By Phesheya Mkhonta
The launch of Eswatini’s first electric car, the Nissan LEAF was a moment to behold, but in the same vein left emaSwati with several questions.
The electric vehicle was presented by the United Nations Development Programme Eswatini (UNDP) to the country during the inaugural Eswatini Energy Indaba.
The Indaba was organized by SNG Grant Thornton in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism & Environmental Affairs, the United Nations Development Programme (UNPD Eswatini), Eswatini Stock Exchange, Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA), the Central Bank of Eswatini, among several government and private sector entities.
The compact EV hatch boasts zero emissions, is 100% electric and has already earned numerous prestigious awards.
The Nissan LEAF car was first introduced to the world at the end of 2010, going on sale in the United States and Japan.
Key Things to Know
1. How long does the battery take to charge?
The Nissan LEAF battery takes approximately 7 hours to charge from empty to full.
2. How often do I need to charge the battery?
The battery can be charged at any time and need not be completely drained.
3. Can I control the battery’s charging time?
Yes, the charge time can be set on EV’s dash or remotely via a mobile device or computer.
4. How much power and torque do you get from the battery?
110 kW of power and 320 Nm of torque.
5. How far can you travel on one full charge?
An average distance of up to 270km can be driven on a fully charged battery.
6. What is the Nissan LEAF’s top speed?
The Nissan LEAF’s top speed is 145km/h.
7. How much will it cost to charge?
An average driver can expect to see only a moderate bump in his/her electricity account from charging a Nissan LEAF.
The Nissan LEAF Engine
· Power: PS 150
· Start push button w/intelligent key
· Tyre pressure monitoring system Standard (TPMS)
· Suspension, front MacPherson strut
· Suspension, rear Twist beam axle
· Maximum Torque: (Nm) 320 Energy type: Electric
· Battery: 40 kWh
· Transmission: Automatic