Nissan LEAF™ NISMO RC Takes Zero Emission Strategy to the Track

Purpose-Built Prototype Wraps Production Nissan LEAF Components and Technology in a Racing Carbon Fiber Body.

The name on the back panel, just under the massive adjustable rear wing, says Nissan LEAF™. The powertrain is an 100% zero emission advanced Lithium-ion battery design, just like that found on the world’s first affordable mass market electric vehicle. And despite its lack of rear doors, rear seat, trunk, audio system, navigation, carpeting and other amenities, there is a discernible family resemblance. But that is where the similarities between the production Nissan LEAF and the Nissan LEAF™ NISMO RC end. As indicted by the “RC” – for Racing Competition – this new electric vehicle, which makes its world debut at the 2011 New York International Auto Show on April 20th, is purpose-built to bring new meaning to the term “Racing Green.” Come talk to Larson Nissan of Fife about the Nissan LEAF™ or to view our complete new Nissan cars & used Nissan inventory.

Already a world leader in zero emission production vehicles with the late 2010 launch of the Nissan LEAF™ passenger vehicle in the United States, Europe and Japan, Nissan is now looking at the racing world as a way to draw attention to the seemingly untapped potential of electric vehicles.

“Combining the talents of NISMO, Nissan’s world renowned motorsports group, and engineers behind some of the company’s Super GT and FIA GT1 race teams, the Nissan LEAF™ NISMO RC will serve as a rolling laboratory for the accelerated development of EV and aerodynamic systems, as well as a platform for the development of new green motorsports series,” said Carlos Tavares, chairman, Nissan Americas.

The new electric race vehicle will likely make a series of special demonstration appearances at various motorsports venues in 2011, with the company exploring pioneer zero emission competition spec series in future years.

A Serious Racing Machine
The Nissan LEAF NISMO RC is designed and constructed as a real racing machine, starting with its full carbon fiber monocoque bodywork. The three-piece bodywork includes removable front and rear sections, fixed windows, LED headlights and taillights and adjustable rear wing. Building on the unique exterior styling of the production Nissan LEAF, the 2-door race version was created by Nissan Global Design Center in Japan. Special 4-coat Pearl White paint with blue NISMO/Zero Emission graphics completes the exterior.

Dimensionally, the race car features a 3.9-inch shorter wheelbase, is 0.8 inches longer and 6.7 inches wider. The most dramatic difference is height, with the NISMO RC sitting more than a foot (13.8 inches) lower than the production Nissan LEAF. Ground clearance is limited to 2.4 inches, compared to 6.3 inches for the road going car. And, at 2,068 pounds, the race car weighs in at about 40 percent less than the production vehicle.

The layout of the NISMO RC is also markedly different from the production sedan, offering a mid-ship location for the battery pack, electric motor and inverter – with drive to the rear wheels versus the production Nissan LEAF’s front-wheel drive. The NISMO RC also utilizes a double-wishbone suspension design front and rear and driver-adjustable brake balance. It rides on 18-inch 6-spoke wheels and P225/40R18 Bridgestone racing tires.

Like the production Nissan LEAF™, the NISMO RC is powered by a lithium-ion battery composed of 48 compact modules and a high-response 80kW AC synchronous motor that generates 107 horsepower and 207 lb-ft of torque. It can be charged up to 80 percent of its full capacity in 30 minutes using the quick charging port located inside the rear cowl. And unlike other competition vehicles, the NISMO RC has no tailpipe, no emission of CO2 or other greenhouse gases while being driven, and no exhaust sound.

In preliminary testing the NISMO RC produces 0 to 62 mph acceleration in 6.85 seconds and a top speed of 93 miles per hour. It is projected to have a running time of around 20 minutes under racing conditions.

“There’s a perception among some people that electric vehicles fall on the dull side of the automotive enthusiasm scale – which is certainly not the case with either the production Nissan LEAF or this electrifying Nissan LEAF NISMO RC,” added Tavares. “Nissan LEAF owners are fully embracing this new world of zero emission technology. We believe the same potential exists in the motorsports world as well, with Nissan proud to be first on the starting grid.”

About Larson Nissan of Fife

New Nissan cars or used Nissan cars in Fife and serving Puyallup Bremerton Seattle at Larson Nissan of Fife Dealership

With over 11 franchise dealerships in Washington state, we’re sure that you’ll find the new Nissan cars or used cars you’ve been L@@King for in Fife. We also serve Bremerton, Puyallup, Lakewood, Federal Way, Auburn, Seattle, Bellevue, Everett, Redmond, and Olympia. Directions to our Nissan Dealership!

Larson Auto Group is a family owned and operated Fife based company conveniently located near Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM) and is the largest Dealership group in Washington state and we are anxious to continue establishing new customer relationships based on our “Buy with Confidence” sales, service and parts processes focusing on customer satisfaction. Convenience is a priority focus to our current and new customer base here at our Larson Nissan of Fife dealership. Feel free to browse our used Nissan inventory.

With 8 service & repair locations staffed by certified and trained factory technicians performing all factory warranty concerns, service & repairs, and factory O.E.M. parts. “24 Reasons to Buy” from Larson Nissan of Fife dealership serving residents of Fife, Seattle, Bremerton, Puyallup, Lakewood, Federal Way, Auburn, Bellevue, Everett, Redmond, Olympia and the greater Pierce County area!

We have FREE shuttle service and Wifi at all locations.

What can you expect from Larson Nissan of Fife?
We can help give you a head start toward credit re-establishment and get you driving home today in your choice of top quality Nissan cars, trucks, and SUVs from one the largest inventories in Fife and serving Seattle, Bremerton, Puyallup, Lakewood, Federal Way, Auburn, Bellevue, Everett, Redmond, Olympia, and Washington State with as little as no money down or no down payment. At Larson Auto Group… “WE SAY YES!” and with over 11 dealerships Washington state, we’re sure that you’ll find the vehicle your L@@King for!