2014 Nissan Leaf debuts in Geneva with an improved range

Nissan Leaf has arrived and it has a longer range, is more practical, better to drive and has even more equipment.

Since its launch in 2011, more than 50,000 examples have found homes and the world’s best-selling pure electric vehicle has been built solely in Japan. But production of the new model will soon commence at Nissan’s Sunderland production facility with more than 100 changes made to the car.

Improvements include an extended driving range, greater recyclability, more interior space, better charging performance, more equipment and, with three versions now available, greater choice. Subtle styling changes to the nose of the car have improved its aerodynamic efficiency.

Now assembled together as a single stack, the new powertrain is again based around a high-response 80kW AC synchronous motor powered by Nissan-designed 48-module compact lithium-ion batteries, mounted underneath the cabin area to lower the centre of gravity for optimum handling.

By moving the charger from the rear of the Leaf to under the bonnet, it has been possible to increase the luggage area by as much as 40 litres. Overall boot capacity has increased to a massive 370 litres.

New Leaf’s real-world driving range has also been improved by the only visual change to the car: a subtly revised front grille helps reduce the aerodynamic drag coefficient Cd figure from an already 0.29 to 0.28. The new Leaf’s driving range is certified at 124miles (200km), which is an increase from 109 miles (175 km) in the prior model.

Reduced charging time is also promised by a new option that will cut the conventional charging length in half, from eight to four hours. A new 6.6kW on board charger will permit the use of 32 amp charging using the latest generation of chargers installed in domestic and commercial properties. A typical domestic socket delivers 10 amps.