We never thought we’d see the day we’d talk about Nissan and Ferrari EVs in the same article, yet here we are. Shortly after the Luce broke cover earlier this week, people began drawing parallels between the design of Ferrari’s first electric car and the third-generation Leaf.
Sure, the color is similar, and if you squint, there is a passing resemblance in the overall shape. However, a closer look at just about any part of the Luce will tell you it has practically nothing in common with the Leaf. Nevertheless, Nissan took notice of the comparisons being made to Maranello’s controversial EV and decided to lean into it.
The company's Irish division took to social media to showcase the two cars together, and as you can imagine, the comment section erupted. Nissan claimed it was “flattered” that people saw Leaf design traits in the Luce, even if, let’s be honest, they look vastly different.
But they didn't stop there. Nissan even left a direct message for Ferrari:
'They say imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, so thank you Ferrari. Nissan. Always a smart choice.'
Automakers rarely poke at each other online, and few expected Nissan to take a jab at Ferrari of all competitors. It remains to be seen whether Maranello will offer a response.
Motor1's Take: We have a feeling Nissan Ireland’s post on Facebook and Instagram won’t remain online for long. Then again, there’s really no reason for Ferrari to be upset, as it’s just a harmless joke to drive social media engagement. After all, the Leaf and the Luce are hardly direct rivals.
The electric Prancing Horse kicks off at €550,000 in Italy, whereas the Leaf starts at just under €41,000, making the Ferrari roughly 13.5 times more expensive. Let's be real: no one is cross-shopping a Ferrari with a Nissan, regardless of the models. The only vehicle that could ever pose a serious threat to the Italians is the GT-R, but sadly, Godzilla won’t be returning anytime soon.
