Nissan brings zero-emission mobility to South Africa
THE Nissan LEAF, which has been available to customers in South Africa since late last year, was the world’s first mass-produced electric vehicle (EV).
Having sold over 100 000 units since being introduced late in 2010, it ranks as the biggest-selling electric vehicle worldwide, having captured a 45 per cent share of the global EV market. It is available to customers in 35 countries on four continents and even topped sales charts in Norway in October 2013, out-selling all other conventional fuel-powered vehicles. The LEAF is well on its way to proving that zero-emission mobility is not a dream but a reality. It represents driving the future, today, which is no better illustrated by the numerous accolades it has amassed thus far, including the 2011 European Car of the Year, 2011-2012 Japanese Car of the Year and 2011 World Car of the Year titles.
For eco-conscious South Africans, the LEAF, which is electrically powered, means no more visits to the fuel station and no more CO2 tailpipe emissions. It is certain to change the way motorists think about driving.
“Nissan is the first manufacturer to retail an EV in South Africa and after meticulous planning and strategic pilot programmes involving Eskom, the Technology Innovation Agency and Department of Environmental Affairs, we believe the Nissan LEAF is reaching the eco-conscious South African consumer at the right time,” says Ross Garvie, Nissan South Africa’s chief marketing manager for Electric Vehicles and New Technology. “We are already seeing that EV mobility is being positively received in the South African market.”
The fully electric drivetrain, which features a 24 kWh lithium-ion battery pack linked to a front-mounted 80 kW electric motor, allows for smooth and silent driving. A punchy 254 N.m of torque is available the moment the throttle pedal is depressed. This gives the LEAF very good responsiveness and lively performance. However, a switchable eco-driving mode is available as standard and reduces throttle sensitivity and mimics the driving characteristics of conventional vehicles while also encouraging economical driving habits to maximise the batteries’ driving range.
Efficiency is further enhanced by way of an aerodynamically-sculpted body that exhibits special features like LED head- and taillights for efficient energy use at night, regenerative braking, eco-friendly tyres with low rolling resistance, as well as a roof spoiler with integrated solar panel. This feeds the conventional 12 V battery with solar power in order to minimise the impact of ancillary systems on the main battery pack – like the audio system.
From the outside, the LEAF has attention-grabbing and unmistakable styling. It boasts a high, flowing shoulder line with curvy lines at the front and rear. The LEAF is available in seven body colours: grey, silver, red, blue, white, pearl white and black.
Despite its attractive exterior and all the zero-emissions technology crammed into it, the car remains 100% practical. The interior is as spacious as that of a conventional hatchback, offering seating for five and luggage capacity that ranges from 370 dm3 (with the tonneau cover in place) to 720 dm3 when the 60:40-split rear seatbacks are folded flat.
Standard comfort features include electrically operated front and rear windows, electrically operated side mirrors, climate control, heated leather seats front and rear, an AM/FM audio system including a CD-player, MP3, iPod, USB and aux-in with steering mounted controls (to operate the audio system, standard Bluetooth, and on-board computer), and a seven-inch WVGA colour touch-screen display.
Safety and security features include six airbags (dual front, side and curtain), ventilated discs all-round, along with ABS with EBD and Brake Assist, hill-start assist, vehicle dynamic control, ISOFIX child seat preparation, central locking and remote keyless entry and start. It also features VSP (vehicle sound for pedestrians), with an off switch, as well as a rear-view camera with predictive path control.
The Nissan LEAF is available through specific Nissan dealers in Gauteng and comes with a three-year/90 000 km service plan including roadside assistance and three-year/100 000 km parts and mechanical warranty. Service intervals are every 15 000 km.
Cape Town and Durban-based EV dealers will join the sales network later in 2014.
