As the next generation of EVs takes shape, the next couple of years are going to see some electrifying competition. No sooner had GM finished its sound-and-light show for the upcoming Bolt EV than Nissan CEO Carlos Ghosn reminded us that a redesigned LEAF is due to come to market in about two years, with at least double its current range.
“We want to be competitive,” Ghosn told The Detroit News. “It may have even more range [than 200 miles]. Generations of EVs coming are going to get better, less costly, lighter, more autonomous.”
Like Tesla’s Elon Musk, Ghosn says that he welcomes competition from Chevrolet and other brands. “We shouldn’t worry about who we are competing with. We should worry about increasing [EVs’] share of the market.”
Nor is Ghosn worried about the recent dip in fuel prices, noting that no one can predict future price trends, and that mileage and emission mandates are growing stricter worldwide.
The next-gen LEAF is now under development, and is expected to hit the road about a year ahead of the Bolt. Its price tag may be as low as $30,000 before tax incentives.
“We are the leaders and we frankly intend to continue to be the leaders,” said Ghosn.
Source: Detroit News