Nissan recently announced that they are planning on introducing three additional electric vehicles besides the Leaf in the next three years. One will be a small urban vehicle, referred to as the New Mobility Concept. It is not known at this time what the performance parameters of the vehicle will be. While the New Mobility Concept looks very much like a low speed vehicle, Nissan could design the vehicle to have a higher top speed than currently allowed for LSVs. According to Nissan the vehicle could be the ideal last mile transportation solution for commuters connecting to public transit or for residents of planned communities.
Nissan’s entry into the LSV market would be an important event in the market since major auto manufacturers have not been active in the market, except for Chrysler which has operated under the GEM not Chrysler brand. Earlier forays into the previously labeled NEV market by the majors was essentially only to meet California ZEV mandates. Nissan’s move appears to be part of a strategic plan to develop a robust electric vehicle product line. Their market entry could also create more demand for NHTSA to develop a medium speed vehicle classification. Learn more: Reviews.cnet.com