Nissan Sakura
The Nissan Sakura is a battery electric kei car marketed by Nissan and produced by NMKV. Named after the national flower of Japan, it was introduced on 20 May 2022 as the first battery electric kei car from Nissan. It is developed and manufactured alongside the Mitsubishi eK X EV, which shares its body structure with the petrol-powered eK X. The only external shared parts are the windshield, door handles, and wing mirrors. Its design was previewed by the IMk concept which was showcased in 2019. Mitsubishi's internal model code is B6AW, while Nissan refers to it as the KE0.
Specifications
The vehicle is powered by a single electric motor with a maximum output of and a maximum torque of with a top speed of. The battery storage uses a 20 kWh lithium-ion unit with an estimated WLTC range of. Grade levels available are S, X and G, with S being intended for commercial users, the X being more comfortably equipped for private buyers, and the G being the most luxurious variant, with a variety of driving aids and adaptive LED headlights amongst other standard equipment. The S omits the fabric covered dashboard amongst other creature comforts, and can easily be recognized by its steel wheels with full wheel covers. The Sakura has been sold in Japan since mid-2022.
Awards
In December 2022, the Sakura alongside the Mitsubishi eK X EV received the 2022–2023 Japan Car of the Year award. The two were also named kei cars of the year.