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