Today Nissan announced that production of the 2013 LEAF had begun in Smyrna, TN.  And in so doing released many of the details and specifications on the new EV.

2013 Nissan LEAF Dash

A full (and insanely detailed) listing of all the changes are below, but Nissan does highlight some of the finer points of the car for us.

  • Improved energy efficiency* due to improved aerodynamics, wider range of regenerative braking for increased energy recapture and improved energy management
  • Expected range improvement (pending 2013 EPA testing)
  • Addition of a new, lower priced base LEAF S grade
  • An array of feature enhancements for the LEAF SL grade, including leather-appointed seating and 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels
  • Three new option packages, with available Around View® Monitor and Bose® energy efficient audio system
  • New available 6.6 kW onboard charger that reduces 220V charging time nearly in half to approximately four hours for a full charge
  • Re-Configured (more room) Rear Hatch Area Of 2013 Nissan LEAF

    New available hybrid heater system that provides superior cold weather performance while consuming less energy

  • New available "B" drive mode that increases regenerative braking during deceleration
  • New charge port door light and lock, with new intelligent key charge port door release button
  • Enhanced interior features, including leather-wrapped heated steering wheel, new black interior color and sun visor extensions
  • Smarter packaging, with onboard charger relocated to the front of the vehicle to create more rear cargo space
  • EV-IT improvements, with "Eco route" feature added to navigation system - plus Google® local search, Pandora® link for iPhone® and iPod® cover art
  • State of charge percentage added to the trip computer for more accurate energy monitoring
  • Two new exterior colors (7 total): Metallic Slate and Glacier White

    You Asked For It - Exact Battery State Of Charge Heads-Up Display
Nissan says that pricing and new EPA range data will be released "be announced closer the vehicle's on-sale date", but more than likely what they really mean, is that they are saving that for the big North American debut at the NAIAS next week.

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"The refinements and enhancements for 2013 hit at the core of customer requests during LEAF's first two years – available features providing quicker charging, improved range expectations and the ability to fine-tune the equipment levels to exact owner needs, whether they desire fewer standard features for an even more affordable car or more luxury amenities like leather-appointed seating and premium audio." - Nissan Division Vice President and General Manager Al Castignetti

All the specs you ever want to know (except of course for the two main things-price and range):
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