Nissan to Launch its Own Version of MX-5

Aug 9 2011

The Japanese car manufacturer Nissan once again has plans to bring back a rival to the Mazda MX5, and this time it could be an all-electric version.

Way back in 2008 Nissan had plans to revive the legendary 200SX, but these plans had to be shelved at the time. We can now confirm that work on the project has resumed as part of Nissan's plans to launch no less than 52 new models by 2016.

Before plans for the 200SX 2+2 had to be shelved, Nissan engineers wanted it to be built around the 370Z platform. Under the bonnet would have been a 188bhp version of the 1.6 litre turbo engine used in the Nissan Juke.

It has now been revealed that the new car will probably get a completely different name and it will also use a different chassis. In March 2011 Nissan signed an agreement with Daimler, under the terms of which the latter will supply a range of mid-size platforms to Nissan that could be used for a variety of models, from four-cylinders to V8s.

Industry insiders say that Nissan has not yet decided on an engine for the new car, but that both a hybrid setup and a tuned version of the Leaf's drive-train were being considered.

Nissan has previously shown interest in a rear-wheel drive all-electric sports car. Insiders say that Lotus Engineering will help them to fine-tune the chassis and UK engineers could help with keeping the construction lightweight.

Don't start looking for a car loan just yet: the new model is not expected in showrooms before 2013.

Author - Louise Hutchinson
 

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