Nissan's Esflow concept. Image: Nissan
As of this writing, there is one electric car in the world of note to enthusiasts, and that’s the Tesla Roadster. The price of admission starts at $109,000, but if you want the best power and handling you need to step up to the $128,500 Tesla Roadster Sport 2.5. The difference really is academic, since very few consumers can afford to drop either amount on a topless sports roadster, even one that potentially saves the planet. The Nissan Leaf is quite a bit more affordable, but that’s not exactly a sporting ride. Why can’t a manufacturer build an EV that appeals to both Greens and Gear Heads of more modest means?
Image: Nissan
Nissan has apparently been asking themselves the same question, and they chose the Geneva Motor Show to roll out their latest EV concept. Called the Esflow, the concept car pushes all the right buttons for the enthusiast. First, it uses two electric motors, mounted mid-ship, to drive the rear wheels in a proper mid-engine, rear drive layout. Next, it positions the lithium ion batteries for optimum weight distribution, in order to further benefit handling. To save weight, the chassis is made from aluminum, and a wraparound windshield ensure that the driver has an unobstructed view of the road ahead. Nissan isn’t giving details on motor output, top speed or even curb weight, but they are claiming a 0 to 100 KPH (62 MPH) time of under five seconds and a range of 240 kilometers (149 miles) on a single charge.
Image: Nissan
Nissan isn’t talking price, either, but they do reference a young male demographic, which clearly makes the Esflow an “affordable” EV sports car. I say build it, and the demand will certainly follow.
Also, don’t forget that you can get discounted new car pricing with a free quote through qualified local dealer partners.
Source: Nissan
Kurt Ernst has been passionate about automobiles and driving nearly his entire life. His early years were shaped working in the family service station, though his real passion was auto racing. After graduating from the University of Colorado, Kurt spent a year club racing with the Sports Car Club of America, before focusing on a business career in marketing and project management. Later, his passion for writing and the automotive hobby found him freelancing for a variety of automotive news sites, including Automotive Addicts and Motor Authority, where his work was syndicated and appeared in several national publications. Recognized as an expert in the automotive field, Kurt joined Hemmings Motor News as an Associate Editor in 2013, and in the years since has progressed to Editor, Hemmings Daily; Managing Editor for Hemmings Motor News, Hemmings Classic Car, Hemmings Muscle Machines, and the Hemmings Daily; and now, Managing Editor, Hemmings Auctions. Kurt was instrumental in organizing the Hemmings Motor News Concours d’Elegance from 2013-2019, and has served as a judge at this event and The Vintage Racing Stable Concours d’Elegance. A Skip Barber Racing School graduate and prolific writer, Ernst is also skilled in copyediting, project management, brand development, and public relations.
