The Nissan Leaf was introduced at the turn of the decade and quickly established itself as one of the world’s top-selling EVs. The second-generation Leaf was introduced in 2017, and 2018 in Malaysia. We drove the second-generation Leaf in 2019 and was quite impressed with its technologies. Of course, Nissan’s development of the Leaf continued, and the upcoming EV will bring new tech to the table.
Nissan has introduced a new 62kWh grade battery to bolster the range and usability of the Leaf. The new power pack increases the range from 311km from the 40kWh battery to 384km from the 62kWh battery. The 62kWh battery also boosts power to 217hp and 340Nm of torque, giving the Leaf a 0-100kph time matching the Mk6 Golf GTI hot hatch 6.9 seconds. Mighty impressive for a zero-emissions compact family hatch.
This 62kWh battery pack is part of the all-new e+ N-Connecta trim, which forms the entry-level into the e+ range. One of the critical techs that Nissan has made available for the entire Leaf range is the ProPILOT Driver Assistance system and ProPILOT Parking Assist.
Previously only available as standard for the Tekna and e+ Tekna trim levels, the ProPILOT system will now be made available as a cost option for all trim levels saves for the base level Acenta level. Another key feature would be the integrated Intelligent Rearview Mirror as standard for range-topping Tekna models. At the same time, N-Connecta trim levels can get it as an option.
Safety has also taken a step-up in the most recent update. The aforementioned Intelligent Rearview Mirror features a built-in LCD monitor in the rearview mirror, displaying images from a high-resolution camera mounted on the vehicle’s rear. Drivers can switch between the LCD monitor and the standard rearview mirror, depending on the driver’s preference. This is similar to Range Rover’s Clear Sight Rearview Mirror, where drivers have an unobstructed view of the rear, especially handy when backing out of parking lots. Blind Spot Intervention system is now made available standard across the entire Leaf range.
The Nissan Leaf has paved the way for many eco-friendly automotive technologies, such as one-pedal driving, regenerative braking and technology to power-up homes are just to name a few. With over half a million units sold worldwide, the Leaf is easily the most recognisable EV, second only to Tesla. While Malaysia is still some way off from embracing Zero Emissions motoring, you can be sure the Nissan Leaf will be at the forefront of the EV revolution IF that day arrives.