NISSAN NISMO LEAF CONCEPT: THE SPORTY-LOOKING EV WE ALL NEED

Just because a car is electric, doesn't mean it has to look boring – and the Nissan Nismo Leaf concept is proof of that.

Nissan will be displaying its electric ambitions at this month's Tokyo Motor Show with a new concept vehicle as well as its sportier version – the recently unveiled next-generation Leaf electric vehicle.

The Nissan Leaf Nismo Concept is a pulse-pumping take on the Japanese carmaker's flagship EV, with tuner treatment by its Nismo performance sub-brand.

According to Nissan, the sexy and sporty exterior changes improve aerodynamic performance and reduce lift, keeping the Nismo Leaf glued to the road for more exciting handling. In addition, it gets a sport-tuned suspension, high-performance tires and a custom-tuned computer that delivers "instant acceleration at all speeds", while red accents complete the Nismo look.

"On the road, the Leaf Nismo Concept offers a truly exciting drive," the company said.

Nissan will also be unveiling a concept vehicle that hints at the future direction of its "intelligent mobility" strategy. The concept will combine three technologies that Nissan positions as essential to its brand: electrification, autonomous driving and connectivity.

Although Nissan did not offer many details about the concept, it may be a long-awaited electrified crossover variant of the Leaf that executives have been hinting at for months.

Nissan's executive vice president for zero emission vehicles as well as global marketing and sales, Daniele Schillaci, said weeks ago that it wasn't out of the question to think that the company would have an EV crossover in the "near future."

Alliance partner Mitsibushi Motors Corp. is planning its own electric crossover at the Tokyo Show – a coupe-like four-wheeler dubbed the e-Evolution Concept.

At the Tokyo Show, Nissan will expand on the performance theme with a Nismo version of the Serena, a Japan-market family van. That vehicle, which will go on sale this November, is expected to deliver sharper handling and spunkier pickup thanks to a sportier suspension and new engine control unit.

Will the Nissan Nismo Leaf Concept sporty EV get folks excited about our electric future? Let us know below.