In August 2009, Nissan announced the new LEAF, an electric vehicle, also known as an EV. The Nissan LEAF is a 100 percent electric, zero-emission, five-passenger hatchback, designed for the 2010 mass consumer market in the United States, Japan and Europe, and to be globally marketed in 2012, according to the Nissan website. Without an engine, LEAF owners have the added benefit of being free from engine noise.
Battery/Range
The Nissan LEAF stores power in a laminated, compact lithium-ion battery pack -- located under the floor -- making the LEAF one of the first to use this advanced battery technology. Lithium-ion batteries offer more powerful acceleration with a range of about 100 miles, which is better than the comparably-sized nickel-metal hydride batteries. Batteries can be charged at home in four to eight hours with a specially made 220-volt charger. Commercial quick-charge stations can do the charge in 30 minutes. Energy efficiency of the LEAF is 99 mpg in combined city and highway driving, according to the Edmunds.com website.
Drive Powertrain
The front motor, front drive powertrain has no tail pipe and therefore, does not release emission into the environment. The 24 kWh lithion-ion battery feeds the 80-kilowatt, high-response synchronous electric motor, and provides a 107 horsepower output with 207 foot-pounds of torque.
Safety/Braking System
Safety features include front side airbags, side curtain airbags and stability and traction controls. Maximum speed of the LEAF is 86 mph. Anti-lock brakes are a standard feature on the LEAF.
Exterior Size
Exterior size of the LEAF measures 175 inches in length, 69.7 inches in width, 61 inches in height, with a wheelbase of 106.3 inches. Maximum seating capacity in the LEAF is for five people.
Trim Levels
The 2011 LEAF is available in two different trim levels offering many standard features. The SV level has standard equipment which includes upholstery made with recycled materials, a navigation system, long upslanting LED headlamps, a keyless ignition and entry, cruise control, 16-inch alloy wheels, automatic climate control, adjustable driver seat, tilt-only steering and 60/40 split folding rear seats. The SL level offers a spoiler-mounted solar panel and rear-view camera, according to Edmunds.com.
IT System
Also standard is the LEAF's zero-emission, exclusive IT system connected to a global data center. The IT system offers round-the-clock support, entertainment and information. Monitor displays on the dash show remaining electrical power and locations of nearby charging stations. Cell phones can be used to set charging functions and turn on air-conditioning. Battery recharging can be preprogrammed with an on-board remote control timer, according to Nissan.
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