JNCAP gives Nissan Leaf a 5-star safety rating

KUALA LUMPUR: Expected to arrive at this year’s Kuala Lumpur International Motor Show, the second-generation Nissan Leaf has grabbed a 5-star safety rating. The Japan New Car Assessment Program released the safety rating; where the Nissan electric car was put through a series of tests. Here’s a small glimpse of Nissan Leaf report card as released by JNCAP -

Nissan Leaf also passed the Electric Shock Test with flying colours, an important one for an electric car. It assists how efficient and abled an electric vehicle is to protect the passengers from an electric shock at the time of an accident.

On researching a bit about Leaf, we found out that the car houses a high-voltage cut off system and a strong battery case that helps in avoiding shock during a collision. Further, Nissan has given Leaf a body structure and layout that ensures an appropriate distance between the passengers and high-voltage parts.

As for the active safety features, Nissan Leaf’s spec sheet reads as follows - seat belts with pre-tensioners, enforced back farm and headrest in all seats, load-limiting capabilities present at the front and rear outboard seating position (near the door) and six airbags.

Talking about new Leaf's performance profile, it too has received a commendable update like the safety segment. The electric motor is now turned to produce 38% more power (149 PS) and 26% more torque (320 Nm). Talking of performance, Nissan has replaced the 24 kWh lithium-ion battery with a 40 kWh option that has increased the car’s operating range from 195 km to 378 km.

As for the Malaysian market, we are not sure about its pricing and whether or not it will be a CKD model. What however is sure is its auto show arrival with a series of pre-sale events that'll help us know the new Leaf better.