Nissan’s electric future: from race track to driveway
It’s been a landmark season for Nissan in Formula E. As the championship heads into its final round, the team is firmly in contention for top honours — a feat that not only reflects engineering prowess on the track, but also signals something deeper about the brand’s identity.
Nissan UK Managing Director James Taylor explains that the Japanese manufacturer sees Formula E not just as a competition, but as a crucible for innovation — and proof of the brand’s long-term commitment to electrification.
“We’re hopeful we can walk away from this weekend with more than just one trophy,” he says. “But beyond that, these results validate everything Nissan has been working towards. We’ve been in the EV game longer than almost anyone.”
That’s not just corporate spin. Nissan was the first mainstream manufacturer to launch a mass-market EV, the Leaf, back in 2010. Now in its third generation, the Leaf remains one of the most recognisable electric models on British roads.
“It’s easy to forget how much ground the Leaf broke,” Taylor says. “What we’re seeing now — in Formula E and on the roads — is the product of billions of miles driven and years of EV development. The experience really shows.”
From race day to real life
The connection between Formula E and Nissan’s production models is closer than many might think.
“In the early days, it was all about learning from our road cars and applying those lessons to the race team,” Taylor explains. “But that’s changed. Now we’re at a point where it goes both ways.”
The latest Leaf, he says, benefits from the kind of dynamic feedback loop that motorsport enables — a testbed for cutting-edge electric drivetrains, regenerative braking systems, and energy management algorithms.
“If you’ve driven the new Leaf, you’ll know what I mean,” Taylor adds. “It’s sharper. More responsive. Some of that is direct influence from our racing programme. We’re always looking to cross-pollinate.”
It’s an approach that’s helping to reinforce Nissan’s image as not just an early mover in the EV space, but as a manufacturer committed to evolving its offering — and constantly improving the EV driving experience.
Navigating the next phase of EV adoption
Despite years of progress, electrification remains at a crossroads in the UK. Demand from fleet buyers has remained robust, thanks in part to favourable Benefit-in-Kind (BiK) tax treatment. But for private buyers, uptake has been more sluggish.
“The new government grant for private buyers is a step in the right direction — and one we’ve been calling for,” Taylor says. “But the reality is, there’s a long way to go.”
With the UK’s Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate now setting hard targets for the proportion of EVs sold, manufacturers are under pressure to hit 50% EV sales in the next few years. That, Taylor says, will require more than financial nudges.
“We’ve got to fix the infrastructure,” he says bluntly. “If you don’t have a driveway, charging is still far too inconvenient. Until we address that — with proper on-street provision — mass adoption will remain a challenge.”
He’s optimistic that the grant, paired with sustained investment in infrastructure, will move the needle. “We’re already seeing an uplift in electric interest — particularly in the lead mix. But policy and practicality have to work together.”
A manufacturing edge – and a made-in-Britain boost
Where Nissan does have a clear advantage is on home soil. The company’s Sunderland plant is set to produce both the new-generation Leaf and the all-electric Juke in 2026, providing a significant lift for British industry — and a strategic benefit for ZEV compliance.
“With those vehicles going into full production in Sunderland, we’ve got a strong proposition,” Taylor says. “That should help us hit ZEV targets, assuming the final criteria align. We’re working closely with the government on that.”
Add to that Nissan’s growing stable of electrified options — from mild hybrids and e-POWER vehicles to full BEVs — and the company is well placed to offer a model for almost every need.
“Our e-POWER cars, for instance, are ideal for drivers who want an electric experience without needing to worry about charging. You get all the benefits — instant torque, one-pedal driving — but with petrol refuelling.”
Reinventing the Micra for the electric age
One of the most anticipated entries in Nissan’s EV portfolio is the forthcoming Micra. But anyone expecting a simple reboot will be in for a surprise.
“Yes, it’s built on the same platform as the Renault 5,” Taylor acknowledges, “but it’s larger, it’s distinctively Nissan in design, and it’s aimed at a different buyer.”
The response, he says, has been “overwhelmingly positive” — both from dealers and from customers engaging online. “The residual values look strong. And the Micra name still resonates in the UK. People trust it.”
Final specs and pricing are coming soon, but the new Micra EV is shaping up to be a major player in the urban mobility space — especially with the government now encouraging smaller, more affordable electric options.
Giving customers real choice
For Taylor, Nissan’s role is not just to build electric cars, but to help customers find the right one.
“People have different needs. Long-distance drivers. Urban commuters. Families. So whether it’s a hybrid, e-POWER, or full EV, we want to give them options. Our job is to help guide them — not push them into something that doesn’t fit.”
He’s also keen to stress that electrification isn’t a trend — it’s the future. “I’ve driven EVs for years. I know how good they are. The challenge now is making sure more people have the confidence — and infrastructure — to make the switch.”
With a refreshed line-up, a recommitment to UK production, and a clear-eyed view of the road ahead, Taylor is confident that Nissan is not only keeping pace — but helping lead the charge.
