As the world celebrates the dynamic debut of the all-new Nissan Leaf, Edaran Tan Chong Motor (ETCM) wasted no time to announce that the second-generation electric vehicle (EV) will be making its way to Malaysia come 2018!
ETCM had the first-generation Leaf on sale since 2013, but its steep RM180k price tag was difficult to justify its 135 km driving range. Nevertheless, it was a bold and commendable feat from ETCM to offer Malaysians the option for affordable zero-emission driving.
This all-new Leaf however, will set a new benchmark for EVs with an updated e-powertrain, larger battery capacity and semi-autonomous driving capabilities. It now packs 147 hp and 320 Nm with a theoretical driving range of 378 km. With almost three times the driving range, the new Leaf can now be a viable daily commute alternative compared to the outgoing model.
Visually, the Leaf is a sporty and edgy looking thing while boasting a commendable drag coefficient of 0.28. Inside, the new Leaf gets a significantly more modern interior along with Nissan’s ProPILOT semi-autonomous driving and ProPILOT Park auto parking feature.
Japan will begin deliveries of the all-new Nissan Leaf in October 2017 while North America and Europe will receive their Leaf early next year. For ETCM to promise a 2018 market launch is indeed a commendable feat. However, the bigger question is: will ETCM be able to take advantage of the locally assembled hybrid tax incentive offered by the Malaysian Government? If so, we are looking at a real winner here.
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