- Responsive, quiet electric motors
- Comfortable ride
- Low weight distribution makes for competent dynamics
- Modern interior design
- Limited range
- Driving experience requires familiarisation
- Significant depreciation
Overview
Released in June 2012, the Nissan Leaf was a five-door, electric-powered hatchback. Manufactured in Japan, the front-wheel drive Leaf was powered by an electric synchronous motor which drew power from a 24 kWh lithium-ion battery pack and was mated to a single speed, direct drive transmission. The battery packs were positioned under the floor at the centre of the chassis and, in addition to the main battery, the Leaf had a 12-volt lead-acid battery to power the vehicle’s computer systems and accessories.
Under the NEDC (New European Driving Cycle) testing regime, the Leaf was estimated to have a range of 170 kilometres, though the US EPA calculated a range of 117 km. Under Nissan’s testing, the Leaf’s minimum and maximum ranges were 76 kilometres and 222 kilometres, respectively. The Leaf could be charged via a standard (240 Volt, 10-amp) power outlet in about eight hours. However, a 15-amp ‘Level Two’ charging outlet – requiring installation by an electrician – could reduce this time to approximately 6.5 hours. Furthermore, each Leaf dealership was fitted with a ‘Level Three’ charging station with a 400 Volt fast charger that could provide up to 80 per cent of charge in around 30 minutes.
The Leaf was fitted with an ‘eco-indicator’ which provided real-time information on the driver’s electricity consumption and estimated range. When there was less than 4 kWh of charge (approximately 15 km) remaining, visual and aural warnings would alert the driver, while the navigation system would display nearby charging stations.
To minimise fuel consumption, the Leaf was also fitted with a regenerative braking system which used the electric motor as a generator to recharge the battery when the vehicle was coasting or braking. Furthermore, the driver could engage an ‘eco’ mode that reduced motor power and air conditioning outputs and the Leaf’s rear spoiler had a solar panel which could recharge the battery.
The Leaf was 4440 mm long, 1770 mm wide, 1549 mm tall and had a 2700 mm long wheelbase. Furthermore, the Leaf was fitted with MacPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear axle.
| Motor | Trans. | Peak power | Peak torque | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Leaf | Electric synchronous motor | 1sp direct drive | 80 kW at 2730-9800 rpm | 280 Nm at 0-2730 rpm |
Safety equipment
Standard safety equipment for the Leaf included dual front airbags, front side airbags, full-length curtain airbags (i.e. for front and rear occupants), ABS, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist, electronic stability control, traction control and front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.
The Leaf was also fitted with an ‘Approaching Vehicle Sound for Pedestrians’ system which was active when the Leaf was travelling at less than 40 km/h.
Euro NCAP testing
In Euro NCAP testing , the Leaf received a five star safety rating which included an 89 per cent adult occupant protection rating and an 83 per cent child occupant protection rating. In the frontal offset impact test, the stiff centre console and structures surrounding the steering column posed a risk of injury to the knees and femurs; chest protection for the driver was rated as adequate, though thigh protection was rated as marginal. Maximum points were awarded in the side impact test, though chest protection was rated as adequate in the more severe pole test.
Features
Standard features for the Leaf included 16-inch five-spoke alloy wheels with P205/55 R16 Bridgestone Ecopia tyres, a six speaker sound system with a CD player, MP3-compatibility, auxiliary inputs (3.5 mm/USB/iPod) and Bluetooth audio streaming, satellite navigation, climate control air conditioning, cruise control, front fog lights, automatic headlights, Bluetooth mobile phone connectivity, 60/40 split and folding rear seats, a heated steering wheel with audio controls, remote central locking with proximity key, power windows and mirrors, a tilt adjustable steering wheel, a height adjustable driver’s seat, trip computer and an immobiliser.
Brochure
Related links
- Specifications: Nissan Leaf (June 2012)
- Nissan News: Nissan Leaf Now $39,990* Drive-Away (May 2013)
- Nissan Australia: Nissan Leaf
- Wikipedia.org: Nissan Leaf
