Nissan Leaf launched in Malaysia at KLIMS13
After a year-long pilot programme of fact finding and awareness building, Edaran Tan Chong Motor (ETCM) has officially launched the all-electric Nissan Leaf in Malaysia at the Kuala Lumpur International Motor Show 2013 (KLIMS13), which opens its doors to the public today at the Putra World Trade Centre (PWTC).
Joining the Leaf in making its debut at the Nissan pavilion is the Nismo Performance Package upgrade for the Nissan Almera, which can now be ordered by customers for their brand new Almeras or retrofitted into existing units. The package is developed by Nissan Motorsports (Nismo) in Japan at the specific request of ETCM, and parts are manufactured locally, with vendors audited by Nismo representatives in the process.
Customers interested in the Nismo upgrade for the Almera have a choice between two packages, starting off with the Aero Package at RM8,000 which buys a set of 16″ Nismo alloy rims and an aerodynamically functional bodykit package (said to improve downforce by 36%) consisting of front and rear bumper spoilers, side skirts, and trunk lid spoiler. The more comprehensive RM13,000 Performance Package includes the above and adds a sports muffler and uprated Nismo suspension for sportier handling characteristics. The package currently does not include upgrades for the engine and brakes.
Other displays by Nissan include the updated Grand Livina, Navara, and also the Nissan Note, shown as an exploratory model under consideration for future introduction in Malaysia. Built on the same V platform of the Almera, the Note is available worldwide in 1.2- and 1.5-litre engines from the HR family. It is positioned as a compact B-segment MPV.
Priced at RM168,800 with insurance, the Nissan Leaf is officially available for purchase in Malaysia at selected Nissan outlets. The purchase price includes installation costs of the the vehicle’s dedicated charging point at the premises of the buyer. For buyers staying in apartments or condominiums, relevant procedures in obtaining permission from the respective building managements apply.
The Leaf being introduced in Malaysia is an updated version of the original model launched internationally in 2010. Its overall range has been lengthened by 20% with charging time shortened by 50%. Nissan quotes a maximum cruising range of 195km, a figure obtained by testing under the New European Driving Cycle, which we must point out is carried out with air-conditioning switched off – a driving scenario unlikely to happen too often in Malaysian climate.
Powering the Leaf is a 107hp/254Nm AC synchronous motor backed by a 360V 24kWh lithium ion battery with 48 cell modules. Having subjected the battery to a range of physical stress testes, including crash, high temperature, and high voltage, Nissan is confident of the battery’s long-term physical durability. According to Nissan, fully charging the depleted battery requires four hours. Ancillary systems are powered by a regular 12V battery, which is charged by the vehicle on the move and also through a dedicated solar panel mounted on the spoiler.
Nissan’s booth (number 1B03) in KLIMS13 is situated at Tun Razak Hall 1, together with sister brand Infiniti. Other attractions in Tun Razak Hall 1 include the booths of Honda, Subaru, and Isuzu.
