So Nismo decides to build a Nissan Leaf Racecar…. Hmmmm. I’m not too sure what to think of it. However, with the increased sales in Hybrid Electric vehicles, I suppose it’s something to look forward to.

But, how does it sit with some of you petrol heads? How does the whirr of an electric motor compare to a good ‘ole piston, or even a rotary engine?

To me, it’s clearly not the same. There’s nothing like the experience of seeing a piston engine powered car speeding down the racetrack. Even the sounds of a car going through gears leaves a heavy imprint in my mind of how a car is supposed to work. What’s with the whirring sound of an electric motor that seems to grow exponentially? It’s really not the same at all.

At least it’s good to know that Motorsports, in any form, isn’t dying out. The fact is many of us still find lots of joy behind the wheel of our own car, racing or not. What difference does it make if the sound of the motor isn’t the same? Probably very little.

TEIN seems to be very well prepared in providing suspension kits for all types of enthusiasts. We’ve received many inquiries recently specifically for Nissan Leaf suspension, which TEIN Japan already has available (Street Basis dampers, part# GSK32-11AS2). We’ve had suspension for the 3rd generation Toyota Prius and the Honda CR-Z for some time now. So maybe we’re on the right track in understanding that “Green Cars” are here to stay.

Speaking of Electric Powered Race Cars, seems that Toyota has put one out on the Nordschleife. End result- ONE QUICK LAP TIME!