A day spent with the 3rd generation Nissan LEAF.

Since we were there anyway, we decided to take some time to enjoy Hakone. The group exited at the Gotemba Interchange and headed toward the Lake Ashi Skyline. As we climbed in elevation, the view opened up and the winding road began. With every turn of the steering wheel, the stability unique to a low-center-of-gravity EV was clearly felt through the road surface.

Mountain roads often require frequent use of engine braking. By using the e-Pedal Step feature, which allows you to control your speed with just the accelerator pedal, my speed naturally stabilized even as I approached corners. By the way, e-Pedal Step is a system that automatically applies stronger regenerative braking when you release the accelerator pedal. By slowly easing off the accelerator instead of releasing it completely, you can decelerate smoothly. This allows you to drive with a sensation similar to one-pedal operation. The strength of the regenerative braking can also be adjusted using the “+–” paddles behind the steering wheel (when e-Pedal Step is OFF). This is a fun system for those who want a more manual “feel” to the controls.

“To be honest, I didn’t really notice the mountain roads at all. In a way, I think that’s a good thing. It means I was able to drive without any stress,” said Mr. Yasushima.

The phrase “I could drive without a care” is a straightforward compliment on this car’s handling. The mountains of Hakone—which are unlike both highways and regular roads—brought out this car’s third personality.

After passing through the Lake Ashi Skyline, we arrived at the Kozuri area. In stark contrast to the bustling tourist atmosphere on the Motohakone side, the north shore of the lake has a peaceful, serene atmosphere. After walking just a short distance along the promenade, the signs of people faded away, and as far as the eye could see, there was nothing but the water, the mountains, and the sky.

Here, Mr. Yasushima decided to explore the area with his camera. Before him lay the dazzling light reflecting off the lake’s surface, the mountain ridges stretching into the distance, and the Luminastar Turquoise of the new Nissan Leaf.

"I thought the exterior had a neutral design. It’s not too masculine, nor is it too cute. That’s why it appeals to anyone. If you can pull it off with style, it has the potential to be a really cool car. Plus, while simple colors like gray or silver tend to be the popular choices, this color really stands out beautifully when driving on mountain roads. It was perfect for the photoshoot, too.”

Photographers, who usually see the world through their subjects, became the subjects themselves on this day. That’s precisely why the perspectives they offer feel so fresh.

For lunch, we headed to "China House," a restaurant located in Sengokuhara. It’s a Chinese restaurant nestled quietly in the heart of Hakone. As he bit into the restaurant’s signature gyoza, Mr. Yasushima reflected on his morning run.

"I tend to get carsick on mountain roads, so I'm the type who likes to take the wheel myself. Today, I didn't feel like I was going to get sick even once."

Even though he usually feels a little uneasy about taking long drives in his everyday car, he can keep driving this one without a second thought. That’s the kind of potential this car has.