In a recent survey celebrating its 90th anniversary, Nissan has found its iconic Leaf electric car cruising comfortably among the most impactful transport innovations of the past nine decades. As the world’s first mass-market EV, the Leaf secured a coveted spot at number 19 on the list, reflecting its role in ushering in a cleaner and more sustainable future for driving.
The survey, conducted by OnePoll on behalf of Nissan, polled 2,000 UK adults and revealed a fascinating cross-section of groundbreaking advancements that have shaped the way we travel. From the supersonic majesty of Concorde to the everyday convenience of satnav, the list highlights the transformative power of innovation in transport.
But the future looks particularly electric, with the survey revealing that 69% believe new technologies will play a key role in reducing the environmental impact of UK transportation. And guess what? Electric vehicles topped the charts as the innovation with the most promise for sustainable mobility, showcasing the growing public acceptance and excitement surrounding EVs.
It’s not just about the planet, though. The survey also delves into the human impact of transport innovations, finding that 70% believe they’ve positively affected their lives. Easier travel, improved commutes, and stronger connections with loved ones are just some of the benefits people have experienced, thanks to advancements like the Leaf’s zero-emission driving.
For Nissan, this recognition is a testament to its unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of automotive technology. From the Tama electric car of 1947 to the futuristic Hyper Punk and Hyper Urban concepts, Nissan has consistently dared to dream big and deliver practical solutions for a cleaner, safer, and more inclusive world.
As Andrew Humberstone, Managing Director of Nissan GB, aptly states, “We’re so proud of this pioneering spirit and the people who make up our incredible global team at Nissan – I look forward to sharing more automotive design, technology and driving excitement with our customers in the future.”
The survey’s findings are a clear message: the future of transport is electric, and Nissan is at the forefront of the charge. With its commitment to innovation and its dedication to sustainability, Nissan is poised to continue electrifying our lives for generations to come.
So, buckle up and get ready for the ride! The next 90 years of transport promise to be even more thrilling, and Nissan is sure to be at the heart of it all.
The full list is as follows:
TRANSPORT INNOVATIONS OF THE LAST 90 YEARS
- 1976 – Concorde makes first passenger-carrying supersonic flight
- 1957 – First flight of a commercial jet airliner
- 1994 – The opening of the channel tunnel
- 1958 – First commercial jet airliner
- 1981 – Maiden flight of the space shuttle
- 1960 – Launch of the first Sat Nav
- 1951 – Creation of power steering
- 1988 – First airbag
- 1934 – Introduction of the Driving Test
- 1955 – Creation of the Hovercraft
- 1959 – The first three-point seat belt
- 2022 – First zero-emissions electric flight takes place
- 1939 – First practical helicopter built
- 1949 – First zebra crossing
- 1971 – The Lunar Roving vehicle is used on the moon
- 1964 – Launch of the Bullet Train
- 1939 – Creation of automatic transmission
- 1967 – Automatic Train Operation: London Underground
- 2010 – Launch of the world’s first mass-produced electric car
- 1984 – Driverless Cars
- 1953 – First air conditioning in a car
- 2022 – First railway line run by hydrogen-powered trains
- 1971 – ABS technology first used on a car
- 1940 – First electric bus delivered
- 2003 – First automatic parking
- 2016 – First hydrogen-powered flight
- 1984 – First car with a CD player
- 2001 – First hands-free Bluetooth kit
- 2018 – First driverless trams tested
- 1958 – Creation of cruise control
