Why is this particular electric car such a good used car option for the first-time buyer? Let's first find out a bit more about the Leaf, which is sometimes hailed as the first all-electric vehicle that was a global success.
Launched in December 2020, Nissan's all-electric Leaf was the first electric vehicle (EV) available globally. Over half a million of these innovative cars have been sold around the world.
Although it may not be the biggest car on the road, where it lacks in size, the Leaf makes up for it with it an abundance of superior technology. Nissan has managed to produce an electric car that helps contribute to more sustainability for the planet, as well as providing power to homes and businesses alike.
Nissan's key objective with the Leaf was to design and manufacture a car that emitted zero carbon dioxide, without compromising the enjoyment of the driving experience. The first models featured a 24kw/hr lithium-ion battery, which, when fully charged, had a range of 124 miles. This first model was advanced even 10 years ago, allowing its drivers to monitor the car battery charge and to make adjustments to the air conditioning system remotely, simply from using their cellphone. Additionally, this car boasted great acceleration, it handled really well and provided a comfortable drive.
How Did Nissan Beat The Rest Of The World To It?
In order to produce an EV of this caliber, Nissan collaborated with governments and electric power corporations to raise awareness and the need for EVs globally. This kind of strategy group helped develop a sophisticated charging structure, which was vital. When Nissan made the Leaf, they also made history. The Leaf won a series of highly acclaimed awards in the automotive world, a world-first for an electric car.
Nissan's inspirational technology continued to gain pace and a couple of years after the world met the Leaf, Nissan introduced another world first, with the arrival of a system they had developed, which created a power-share option for customers with their cars and homes! They called this system the Vehicle-to-home (V2H) and, quite incredibly, it allowed customers to feed energy stored in the car battery, into their homes. This was an innovative addition and highly beneficial to a Leaf owner. Who wouldn't want to have energy in the house, sourced from a car battery charged at low rates? Sounds like a winner!
But it didn't stop there for Nissan. Quite extraordinarily, they used the Leaf to help during natural disasters when the electricity supply is interrupted or compromised. The Leaf could be utilized as an emergency power supply, while also being able to store energy if required.
Over the years, the electric powertrain has been tweaked, giving the Leaf more power and range. Again, Nissan managed to challenge and develop technology in many areas. They reduced the size of the electric powertrain, which allowed for more luxuries like heated seats and a heated steering wheel. More updates followed over the years, including a new 30kw/hr battery which gave a range of 170 miles, without the loss of interior space or charging time. New safety features were introduced, including Intelligent Emergency Braking, which utilized a front camera to identify hazards like other cars or people.
Making history with the Leaf just once wasn't enough for Nissan so, in 2017, the second-generation model was released boasting new and innovative technology that enhanced fun and efficiency, using an e-Pedal to allow one-pedal driving, and a package called ProPILOT Advanced Driver Assistance. With the introduction of another new electric powertrain, came an altogether more exciting drive. The powertrain came with a new battery which, despite no increase in size, provided more energy and an increased range of 245 miles.
A superior evolution of the Leaf came in 2019 with the LEAFe+, which had a range of 280 miles, which is really quite phenomenal for a car of that size. Again, Nissan managed to make those changes without compromising on interior space or styling. The torque of the Leaf remained, making it a super run and efficient car to own and drive.
So, What Makes This The Best Used EV for New Buyers?
Looking back at the great level of success the LEAF has enjoyed over the last 11 years, it is apparent that there are so many benefits to owning a used model. The LEAF is a good size and would suit a family, which means it has multi-use for families who can't afford multiple vehicles.
Because the LEAF was ahead of its time back in 2010, it means that today, a used model will still be able to offer so much of the innovative technology that we see on current cars. Safety features on the LEAF are an added bonus to a used car with a modern twist. The charging rate of a used vehicle does not differ by much, literally a few cents per mile.
Currently, a new LEAF is one of the most affordable EV's available in today's market. Starting price is $27,400, but a federal tax rebate might also be possible. Depreciation hits the LEAF hard, which actually works well for the used car buyer and as a used car buyer, you will benefit from a tonne of options to choose from.
The LEAF is categorically the perfect used electric car on the market for new buyers. Whatever the age, it arrives into your life with a whole host of mind-blowing technology, ahead of its time.