Next week, Nissan Motor Co. Ltd. (OTCMKTS:$NSANY) will launch its redesigned Leaf, undoubtedly drawing comparisons to its competitors in the production of electric vehicles, Tesla Inc. (NASDAQ:$TSLA) and General Motors Co. (NASDAQ:$GM).
The Leaf is the reigning electric vehicle in sales. Since its release in December 2010, the Leaf has sold over 280, 000 units. Speculations regarding the remodeled design are whether the battery range will go up, and whether Nissan will offer different price points for different battery sizes.
The 2017 model is priced at a base of #31,000, offering a range of 107 miles.
Nissan’s competitive edge? If the range goes up and price remains the same, the Leaf will offer the least expensive and practical way to own a pure electric car. Further, the company is expected to focus more on its exterior design, as the original Leaf was widely criticized for its slump look.
Comparisons
- The Leaf’s current battery range compares with at least 220 miles for Tesla’s Model 3, and 238 miles for GM’s Chevy Bolt
- The Model 3 starts at $35,000, while the Bolt starts at $38,000
- The battery range on the new Leaf will be likely around 150 miles
- The Leaf will have an upperhand on base price over both the Bolt and the Model 3
- The Tesla Model 3 will have the battery and style advantage
Despite its higher price point and luxury product demographic, Tesla dominates the EV market. Its two pioneering vehicles, Model S and Model X luxury represent nearly half of the market share this year.
The official unveiling for the Leaf is set for Tuesday, 6 p.m. Pacific time.
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