New Leaf launched

The new Nissan Leaf has its official world premiere today.

Nissan says the Leaf has been completely reinvented, combining greater range with a dynamic new design and advanced technologies.

It goes on sale in Japan on October 2, and the model is slated for deliveries in January 2018 in the US, Canada and Europe.

It’s price in Japan starts at 3.15 million yen (NZ$40,005).

“The improved range (400km), combined with the evolution of autonomous drive technology such as ProPilot Park, and the simple operation of the e-Pedal, strengthens Nissan’s EV leadership as well as the expansion of EVs globally,” company president and chief executive officer Hiroto Saikawa says. “It also has core strengths that will be embodied by future Nissan models.”

The new e-powertrain provides 110kW of power output and 320Nm of torque, improving acceleration.

Nissan will also offer a version with more power and longer range at a higher price in 2018.

ProPilot autonomous drive technology can be used during single-lane highway driving. When activated, it also takes control of steering, acceleration, braking, shift-changing and the parking brake to automatically guide the car into a parking spot.

The e-Pedal lets drivers start, accelerate, decelerate and stop by increasing or decreasing the pressure applied to the accelerator. When the accelerator is fully released, regenerative and friction brakes are applied automatically, bringing the car to a stop. The car holds its position, even on steep uphill slopes, until the accelerator is pressed again.

It has a low, sleek profile, providing a sharp, dynamic look along with excellent aerodynamics.

Familiar Nissan design features include the signature boomerang-shaped lamps and V-motion flow in the front. The flash-surface grille in clear blue and the rear bumper’s blue moulding identify the car as a Nissan EV.

A redesigned cabin focuses on the driver, featuring a front panel in the form of a “gliding wing”, combining best use of space with functionality.

Vibrant blue stitching in the seats, dashboard and steering wheel have been incorporated as a symbol of Nissan’s EVs. The 7-inch, full-colour (TFT) display has been redesigned to highlight key features, such as the Safety Shield technology power gauge and audio and navigation system information. Apple CarPlay has also been added.