Nissan PH busts EV myths ahead of Leaf debut

MANILA: As the country is seemingly preparing for a significant shift in the automobile industry to electrified mobility, Nissan is set to introduce the much-anticipated full electric vehicle Nissan Leaf into the Philippine market.

Ahead of the Leaf's local launch before yearend, Nissan Philippines does a bit of myth-busting by revealing what it says are the top four EV misconceptions, and debunking them.

Myth #1: Electric vehicles are slow.

The first misconception that most people think about EVs is that they are slow compared to regular internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. But a recent test proved otherwise.

The Nissan Leaf was allowed to race against natural elements such as wind and fire, and the well-known EV won with an acceleration time of 7.9 seconds from zero to 100kph.

With fewer moving parts and an efficient electric motor, the EV speeds up more rapidly compared to a vehicle with a conventional engine.

With more than 70 years of EV experience, Nissan has developed an e-powertrain that brings electric power directly to the wheels for immediate acceleration. This enables the Nissan Leaf to be faster once the engine is started for a more responsive and seamless driving experience.

Myth #2: EVs have limited range.

Contrary to some concerns, the Nissan Leaf can muster 311 kilometers on a fully charged battery. Be aware aware that the average daily drive around NCR is 13.2 km. So, most definitely, Leaf owners can travel around the metro for a maximum of three weeks without the need for recharging. For those who want to go to Baguio City (246.6 km from Metro Manila), the Nissan Leaf is a reliable vehicle that can make the trip.

Furthermore, the e-pedal of the Nissan Leaf puts together the advancement, thrill, and convenience in EV technology.

The advanced feature allows car owners to drive with one foot pedal, enabling them to brake and accelerate depending on foot pressure.

What is more spectacular with the Nissan Leaf is that the e-pedal is a component of a state-of-the-art regenerative braking system, which means that the vehicle has the ability to regain a bit of charge every time the driver brakes.

Myth #3: EVs can only be charged at a charging station.

The third misconception is that charging EVs can only be accomplished at a fast-charging station.

Although the country has about 14 charging stations at the moment that are set for the Nissan Leaf, EV owners can choose to charge in their homes for more convenience.

Comparable to charging one’s mobile phone after using it for one whole day, the Nissan Leaf can be plugged into a standard electrical socket for overnight charging.

The use of a universal charging cable typically takes around 12 to 15 hours for complete charging of the Nissan Leaf. For quicker charging, customers have the option of adding an exclusive wall box to accelerate the charging period to about five to seven hours.

Myth #4: EVs are boring.

The last misconception about EVs is that they don't bring the excitement. But with the Nissan Leaf, the prospects of a thrilling, entertaining, and safe driving experience are limitless thanks to its engine that generates zero emissions and no sound while on the road.

Through a heart-stopping demonstration, the Nissan Leaf was able to exhibit how the mass-produced EV can conveniently generate optimum torque and force, while providing nearly silent burnouts.

Managing Director and President for Nissan in the Philippines Atsushi Najima explained, “Nissan is a world leader in electric mobility. We are constantly challenging mobility conventions including now — taking the top four myths about EVs, and busting them with our award-winning Nissan Leaf. We’ll never stop daring the impossible. We look forward to bringing the Nissan Leaf in the Philippines as a legendary vehicle that has been continuously refined since its first introduction in 2010. Helping to bring an inspiring, innovative and human-centric future for the Philippines.”

Photo from Nissan

Also read: Nissan PH: Leaf still scheduled to make debut in 2020