2013 Nissan Leaf Gets New Electric Drivetrain, Australian Timing Unclear

Nissan has released details of its updated-for-2013 all-electric Leaf hatch, just five months after the current model’s local debut - but two years on from its Japanese launch.

For 2013, the groundbreaking EV picks up a new electric drivetrain and a host of other refinements designed to improve efficiency and driveability.

The new drivetrain integrates the electric motor, inverter and DC/DC converter into a single unit, reducing the overall size of the system by 30 percent and reducing weight by 10 percent.

Production of the new design also reduces use of the rare-earth element dysprosium in its construction by 40 percent.

Efficiency is improved through a revised regenerative brake control system, battery module and heat pump cabin heating.

The 2013 Japanese model also gains a new entry ‘S’ trim level, dropping the entry price by 10 percent beneath the current Japanese ‘X’ model.

A new BOSE Energy Efficient Series sound system is also available, along with Hill Start Assist, revised trim and alloy wheel options.