Introduction
Last week, we traveled to Tenerife, Spain, with Nissan Middle East to attend the international launch of the Nissan Leaf. My visit to Spain was truly an amazing experience; I enjoyed the warm hospitality of the locals, the delicious food, and the breathtaking scenery.
Availability of the 2018 Nissan Leaf
Undoubtedly, the 2018 Nissan Leaf will reach local markets, but we do not yet know when or how much it will cost. It seems that Nissan is not keen to share this information. However, we estimate it will arrive in the UAE either at the end of this year or the beginning of 2019. According to Nissan, they need more time to adapt the car to meet the needs of the Middle East market. In the worst-case scenario, it will launch at Expo 2020, as Nissan is the official partner.
My Opinion on Nissan
I want to share my opinion with Nissan: You have a very strong product, so why the wait when there are other electric cars available, such as the Renault Zoe and Chevrolet Bolt (read the article here)? Plus, there’s Tesla with the "Model 3." Will the second generation continue this impressive success after the modifications?
Expected Price
It’s also important to know how much the new Nissan Leaf will cost. People are interested in electric cars because they should be affordable. Savings on fuel, maintenance services, free parking, and not paying the Salik toll (which costs 50 AED) are all reasons that drive people to purchase electric vehicles. Based on its price in Europe, which is around 32,000 euros, we estimate the 2018 Nissan Leaf will cost approximately 140,000 AED if our predictions are accurate.
My Experience in Spain
I loved sharing some of the stunning views I encountered during my trip to Spain. When we drove on the highest mountains in Tenerife, I stopped to take a fantastic picture. I felt like I was above the clouds, and I hope to tell my grandchildren in 35 years that I literally held the clouds in my hands.
Exterior Design
Exterior Design:
The design of the new Nissan Leaf showcases a less obvious electric vehicle appearance and is clearly more attractive than the previous generation. While it resembles a gasoline-powered car, some hints indicate its electric nature, such as the absence of a front grille and exhaust pipes.
Interior Design
Interior Design:
The 2018 Nissan Leaf comfortably seats five adults with a trunk space of 435 liters, which is a good size for a hatchback. It’s impressive to know the distance the car can travel with a load of 415 kg.
Power and Performance
Power:
The 2018 Nissan Leaf comes equipped with a 40 kWh battery, making it a strong competitor against the Renault Zoe and Chevrolet Bolt. The electric motor of the Leaf generates 150 horsepower and 320 Nm of torque.
Technology
Technology:
Here are the three key points:
- Pro Pilot: Enhanced adaptive cruise control + lane-keeping assist.
- e-Pedal: A single pedal for acceleration and braking.
- Self-parking: The Nissan Leaf offers a self-parking feature.
Charging Process
Charging Options:
You will have three different charging options:
- Using a standard household electrical outlet (21 hours for a full charge).
- Using public charging stations (7.5 hours for a full charge).
- Using a fast charger (80% in 40 minutes to an hour).
Conclusion
Nissan needed to take this step and produce a new generation of the Nissan Leaf, but we need to see how well this car will adapt in the UAE. If the price is right, it will undoubtedly be a preferred choice for many.
Related Links
You may also be interested in Important Information for Those Looking to Purchase an Electric Car.
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