The 2012 Nissan LEAF™, the world’s first affordable, zero-emission car, continues in its second year of production to lead the drive into the “no gas, no tailpipe” zero-emission era. Designed specifically for a lithium-ion battery-powered chassis, the Nissan LEAF is a medium-size hatchback that comfortably seats five adults and has a range of 100 miles (U.S. LA4 cycle) on one full charge to satisfy real-world consumer requirements.
Enhancements for the 2012 model year include the addition of a standard battery heater, heated steering wheel, heated front and rear seats, heated outside mirrors and rear HVAC duct on all models. Also, a Quick Charge Port is now standard on the LEAF SL.
Best-in-Class MPG Equivalency Rating, Numerous First Year Awards
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has rated the Nissan LEAF as "best" in the mid-size vehicle class for fuel efficiency and "best" for the environment with a 99 miles-per-gallon (MPG) equivalency rating (combined city/highway), along with a rating of 106 MPG city and 92 MPG highway.
The MPG equivalency rating was developed by the EPA as a way to provide a standard so consumers can compare vehicles across the spectrum and make an educated purchase. The calculation is based on the EPA's formula of 33.7kW-hrs being equivalent to one gallon gasoline energy based on five cycle tests using varying driving conditions and climate controls. The vehicle was also rated best-in-class for the environment based on emitting zero greenhouse gases or other traditional tailpipe emissions.
Nissan LEAF was also named “2011 World Car of the Year,” edging out the BMW 5-Series and the Audi A8 for the top spot. The award is just one of a string of accolades for the vehicle, which was also named “2011 European Car of the Year.”
In addition, Nissan LEAF's 100-percent electric, zero-emission drive system is included on Ward’s Auto World magazine’s prestigious “10 Best Engines” list for 2011. It is the first time in the 17-year history of the magazine's “10 Best Engines'” that the selection committee has chosen a power system which doesn't have an engine and will never burn a drop of gasoline.
Nissan LEAF was also chosen as one of the 2011's “10 most transformative products” by a panel of experts in addition to members of the Popular Mechanics magazine's editorial board of advisers.
“Transformative is a great word when describing Nissan LEAF. Consumers do not want to compromise on space, driving enjoyment or technology features, regardless of a vehicle’s power source,” said Al Castignetti, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division, Nissan North America, Inc. (NNA). “We’ve developed the Nissan LEAF to offer stimulating acceleration performance and a quiet, refined interior with the latest amenities and room for five adults while still carrying cargo – all in a vehicle that is totally electric, produces zero carbon emissions while driving and has 100 miles of range.”