Nissan updates Leaf electric car for 2018

The 2018 version of the Nissan Leaf includes many updates and has undergone its first major overhaul since the car was launched in 2010, Jones Junction said on its blog.

The Leaf is the top-selling electric car globally, the posting said, but it still doesn't top the charts in the United States, yet. 

The new Leaf may change that with its more sleek and modern  look and a grille-style embellishment over the charging ports, the blog said.

The NissanConnect EV App allows you to use a smartphone to check for a charging station, charge the Leaf for a specific amount of time, start the heat or air conditioning or even get traffic updates, the posting said.

When fully charged, the newest Leaf is estimated to have a 150-mile range. To charge it, plug it into a standard outlet for 16 hours for a full charge, or use 240-volt Level 2 chargers to cut that time in half. A DC fast charger can charge it in 30 minutes, offering an 88-mile range, the posting said.

In the past year, Nissan added safety features such as Intelligent Rear View Mirror and Around View Monitor systems.

The 2018 version also has features such as Nissan ProPILOT Assist which can accelerate and maintain speed for the driver. Intelligent lane intervention helps the vehicle stay in its lane, while an all-around view feature helps alert the driver to potential obstructions or vehicles that may otherwise go unnoticed, the posting said.