The second-generation Nissan Leaf has been unveiled and according to Edaran Tan Chong Motor Sdn Bhd (ETCM), the electric vehicle is set to be launched in Malaysia in 2018.
Headlining the new Leaf is Nissan’s new ProPILOT autonomous drive technology, which can automatically control the distance to the vehicle in front, using a speed preset by the driver (between about 30 km/h and 100 km/h). It can also help the driver steer and keep the vehicle centered in its lane.
If the car in front stops, the system will automatically apply the brakes to bring the vehicle to a full stop if necessary. After coming to a full stop, the vehicle can remain in place even if the driver’s foot is off the brake. If traffic restarts, the car will resume driving when the driver touches the switch again or lightly presses the accelerator to activate ProPILOT.
On the other hand, ProPILOT Park is a fully fledged system that helps drivers park by automatically controlling acceleration, brakes, handling, shift changing and parking brakes to guide the car into a parking spot. The system combines advanced image processing technology using four cameras and information from 12 ultrasonic sensors around the car.
Another innovation that enhances the Leaf’s driving experience is the e-Pedal, offered as standard equipment. It allows the driver the simplicity of starting, accelerating, decelerating, stopping and holding the car by using the accelerator pedal alone.
By simply releasing the accelerator, the car will come to a smooth and complete stop and hold without the need to press the brake pedal. With a deceleration rate of up to 0.2 g, the e-Pedal eliminates the need for drivers to constantly move their foot from the accelerator to the brake pedal to slow down or stop. This helps reduce fatigue and increase enjoyment.
Along with ProPILOT, ProPILOT Park and e-Pedal, the new Nissan LEAF is equipped with a set of advanced safety technologies including Intelligent Lane Intervention, Lane Departure Warning, Intelligent Emergency Braking, Blind Spot Warning, Traffic Sign Recognition, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Intelligent Around View Monitor with moving object detection and Emergency Assist for Pedal Misapplication.
Powering the Leaf is the new e-powertrain, which generates 110 kW, 38% more than the previous mdel. Torque has also been increased 26% to 320 Nm, resulting in improved acceleration. The car’s new lithium-ion battery pack delivers an estimated range of 400 km by Japan standards, which should satisfy the daily driving needs of the majority of the customers.
For customers who want more excitement and performance, Nissan will also offer a version with more power and longer range at a higher price in 2018.
2017 Nissan LEAF specifications (Japan model)
| Exterior | |
| Overall length | 4,480 mm |
| Overall width | 1,790 mm |
| Overall height | 1,540 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,700 mm |
| Track width front/rear | 1,530-1,540 mm/1,545-1,555 mm |
| Minimum ground clearance | 150 mm |
| Coefficient of drag | 0.28 Cd |
| Tires | 205/55R16 or 215/50R17 |
| Cargo area (VDA) | 435 L |
| Weight/capacity | |
| Curb weight | 1,490-1,520 kg |
| Capacity | 5 passengers |
| Gross vehicle weight | 1,765-1,795 kg |
| Battery | |
| Type | Li-ion battery |
| Capacity | 40 kWh |
| Electric motor | |
| Name | EM57 |
| Maximum output | 110 kW (150 ps)/3283~9795 rpm |
| Maximum torque | 320 N･m (32.6 kgf･m)/0~3283 rpm |
| Performance | |
| Cruising range | 400 km (JC08) |
| Charging time (normal charging) | 16 hours (3 kW) |
| Charging time from alert to 80% (quick charging) | 40 minutes |
