2012 Nissan LEAF

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 steering 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 with 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 with 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 industry-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 with 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 with 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 with 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 with 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 with 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 with little body roll under cornering. And with 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 with 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