We saw the new Nissan Leaf a short while back, but we’re just now getting more details, and they could make the all-new EV a compelling buy. Nissan gave the third-generation Leaf a 40-percent range boost, striking new styling, and a far nicer interior than its predecessor.
The updated Leaf will offer up to 303 miles of range, thanks to a host of aerodynamic and technical improvements. It features a 0.26 drag coefficient in the U.S., and Nissan updated the battery thermal management system to better harvest waste heat and improve regeneration in cold weather. The system also utilizes navigation data to optimize battery heating and cooling, and all new Leafs (Leaves?) leave the factory with a Tesla North American Charging Standard (NACS) connector.
A 52-kWh battery is the default, which supports one electric motor with 175 horsepower and around 255 pound-feet of torque. The larger 75-kWh battery option supports a powertrain with 214 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. Nissan says the battery preconditioning improvements and new tech have reduced charging times, with the new Leaf charging from 10 to 80 percent in just 35 minutes in a DC fast charger.
Inside, dual 12.3-inch infotainment screens come standard, but higher trims will offer two 14.3-inch displays. A Bose audio system with headrest-integrated speakers will be available, along with a panoramic roof with push-button dimming.
Nissan plans to build the new Leaf in Japan and at its facility in England. Pricing and exact release dates aren’t available at this time.
[Images: Nissan]
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