One of the first commercially available electric vehicles has been reinvented and relaunched as Nissan pours 15 years of experience in the technology into its new Leaf.
The third-generation electric vehicle also benefits from the insights gained through global sales of nearly 700,000 units.
Nissan is aiming to make it a compelling alternative for internal combustion engine buyers with its substantially increased maximum range, enhanced charging speed and a technology suite that makes daily driving easier and enriches owners’ lifestyles.
Models slated for the US for later this year now have a maximum range of 487 km ith the 75 kWh battery with fast charging able to replenish 10-80 per cent of the charge in 35 minutes.
The Australian launch date is yet to be announced.
Nissan President and CEO Ivan Espinosa says the Nissan LEAF is a reflection of the companies commitment to innovation and sustainability.
“The original LEAF helped popularize electric vehicles, and this third generation invites consumers to embrace an EV lifestyle with a range of compelling features. It plays an important role in our Re:Nissan action plan, offering impressive performance, stylish design, and advanced technology.”
“The all-new LEAF embodies Nissan’s Timeless Japanese Futurism design with a distinctive Japanese aesthetic conveyed in a simple yet powerfully modern way.”
Specifications
It offers a 0.26 drag coefficient for U.S. and Japan models, and an even more impressive 0.25 for European variants.2
The all-new, 3-in-1 EV powertrain with an integrated motor, inverter and reducer is 10% smaller than its predecessor and features Nissan’s unique motor control, which enhances refinement.
The new motor, paired with a new, high-rigidity motor-mount bracket, supports a 75-percent reduction in motor vibration compared to the outgoing model.
For select regions, newly available Intelligent Distance Control Assist helps intuitively maintain a set distance from the vehicle in front while driving in city traffic and also optimizes regenerative braking.
Some models are powered by batteries with 52 kWh of usable capacity, supporting an output of 130 kW and 345 Nm of torque. Larger 75 kWh batteries are also available, providing 160 kW and 355 Nm of torque.
An enhanced thermal recovery and management system harvests heat created by the onboard charger (OBC) to warm up the battery, increasing its regeneration potential in cold weather.
The all-new LEAF is available with two liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery options, both of which offer thermal conditioning functionality.