Next Nissan LEAF to get advanced aero

Nissan's teasing of its next-generation LEAF has continued with a new short video explaining how the all-new pure-electric hatchback will feature advanced aerodynamics.

According to the Japanese brand, the new LEAF's aero package has been designed to minimise drag in order to boost the distance between battery recharges.

Nissan claims an additional payback of the aerodynamic efficiency is reduced noise at cruising speeds.

Reportedly inspired by an airplane wing, the Nissan says the LEAF generates zero lift at highway speeds so, compared with traditional hatchbacks, it is more efficient, more stable and less impacted by cross winds.

Despite its state-of-the-art aero, from our first glimpse of the teased images, the second-generation LEAF will look more like an enlarged Nissan Micra than the aerodynamic inspiration for a future hatchback.

Set to make its world debut on September 6, ahead of a public unveiling at the Frankfurt motor show, Nissan has confirmed the LEAF will introduce its next-gen ProPILOT semi-autonomous cruise control and parking aid.

The replacement LEAF will also come with an e-Pedal which allows drivers to simply use the throttle pedal to both accelerate and brake.

Rumoured to trade the current car’s 30kWh lithium-ion battery for larger 40kWh and long-range 60kWh units, the next pure-electric Nissan hatch is thought to have a range of almost 550km — more than twice as much as the 250km of the current model.

And the LEAF will score wireless charging using charging pads.

Set to compete against the Chevrolet Bolt (which is not being manufactured for for right-hand drive markets), the next LEAF could also clash price-wise with the Tesla Model 3.

Expect yet more teases of the LEAF ahead of its global debut next month.