New Nissan electric cars: 15 new EVs promised by 2030; four concepts unveiled

Nissan has laid out its electrification strategy between now and 2030, promising to launch 23 new electrified models, including 15 new pure-electric cars, in that time. The plan is called 'Ambition 2030' and represents a major step towards the company's goal of becoming fully end-to-end carbon-neutral by 2050.

Globally, Nissan hopes that 50% of its sales will be electrified by 2030, with a 75% electrified mix in Europe by 2026 forming a key part of that target. In Japan and China, it's hoping for 55% and 40% electrified sales respectively by 2026, and in the US it's aiming for 40% electrified sales by 2030.

In tandem with announcing its plans, Nissan has also taken the wraps off a set of new electric concept cars, some of which may serve as previews of upcoming production models. These include what could be an SUV-style replacement for the current Nissan Leaf, which would slot into the range below the soon-to-be-launched Nissan Ariya.

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Nissan Chill Out concept

Nissan describes this concept as a "near-future EV" and it's believed to preview elements of the forthcoming third-generation version of the big-selling Leaf. The car is set to make the jump from compact hatchback to SUV for its next evolution, and while some of the more radical interior elements of the Chill Out are unlikely to make production, its basic shape and design cues could point to how the next Leaf will look.

The Chill Out sits on the same CMF-EV platform that underpins the Ariya (as well as upcoming electric cars from alliance partner Renault, including the new electric Megane) and features "a sleek and modern design, advanced safety technology, and a productive and comfortable interior space".

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Nissan Hang Out concept

This concept previews a small yet practical recreational vehicle that could serve as an electric rival to the likes of the Volkswagen Caddy camper should it go into production. It and the other two concepts below look further into the future than the Chill Out by considering "the direction of future EVs, and how advancements in battery technology, hardware and packaging can offer customers a wide variety of mobility solutions to match their needs and lifestyles".

The three concepts sit on a common 'skateboard' platform and make use of solid-state batteries, which Nissan expects to have in production by 2028, having opened a pilot factory for the technology by 2024. Nissan says this layout will allow for front and rear electric motors, a very low centre of gravity, low weight and optimum mass distribution.

The Hang Out has been designed to "suppress vibrations and jolts, thereby reducing instances of motion sickness and interference while working on the go" and also promises "the comfort of your living room in a mobile space, expanding creature comforts on the go and off the beaten path".

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Nissan Surf Out concept

A rugged pickup-truck concept, the Surf Out previews a possible electric equivalent to the Nissan Navara, which would do battle with the Rivian R1T, Ford F-150 Lightning and upcoming Tesla Cybertruck in the burgeoning zero-emissions pickup market.

According to Nissan, the Surf Out will "provide a smooth ride regardless of the terrain, enabling customers to go anywhere in comfort and with confidence". A variety of power outputs, along with a low and flat cargo space, are also promised.

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Nissan Max Out concept

Perhaps the least likely of three concepts to go into production, the Max Out previews a two-seat electric roadster with offset seating. It promises both "superlative stability and comfort" as well as "dynamic cornering and steering response" and limited body lean.

The passenger seat can be flattened to the floor if required, freeing up more luggage space if the driver is travelling alone. Similar electric sports car concepts to the Max Out include the Tesla Roadster (which the company says will enter production by 2023) and the MG Cyberster.