Leaf

Make
Nissan
Segment
Hatchback

Nissan has unveiled a racing variant to their Leaf electric car at this year's New York Auto Show. Although it may look like a radio-controlled car, it is in fact a full-size car that's actually about 40 percent lighter than the production Leaf. With a total weight of 2,068 pounds, it's without any rear doors, navigation/stereo system, or carpeting. The battery pack has been moved mid ship for improved weight distribution. Basically, the only thing it has in common with the Leaf hatchback is the battery.

From that point on, designers built an entirely different car. Up front is all LED lighting with unique styling and an driver-adjustable rear wing is out back. Although it won't be used for competition, Nissan claims they're looking into a zero-emissions spec series in the future. The NISMO RC has an estimated run time of 20 minutes in racing conditions and a 30-minute quick charge up to 80 percent capacity. Talk about some lengthy pit stops. The 80kW AC motor produces 107 hp and 207 lb-ft of torque that gives it a 0 to 60 mph time of 6.85 seconds and a 93 mph top speed.