2011 Nissan Leaf Review

Overview

The 2011 Nissan LEAF is world's first zero-emission medium-size practical electric vehicle (EV) that comfortably seats five passengers and has a range of more than 160 km (100 miles). The Nissan LEAF purifies mobility by taking emissions out of the driving experience like leaves purify the air in nature. Thus it ushers in a new era of mobility - the zero-emission era.

Power and performance

The new Nissan LEAF has a sophisticated Electric Vehicle-Intelligent System (EV-IT) system that supports full-time electric driving. It is based on an all-new EV platform that features a highly rigid body, high-performance motor, compact lithium-ion battery with high power output and energy capacity. The LEAF derives power from laminated compact lithium-ion batteries rated at over 90kW and its electric motor pumps out 107 hp (80kW) and 280 Nm of torque. This unique powertrain provides a highly responsive, fun-to-drive experience that is on par with the traditional, gasoline-powered cars. Unlike internal-combustion engine (ICE) equipped vehicles, Nissan LEAF's power train has no tail pipe, and thus there is no emission of CO2 or other greenhouse gases. Charging the batteries is easy and convenient. The LEAF can be charged up to 80% of its full capacity within 30 minutes with a quick charger. At home, it can be charged through a 200V for approximately eight hours - sufficient time to enable an overnight refresh for consumer and car alike.

Body and styling

The LEAF employs a completely new chassis and body layout to ensure comfort, spaciousness and cargo capacity. It has less mechanical complexity than a traditional gasoline-powered car and is designed to be more wallet and environment friendly. Sharp, upright V-shaped design featuring long, up-slanting light-emitting diode (LED) headlights make a new style statement and are designed split and redirect airflow away from the door mirrors, thus reducing wind noise and drag. The headlights consume less electricity than conventional tail lamps. The interior is spacious and the cargo area is deep. The bright trims colors have created a soothing and sophisticated cabin. Premium audio and Nissan Navigation Systems are the highlights of this model. An exclusive advanced IT system connected to a global data center provides support, information, and entertainment for drivers 24 hours a day. One more state-of-the-art features is the ability to use mobile phones to turn on air-conditioning and set charging functions - even when Nissan LEAF is powered down. An on-board remote-controlled timer can also be pre-programmed to recharge batteries.

Safety Features

Like all Nissan models, the 2011 Nissan LEAF comes with a long list of safety features. It is equipped with standard Nissan Advanced Air Bag System (AABS) which includes dual-stage front supplemental air bags, seat belt sensors and an occupant classification sensor that enhance protection coverage for the driver and passengers. Further, the front-seat active head restraints, 3-point rear seat belts for all seating positions and front seat belts with pretensioners provide additional safety. Advanced technologies like Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) and Traction Control System (TCS) in the LEAF help to the driver to remain confident and in control when the driving conditions change. During hard braking, the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) rapidly pumps the brakes to help prepare wheels from locking and also help to maintain steering control. The Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) detects additional weight and sends added brake force to the rear wheels. Through all these sophisticated safety features, Nissan has left no stone unturned to ensure that LEAF is completely safe for everyday use.