The Nissan LEAF is the first all-electric vehicle to be built on a large scale by a major automaker. Unlike the Chevrolet Volt or Toyota Prius, the LEAF runs on electric power only, with four doors and room for five. Three trim levels are available: the S, the SV and up-market SL.
Motivation for each comes in the form of a 107-hp 80kW AC electric motor powered by a lithium-ion battery pack. Nissan claims this combination allows for a 100-mile range between charges, which can be done via either a 110-volt or 220-volt household outlet. At 110 volts, a complete recharge takes around 20 hours, while a 220-volt outlet achieves a full battery in just 8 hours. The LEAF comes only with a single-speed transmission that is said to function transparently, much like a conventional automatic.
A total of 48 battery packs are located centrally in the chassis, which helps provide a good balance and decent handling. Torque from the electric motor is always instantly available, so the LEAF is no slouch; Nissan compares its performance to that of a similar car fitted with a 2.5L gasoline engine. City streets with stop-and-go driving are where the LEAF is most at home, although it's capable of 90 mph -- albeit at a significantly decreased range. Braking is achieved via standard 4-wheel power assisted disc brakes, which are also regenerative, providing power back into the system.
On the outside, the LEAF features unique styling and "Zero Emissions" markings, as well as special aerodynamic underbody panels and diffusers to help reduce parasitic drag. Inside, the LEAF features a 6-way adjustable driver's seat and a 4-way passenger's seat, both of which are adjusted manually. In keeping with the LEAF's green cred, the seats are made of partially recycled fabric.
Safety features include those that might be expected on any small car on the market today. Anti-lock brakes, traction control and an anti-skid system are all part of the package, as well as dual-stage front side airbags and curtain side airbags.
The LEAF S is the most basic trim level but still comes with electric windows and door locks, a push-button start with Intelligent Key, automatic temperature control, RearView Monitor and a 3.6kW onboard charger.
Both the SV and SL come with navigation. The SL features a Bluetooth hands-free phone system, cruise control with steering wheel-mounted controls and a 6.6kW onboard charger. SL models add fog lights, a roof-mounted solar panel to charge batteries that run accessory items, automatic headlights and an available "quick charge" port that can bring the batteries to 80% charge in just 30 minutes. Nissan's CARWINGS system allows remote connection into the LEAF's computer via cell phone, which can monitor charging status, start a charge and even activate heating and air conditioning systems to prepare for an upcoming drive.
A Premium Package is available on SV and SL models. It includes Nissan's Around View Monitor system and a 7-speaker Bose stereo.
All-electric Powertrain, 100-mile Nominal Range On An 8-hour Charge, Driving Characteristics Of A Conventionally Powered Car
There are only a few changes to the LEAF in 2015. A hands-free text messaging assistant is available on SV and SL trimmed cars, while the SV trim also gets a new set of 17-inch wheels as standard. A "B-Mode" which concentrates on generating extra battery power from the brakes, is now standard across all trims, while a new color has also been added.
Nissan has broken new ground with the LEAF, which is the company's first all-electric subcompact. Unlike the Tesla roadster or smart electric, this electric car has room for five. Additionally, the LEAF is manufactured on a much more massive scale than any other fully electric car available. With an MSRP of $29,010, the LEAF offers pure, practical, full-electric driving in a more affordable package than the nearest competitor, the Chevrolet Volt, which stickers at over $34,000.
