Nissan LEAF

Nissan has unveiled its first Zero Emission production vehicle, called LEAF. The all-electric medium-size hatchback will feature a lithium-ion battery-powered chassis, will reach a range of more than 160km and will be launched worldwide in late 2010.

The car is powered by laminated compact lithium-ion batteries, which generate power output of over 90kW, while its electric motor delivers 80kW/280Nm.

Also thanks to the regenerative braking system the car can deliver a driving range of more than 160km (100 miles) on one full charge.

The battery can be charged up to 80% of its full capacity in justunder 30 minutes with a quick charger. Charging at home through a 200V outlet is estimated to take approximately eight hours.

The model is expected for launch in late 2010 in Japan, the United States, and Europe.

Masato INOUE (Product Chief Designer) said: ”Our car had to be the world’s first, medium-size, practical EV that motorists could afford and would want to use every day. And that’s what we’ve created.

The styling will identify not only Nissan LEAF but also the owner as a participant in the new era of zero-emission mobility.”

Additional information is available on the Nissan Zero-Emission website.

(Car Body Design news)