Nissan EV

Nissan is going all-electric! On 2nd August the Japanese brand will announce its first Zero Emissions vehicle. The as yet unnamed 5-seat hatchback was created from the ground up for electric only driving.

A micro-site has shown the front of the new EV and Nissan will release official images and information on 2nd August but until then we have some insider information from a media test drive session.

Externally, the car features a distinctively sharp, upright V-shaped design and protruding headlights that split and redirect airflow away from the door mirrors, reducing drag.

Elsewhere, the EV is powered by compact lithium-ion batteries and an 80kW electric motor which, when coupled with the aerodynamic body and low consumption electronics, should offer a range of around 160kms.

If you find yourself low on charge, the EV has an IT system that informs the driver of a ‘reachable area’ on the remaining charge and all the charging stations within that area.

Performance is roughly the same as a 2.0-litre petrol powered car and handling is even slightly improved over petrol counterparts because of the low centre of gravity provided by the heavy batteries in the floor of the vehicle.

The car is expected to go on sale in Japan and the U.S in 2010 and in Europe by early 2011. Prices should start at around £20,000