The Z Lealia is a unique concept that blends the thrill of a sports car with the practicality of a family vehicle. Envisioned as a "sports station wagon for family journeys," the project was created by fourth-year students in the Auto Maintenance and Customization Department at Nissan's Kyoto Automobile Technical College. These students set out with a specific goal: to build a car for fathers who love sports cars but also want to enjoy family time. The Z Lealia is designed for those who aspire to own a Fairlady Z but need a vehicle that can accommodate the demands of everyday family life. The name “Lealia” combines the English word "lead" with the Latin word "familia," reflecting the car's mission to lead the way in both performance and family functionality.
Built on the M35 Stagea platform, the Z Lealia underwent a full redesign during a six-month production period. The students worked tirelessly to reshape the car, cutting and welding parts of the rear fender and roof to fit the rear section of a Nissan LEAF. To enhance the car's sporty appearance, the rear fenders were widened, giving the Z Lealia the muscular stance that mirrors the iconic Fairlady Z. The bold ‘Ikazuchi Yellow’ body color further ties the Z Lealia to the Fairlady Z, making it a striking and memorable creation.
The Z Lealia is a testament to the creativity and ambition of the students, demonstrating how the spirit of sports car performance can be blended with the needs of a family vehicle. It stands as a symbol of how Nissan’s design philosophy can evolve and adapt to new generations, bringing excitement and practicality together in an innovative way.