The energy density of the battery cells in the first leaf was the same as the chevy bolt today (to close approximation). The cost just got cheaper so they could add more.
The weight means cornering isn’t great. The vehicle only weighs 3133 lbs and ~ 800lbs of that is battery.
So, if you want something sportier with decent range, then you have to build something more efficient. I think battery weights have improved a bit since it was built, but not by much.
What I said about “sportiness” doesn’t apply to 0-60 mph times, but those are already uncomfortably brutal in high-end EVs. Show me how it performs on a winding road!
I have to wonder if HN existed back in the early 1900s this discussion would be about how driving a car could never match the depth of the bond between horse and rider.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tesla_Roadster_(first_genera...
Weight: 2877 lbs Range: 244 mi
I agree putting the biggest battery you can in a car isn’t the right approach. It would be nice if people could experience an EV with a range like yours to calm their nerves.