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Image credits: © Nissan.

MSRP: $35,200-37,250
Invoice: $33,707-35,665

2012 Nissan LEAF news, pictures, and information

Now entering its second year of production, the 2012 Nissan LEAF™ is again leading the drive into the 'no gas, no tailpipe' zero-emission era. Designed specifically for a lithium-ion battery-powered chassis, Nissan LEAF is a medium-size hatchback that seats five adults comfortably and has a range of 100 miles (Ú.S. LA4 cycle) on one full charge to satisfy real-world consumer requirements.

Nissan LEAF was named '2011 World Car of the Year,' edging out the BMW 5-Series and the Audi A8 for the top spot. The award is just one of a string of accolades for the vehicle, which was also named '2011 European Car of the Year.'

Enhancements for the 2012 model year include the addition of a standard battery heater, heated §teering wheel, heated front and rear seats, heated outside mirrors and rear HVAC duct on all models. Also, a Quick Charge Port is now standard on the LEAF SL.

The Nissan LEAF is powered by a lithium-ion battery composed of 48 compact modules and a high-response 80kW AC synchronous motor that generates 107 horsepower and 207 lb-ft of torque, providing a highly responsive, fun-to-drive experience that is in keeping wîth what consumers have come to expect from traditional, gasoline-powered vehicles. Únlike internal-combustion engine-equipped vehicles, LEAF's powertrain has no tailpipe and thus no emission of CO2 or other greenhouse gases while being driven.

The Nissan LEAF can be charged up to 80 percent of its full capacity in 30 minutes when equipped wîth a quick charge port and using a DC fast charger. Charging at home through a 220V outlet is estimated to take approximately seven hours. The advanced lithium-ion battery pack carries an -competitive warranty of 8 years or 100,000 miles.

The Nissan LEAF's distinctive exterior styling is characterized by sharp, upright V-shaped design featuring long, up-slanting LED headlights wîth a blue internal reflective appearance. The headlights split and redirect airflow away from the door mirrors, reducing wind noise and drag. The headlights consume about 50 percent of the electricity of conventional halogen headlights.

The exterior also utilizes a standard rear spoiler, flat underbody wîth rear diffuser and aerodynamically shaped LED taillights. The charging port is hidden under a small door located in the front of the vehicle. The 5-door hatchback design also features chrome door handles, aerodynamic outside mirrors and a large greenhouse to provide a bright interior environment. Attractive 5-spoke 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels mounted wîth P205/55R16 Bridgestone Ecopia tires are standard.

Five exterior colors are available for 2012: Glacier Pearl, Blue Ocean, Brilliant Silver, Super Black and Cayenne Red.

Nissan LEAF drivers are able to use web-enabled mobile phones to turn on air conditioning and set charging functions remotely, even when the vehicle is powered down. An on-board remote-controlled timer can also be programmed to start the charging event.

The digital instrument panel includes a speedometer, battery temperature gauge, power meter, remaining energy gauge, capacity level gauge, distance to empty display and Eco indicator. The standard monitor also displays 'reachable area,' as well as showing a selection of nearby charging stations. A Nissan Navigation System, XM® Satellite Radio (XM® subscription required, sold separately) and Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System are standard. A RearView Monitor and HomeLink® Úniversal Transceiver are standard on LEAF SL models.

Nissan LEAF has earned a 5-star overall vehicle rating for safety as part of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's New Car Assessment Program (NCAP). It is the first fully electric vehicle to earn this highest distinction from the program. Starting wîth 2011 models, NHTSA introduced tougher tests and requirements in order to earn 5-star ratings. Nissan LEAF has also been named a 'Top Safety Pick' by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Nissan LEAF safety systems include six air bags, 4-wheel Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS), Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) and Traction Control System (TCS).

The 2012 Nissan LEAF is offered in two well-equipped models, the LEAF SV and LEAF SL. The LEAF SL includes a photovoltaic solar panel spoiler that supports charging of the 12-volt battery for car accessories, fog lights, auto on/off headlights, RearView Monitor, HomeLink® Úniversal Transceiver, cargo cover and Quick Charge Port.

Source - Nissan

Nissan Leaf Becomes First Electric Car Available for Order in All U.S. Markets

Beginning tomorrow, drivers across the country will have their first opportunity to order their Nissan LEAF, as Nissan North America Inc. (NNA) expands availability for all Ú.S. markets, nationwide.

This new launch phase means residents of 21 new states will be able to select and order a 2012 Nissan LEAF. The LEAF, the world's first and only electric car, now also is the only electric car ever to be available nationwide.

'More than 22,000 LEAFs are on the roads globally, having driven more than 30 million miles,' said Brian Carolin, senior vice president, Sales & Marketing, NNA. 'There is no longer any doubt that a 100-percent electric, zero-emissions vehicle fulfills the needs and desires of drivers from around the globe. Nationwide availability of the Nissan LEAF means that now, anyone in the country can opt for a transportation solution that does not harm the environment, provides a pathway to energy independence, and doesn't use a single drop of gas.'

On March 1, reservation holders in the remaining 21 states will receive emails from Nissan inviting them to engage in the Nissan LEAF ordering process. One week later, anyone living in these new markets will have the opportunity to place a reservation and order a Nissan LEAF. Deliveries will start taking place in these new markets by summer.

Source - Nissan

NISSAN EXPANDS LEAF AVAILABILITY INTO NEW U.S. MARKETS

- LEAF launches in Delaware, Indiana, Louisiana, Nevada, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island -

Days before the one-year anniversary of the world's first Nissan LEAF delivery on Dec. 11, Nissan North America Inc. (NNA) expands availability of the all-electric LEAF into new Ú.S. markets. After one year and 20,000 global deliveries, the Nissan LEAF remains the world's first and only all-electric car for the mass market.

Today, Nissan has re-opened reservations and has begun taking orders from the general public for the 2012 Nissan LEAF in Delaware, Indiana, Louisiana, Nevada, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Rhode Island. Deliveries of the LEAF, enriched for the 2012 model year wîth additional standard equipment including quick charging and cold-weather features, will take place in these key markets beginning in spring 2012.

'Nissan LEAFs have been on the Ú.S. roads for one year now, and thousands of drivers have become living proof that a 100-percent electric, zero-emissions vehicle fulfills the daily needs of drivers from all walks of life,' said Brian Carolin, senior vice president, Sales and Marketing, NNA. 'We are seeing already-strong interest in the LEAF continue to grow across the country. This market expansion brings us one step closer to true, nationwide availability.'

With this new wave of availability, Nissan LEAF is now available for order in 30 states, including Washington, D.C. Nationwide, 50-state ordering will be available by March 2012.

Source - Nissan

NISSAN LEAF TO REVERSE INTO THE RECORD BOOKS

•World record attempt planned for Goodwood Festival of Speed
•Nissan LEAF to set Guinness World Speed Record in reverse
•Record underlines car's simple yet robust technology
•Part of huge Nissan presence at the Festival
•Nissan LEAF NISMO RC to set FoS hill record for EVs

ROLLE, Switzerland - In theory, it goes just as fast backwards as it does forwards. And now comes the proof.

At the Goodwood Festival of Speed (June 29 – July 1), the 100% electric Nissan LEAF will attempt to complete the famous 1.16-mile Goodwood hillclimb course as fast as possible... but in reverse, setting a new Guinness World Record for the fastest time over a distance of one mile in reverse.

With direct drive from the electric motor to its wheels, the Nissan LEAF going backwards should be able to hit the same top speed it manages going forwards. With its batteries located under the floor of the car, it has a low center of gravity making the car very stable at speed wîth little body roll under cornering. And wîth fewer moving parts than a conventional car, there's less likelihood of mechanical issues thwarting the attempt.

The attempt is part of Nissan's ambitious social media-driven campaign, The Big Turn On, which is spreading the EV message across Europe. The campaign aims to prove that as well as being environmentally friendly, the Nissan LEAF is safe, economical to run, practical, and fun to drive.

Professional stunt driver Terry Grant will attempt the LEAF Reverse Record. Terry thrilled the crowds at the 2011 Festival of Speed by driving a Nissan JÚKE up the hillclimb course on two wheels.

'The LEAF Reverse Record isn't going to be easy and will be very challenging,' admitted Terry. 'I'd prefer to do it on a nice straight and level strip of tarmac rather than on Lord March's drive. The hill not only climbs, but is also full of twists, turns and obstacles.
'It's a hugely technical test of speed and concentration. But despite the risks, the strength and integrity of Nissan LEAF's design gives me confidence. Whatever happens, I know I'm going to finish the weekend wîth a serious crick in my neck!'

One of the other Nissan stars of the FoS weekend will be the dramatic race-prepared Nissan LEAF NISMO RC. It will be racing against the clock, to set a hill record for electric vehicles. It will be driven by 2011 FIA GT1 Championship winning driver, Michael Krumm, who wowed the huge crowd at this year's Le Mans 24 Hours from behind the wheel of the startling Nissan DeltaWing endurance racing car.

Source - Nissan
For more information and related vehicles, click here

Nissan Maintains Strong European Sales in April
Innovative 100% electric Nissan LEAF sales accelerate Today, Nissan in Europe announced sales of more than 49,000 units in April despite a weakening market in Western Europe. Overall sales were down by 4,700 units compared to a record April 2011, with monthly market share dipping slightly by 0.1% year-on-year to 3.4%. This robust performance was achieved in a market that was down around 5% or 82,000 units against last year, mainly due to overall sluggish demand in some countrie...[Read more...]
NISSAN LEAF EARNS 'TOP SAFETY PICK' FROM IIHS
Now in its third model year, the highly innovative, industry-leading Nissan LEAF pure electric vehicle added another award to its trophy case with the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) 'Top Safety Pick' designation, which recognizes vehicles for excellent performance in four passenger safety tests. The LEAF achieved the Institute's highest rating of 'Good' in front, side, rollover and rear crash tests. Nissan LEAF joins Nissan Altima and Infiniti M37/M56 on the list of 2013 Top Sa...[Read more...]
Nissan, New York City Launch Leaf Electric Vehicle Taxi Pilot
To celebrate Earth Day, Nissan and New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg today launched a new electric vehicle taxi pilot with the world's best-selling electric car, Nissan LEAF. This pilot program, which puts six LEAF taxis into service beginning this spring, will help Nissan, the city, the taxi industry and the public understand how zero emission vehicles can be integrated into future taxi fleets. Joe Castelli, vice president, Nissan Commercial Vehicles said: 'As part of our commitment to z...[Read more...]
BMW I3 CONCEPT COUPE: EUROPEAN PREMIERE PLUS INTELLIGENT RANGE-ENHANCING SOLUTIONS
The BMW i3 Concept Coupe celebrates its European premiere in Geneva, while the BMW i8 Concept Spyder also makes an appearance. These two concept models reflect the current status of the ongoing development process and illustrate the potential breadth of an extended BMW i portfolio. At the same time they show how high-performance, zero-emission mobility is also able to deliver when it comes to emotional excitement and sheer appeal. Both models are built around BMW eDrive technology, which will pr...[Read more...]
NISSAN LEAF NISMO RC (RACING COMPETITION) TAKES ZERO EMISSION STRATEGY TO A NEW DIMENSION - THE RACE TRACK
The name on the back panel, just under the massive adjustable rear wing, says Nissan LEAF. The powertrain is an 100 percent zero emission advanced Lithium-ion battery design, just like that found on the world's first affordable mass market electric vehicle. And despite its lack of rear doors, rear seat, trunk, audio system, navigation, carpeting and other amenities, there is a discernable family resemblance. But that is where the similarities between the production Nissan LEAF and the Nissan...[Read more...]
NISMO Heritage: A History of Maverick Engineering in Motorsports and Attainable Performance
CHICAGO - NISMO. Five letters taken from the words NISsan MOtorsports. Known around the world racing fraternity for nearly 50 years. Passionately embraced by grassroots Datsun and Nissan club racers and electronic race gamers alike. With the addition of the new 2013 Nissan JUKE NISMO model in the United States – joining the potent second-generation 370Z NISMO, the NISMO name is about to become much wider known among the general populace. The launch of JUKE NISMO, and a stable of future...[Read more...]

Arrow Right 2012 Nissan models
Nissan Altima
Nissan Armada
Nissan DeltaWing
Nissan Frontier
Nissan GT-R
Nissan GT-R Nismo GT3
Nissan GT-R Track Pack
Nissan Juke
Nissan Juke Limited edition
Nissan Juke Nismo
Nissan Juke Shiro
Nissan Maxima
Nissan Micra DIG-S
Nissan Murano
Nissan NISMO 370Z
Nissan NV
Nissan NV Graphic Package
Nissan NV3500 HD
Nissan Pathfinder
Nissan Quest
Nissan Rogue
Nissan Sentra
Nissan Sentra SE-R
Nissan Titan
Nissan Versa
Nissan Xterra
2012 Nissan Concepts
Nissan e-NV200 Concept
Nissan Extrem Concept
Nissan Hi-Cross Concept
Nissan INVITATION concept
Nissan Juke Nismo Concept
Nissan March Nismo Concept
Nissan Pathfinder Concept
Nissan PIVO 3 EV Concept
Nissan Sylphy Concept

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Nissan: 2011-2020
Similar Automakers
Nissan History
Other models by Nissan
Manufacturer Website

Nissan
Monthly Sales FiguresVolume
April 201380,003 
March 2013126,623 
February 201390,489 
January 201373,793 
December 201286,663 
November 201284,300 
October 201270,928 
September 201282,462 
August 201287,360 
July 201286,722 
June 201281,801 
May 201281,202 
(More Details)

 
200SX
240
300
370Z
Altima
Armada
Cube
Frontier
Fuga
GT-R
GTP ZX-Turbo
Juke
Leaf
Maxima
Murano
Navara
NV
Pathfinder
Quest
Rogue
Sentra
Silvia
Titan
Versa
X-Trail
Xterra
Z-Car

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