The 2018 Nissan Leaf was absent at the CES 2017 where the Japanese automaker only unveiled their upcoming autopilot feature. The upgraded version of the EV is expected to come out with the ProPilot autonomous system as well as 200 miles of driving range. Industry observers believe that the next-gen mode might outsell the Tesla Model 3.
According to Hybrid Cars, a Tesla Models 3 could cost over $100,000. The all-electric midsized sedan will roll out of the factory later this year. The Elon Musk company proposed a $35,000 starting price but this could spike up considering the EV's premium features.
Meanwhile, Japanese news outlet Nikkei estimated the 2018 Nissan Leaf to be as cheap as the automaker's gasoline counterparts. This puts the Japanese EV at $24,500 or $17,000 following federal credit cut.
The Model 3 was introduced as a prototype more than a year ago. It generated so much interest that about 400,000 buyers made reservations. The 2018 Nissan Leaf will be unveiled later this year. What makes the latter more attractive is the strength of its current model, which was still able to sell well despite its age. Even the release of the Chevrolet Bolt EV did not affect the Leaf's sale.
The next-generation Leaf poses a big threat to the Tesla Model 3 due to one factor - price. The Leaf will also rely on the excellent sales posted by its predecessor model. Those who are price sensitive about their EV might go for the Japanese-made vehicle.
The year 2016 is impressive for the Leaf sales-wise. Despite the car's age and poor resale value, the vehicle beat the Bolt and made more leaps in sales. This scenario may happen again, with the Tesla Model 3 as its next competitor in the market. Those Tesla marketers may consider some adjustments in the pricing department or be left out in EV supremacy.
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