic features, including flush-fitting door handles, an active grille shutter, a flat underfloor, and an integrated rear liftback designed to function like an airfoil. Program Design Director Nobutaka Tase explained that every design decision was made with aerodynamics and energy efficiency in mind. He noted that the panoramic glass roof, which features dimming technology, played a crucial role in reducing the vehicle's height by 12 mm at critical points where airflow detaches from the car's body. This subtle adjustment improves aerodynamic performance while maintaining generous interior headroom. The glass roof utilises electrochromic technology, enabling drivers to control the transparency of the panel and manage sunlight without the need for traditional sunshades, which can often compromise interior space. A heat-reflective coating provides further protection, helping to maintain cabin comfort in all seasons. Inside, the adoption of Nissan's CMF-EV platform ensures a spacious, open cabin feel, aided by a flat floor that enhances both comfort and utility for passengers. The result is a bold, forward-looking electric car that does not sacrifice practicality for style. The all-new LEAF is set for a global reveal later this month. Nissan's video series will continue to provide insights into the development of this important model as anticipation builds ahead of its official debut.
The Sun
11-06-2025
- Automotive
- The Sun
Nissan Reveals Next-Gen LEAF with Behind-the-Scenes Videos
NISSAN Motor Co., Ltd. has unveiled a behind-the-scenes look at the development of its all-new LEAF electric vehicle through a newly released three-part video series. The short films highlight the vision and work of the teams behind the planning, design, and engineering of what is described as a truly third-generation electric vehicle. Having sold nearly 700,000 units globally since the LEAF's debut in 2010, Nissan has drawn heavily on over a decade of experience and customer feedback in shaping the latest model. Across those years, owners of the pioneering electric vehicle are estimated to have collectively driven close to 28 billion kilometres, providing a rich foundation of data and real-world usage that informed the creation of the next-generation LEAF. Described by Nissan as one of its core 'heartbeat models,' the LEAF remains a symbol of the company's bold innovation strategy. Since its launch as the first mass-market electric vehicle, it has been a global ambassador of Nissan's commitment to doing what others shy away from, combining technological innovation with practical design to redefine what an EV can be. The new LEAF has been developed with a clear goal: to provide a genuine and compelling alternative to internal combustion vehicles. According to Richard Candler, Vice President of Global Product Strategy, the intention was not only to appeal to early adopters but to offer a product with broad, everyday appeal. The design had to strike a careful balance—sleek and emotionally resonant, yet grounded in functionality to suit modern families. Aerodynamic efficiency has been a key focus for the design and engineering teams, who collaborated closely to refine both form and function. The result is a striking, fastback silhouette that achieves a drag coefficient of just 0.26 in markets such as the United States and Japan. European variants, thanks to bespoke wheel and mirror designs, push this figure even lower to 0.25 Cd. This performance is further enhanced by a number of aerodynamic features, including flush-fitting door handles, an active grille shutter, a flat underfloor, and an integrated rear liftback designed to function like an airfoil. Program Design Director Nobutaka Tase explained that every design decision was made with aerodynamics and energy efficiency in mind. He noted that the panoramic glass roof, which features dimming technology, played a crucial role in reducing the vehicle's height by 12 mm at critical points where airflow detaches from the car's body. This subtle adjustment improves aerodynamic performance while maintaining generous interior headroom. The glass roof utilises electrochromic technology, enabling drivers to control the transparency of the panel and manage sunlight without the need for traditional sunshades, which can often compromise interior space. A heat-reflective coating provides further protection, helping to maintain cabin comfort in all seasons. Inside, the adoption of Nissan's CMF-EV platform ensures a spacious, open cabin feel, aided by a flat floor that enhances both comfort and utility for passengers. The result is a bold, forward-looking electric car that does not sacrifice practicality for style. The all-new LEAF is set for a global reveal later this month. Nissan's video series will continue to provide insights into the development of this important model as anticipation builds ahead of its official debut.
Scottish Sun
05-06-2025
- 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
05-06-2025
- 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
05-06-2025
- 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
