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Nismo has left LEAF's electric drivetrain untouched. One of the features of the potent 107 hp (80 kW) AC motor is the instant supply of full torque 207 lb-ft (280 Nm). That provides acceleration that is genuinely electrifying. It reaches 60 mph in less than 7 seconds and can sprint on to a top speed of 89 mph (145 km/h).

LEAF's lithium-ion battery, which comprises 48 modules, provides a potential range of 175km (NEDC mode) and can be recharged to full capacity overnight from a domestic electricity supply. It can also be charged to 80 per cent capacity in just 30 minutes, using a Quick Charger.

"Nissan LEAF has shown that zero emission mobility is no longer a dream but a reality. The Nismo Concept not only proves the hidden potential of Nissan LEAF but also adds even more excitement and energy to LEAF, delivering a guilt-free yet exhilarating driving experience that can be enjoyed by every car enthusiast," said Hideaki Watanabe, Corporate Vice President, Nissan Motor Company and head of the company's electric vehicle business unit.

The Concept is not the first LEAF produced by Nismo. In April 2010, Nissan revealed the LEAF Nismo RC, an out and-out electric racing car, at the New York Motor Show. Although sharing a similar silhouette to the standard road car, the LEAF Nismo RC has a three-piece carbon fibre bodywork with removable front and rear sections attached to a central monocoque tub.

The chassis has double wishbone suspension front and rear, while its racing credentials are underlined by the large wing bolted to the back.

Lower, shorter and lighter than the standard car and with rear- rather than front-wheel drive, the LEAF Nismo RC does, however, share two important components with both LEAF and LEAF Nismo Concept - the standard 80kW electric motor and the complete lack of a tailpipe.

Nissan Leaf NISMO Concept: Photo Gallery, Review (1/2) and Specifications