Geneva 2011: Nissan turns over a new, sporting Leaf with Esflow Concept [w/video]

Filed under: Concept Cars, Coupe, Geneva Motor Show, Videos, Nissan, Electric

Nissan Esflow Concept – Click above for high-res image gallery

If a Nissan 370Z the electric boogaloo with a Leaf, the lovechild would be the Nissan Esflow. The two-seat Esflow is a rear-wheel-drive electric sports car that promises its only emissions will be some why-so-serious smiles.

A pair of electric motors sits above the rear wheels. Power from these units is sent independently, meaning the Esflow utilizes one engine per drive wheel. This, Nissan says, allows the Esflow to precisely meter out the torque and turn it into powerful forward acceleration. Thanks to this system, Nissan says Esflow will run from 0-62 miles per hour in under five seconds.

Providing the energy for that acceleration is the same laminated lithium-ion battery pack that can be found in the Leaf EV. The batteries are said to last for a range of up to 150 miles per full charge. In the Esflow, however, the batteries are spread out across the front and rear axis of the car to promote better weight distribution. Aswith all electric cars, the Esflow’s balance remains constant as the batteries are drained, unlike in a convectional gas-powered vehicle that loses weight as fuel is consumed.

The exterior style of the Nissan Esflow is typical concept not-gonna-happen. From the wraparound windshield and blue lighting to the pushed out wheel placement and rear 370Z taillights-on-acid, the Esflow is a Nissan sports car designer’s wet dream.

Inside, the Esflow is described as “ecological minimalism,” yet there’s an abundance of leather and suede, so despite the EV eco-cred, PETA members are still likely to be nonplussed. Check out our high-res image gallery below, then hit the jump for a video with Nissan General Manager Francois Bancon discussing the Esflow.

Gallery: Nissan Esflow Concept: Geneva 2011