Nissan unveiled the IMx KURO concept at the Geneva
Motor Show earlier this year and it appears the model could eventually spawn a
production variant. Citing a “highly credible and well-informed source,” CleanTechnica is
reporting that Nissan is working on an electric crossover that would have a
range of approximately 354 km. That’s a significant improvement
over the Leaf’s 241 km range and isn’t too far off from the Tesla
Model X 75D which has an EPA-estimated range of 381 km.
Despite the having a Tesla-like range, Nissan’s
crossover would be significantly more affordable. While the aforementioned
Model X starts at US$ 83,000, the electric
Nissan is rumored to have a target price of US$ 45,000. That’s nearly US$ 15,000 more
than the entry-level Leaf, but it would likely become one of the most
affordable electric crossovers on the market.
Little else is known about the model, but the
publication’s source said the crossover is roughly the same size as the Lexus
RX. The crossover is also rumored to have slab-sided styling, a panoramic roof
and a “transparent” grille with an illuminated Nissan logo.
The crossover is also said to have a “very upscale”
interior with special upholstery and an “elongated screen [which spans] from in
front of the driver to around the middle of the passenger seat.” The latter
item sound similar to the wraparound screen that was featured in the Xmotion
concept.
There’s no word on performance specifications or a
timeline, but it’s likely the model will be heavily influenced by the Leaf. The
source also suggested the company hasn’t decided whether or not to sell the
model as a Nissan or an Infiniti. However, the report suggests the both brands could
potentially receive a version of the crossover.
