As promised, the new second-generation Nissan LEAF has just made its global debut. It is set to arrive at Canada’s 97 Nissan dealerships certified for electric vehicles at the beginning of the new year, and will have a starting price of $35,998 – before available government rebates, namely $14,000 in Ontario, $8,000 in Quebec and $5,000 in British Columbia.
“When we launched LEAF in 2010, it instantly became the most affordable, mass market EV in the world. We are not walking away from that proposition,” said José Muñoz, Chief Performance Officer, Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. and Chairman, Nissan North America, Inc. “The value equation for the new LEAF is even stronger than ever before – beginning with a starting MSRP of $35,998. That includes more power, range and technology, all wrapped in a beautiful new exterior and interior design.”
Highly evolved on the technical front and closing in on near-full autonomous-driving capability, thanks notably to the ProPILOT Assist, ProPILOT Park and e-Pedal systems, the new 2018 Nissan LEAF delivers a range of 241 km, and its electric motor is able to generate 147 hp as well as 236 lb-ft of torque. And in fact, a more powerful version with options for more horsepower and larger-capacity batteries will be offered as of 2019; available range will increase to around 400 km.
Standard equipment includes LED headlamps, automatic emergency braking, heated front and rear seats, heated steering wheel and a Level 1/Level 2 (120v/240v) charger cable. In addition, the NissanConnect EV smartphone application will make it easier to find the nearest charging station, recharge the vehicle during low-volume periods (using a timer), get the car to ideal temperature before getting in, receive updated traffic bulletins and more.
As for its design, the 2018 Nissan LEAF has been noticeably upgraded, adopting modernized contours and lines that integrate better with the latest new Nissan products, such as the translucent blue multi-dimensional grille and the distinctive “floating” roof. Seven colour schemes are offered, including a black-and-white combination. Inside, notable features include customizable digital dials and a “floating” display screen.
