Nissan has unveiled the first step in its zero-emissions future
Due for launch late next year, the LEAF will be assembled first at Nissan's plant in Oppama, Japan and the the company also plans manufacturing at its North American production facility in Smyrna, Tennessee.
Nissan says the LEAF is a 'C-Segment' vehicle which means it's around the same size as a Volkswagen Golf.
Nissan Australia intends to bring the LEAF to market here as soon as possible but can't confirm an exact date as production schedules in Japan have not been finalized.
The company has signed an agreement with the Victorian Government to jointly investigate infrastructure requirements for electric vehicles and is also in discussion with other Governments.
Capacity to manufacture the high-tech lithium-ion batteries remains tight and is another factor that needs clarification before Nissan Australia can advance local plans for the LEAF. Currently Nissan is manufacturing the batteries at a plant in Zama, Japan and is exploring investment in other battery manufacturing facilities in North America, England and Portugal.
Slated for market introduction late next year in Japan, North America and Europe, Nissan has not announced pricing but points out that as electric cars are much less complex that petrol or diesel-powered vehicles, running and servicing costs will be less - meaning the LEAF will be friendly to the environment and owners' wallets.
The LEAF's electric motor has an output of around 90kW and delivers some 80kW/280Nm to the driven wheels.
Its compact lithium-ion batteries and regenerative braking give the LEAF a range in excess of 160kms between re-charges. Nissan says this is enough to satisfy the daily driving requirements of 70 per cent of the world's motorists.
While a full charge plugged-in at home would take eight hours, the LEAF comes with a quick-charger enabling an 80 per cent re-charge in under 30 minutes.
Styling is distinctive with a sharp, upright 'V' when viewed from the front which highlights the angled LED headlights (they consume 50 per cent less electricity than normal headlights). The shape and positioning of the headlights is intentional - they split and redirect airflow away from the door mirrors for a more slippery aerodynamic shape and reduced wind noise.
The aqua exterior colour and blue interior lighting is intentional - its Nissan's 'Blue Earth' colour scheme.
Inside, the LEAF has an advanced IT system connected to a global data center providing support, entertainment and information for drivers 24/7.The dash-mounted monitor displays remaining power or 'reachable area' and a selection of nearby recharging stations.
When the LEAF is parked and 'powered down' owners can use their mobile phone to set charging functions and even turn on the air-conditioning. An on-board remote-controlled timer can be pre-programmed to recharge batteries at specific times allowing owners to take advantage of off-peak electricity rates.
For most families, the LEAF will be a perfectly viable vehicle - either the primary car or a second car.
