Good review. I've been driving my 2011 Leaf going on 7 years . This leaf is used for business and replaced a Honda Element, this is the first car I've ever owned that will actually pay for it self since I'm not wasting any money on fuel or maintenance. At 5 yrs I took the Leaf to the dealer for maintenance and they put a new battery in it at no charge because it tested bad and was under warranty, they said the new battery had a 5 year warranty on it so I decided to keep the car and drive it another five years. I saw in the comments that people would remove the A/C out of the car, I live in Florida and use the A/C almost every day when its hot. The daily route I run is usually only 55 miles a day which this car will do easily. The car isn't for everyone, I didn't buy the car to impress anyone so I don't care what it looks like .
You know the Marketing guys at Nissan are drooling over this video of yours. They just can't buy this kind of unsolicited review and the value on the implicit endorsement. I love the practical, real-world review, too. Very well done, Bob & Karen!
All the leaf videos I've watched; your the only one who showed underneath the car. Very well done. Eight years later I'm wondering if you still have it and your feelings on it. Thanks again
that's the best review i have ever see, not only the real experience from real owner, but also the video made, camera placing, speaking style, and tips for the real world operation, fantastic job!!!! Thank you so much! I am going to order one 2019 e plus version, this video helps a loooooooot !!!!!!!!!!
The most professional and well thought out video I've ever seen on you tube. I test drove the leaf and was amazed that it felt and behaved like a conventional car. I believe the batteries will continue to improve, and soon range will double. Nice job on the video.
Very genuine review! Thank you very much! I am Brazilian who works with science and i am happy EVs are getting stronger in the market. Sao Paulo has recently got its first Eletric taxis and the concept is penetrating social dogmas! Thank you very much!
A very informative and well produced video review. This is better than reviews by a lot of so called experts , because you include your actual real world use. I'll check RUclips for any updates to see how your battery held up over the years. Thank you 😊
considering getting an older leaf.. How is it years later? I am guessing if I buy a cheap older one I may have to eventually have the batteries replaced but curious how she held up
As a Leaf owner myself you've both covered this very well. Better than all the Nissan attempts... More people need to look at this car. For the majority of 2 car families it works.
Hi- Yes, we are now facing the winter and we have some strategies for keeping warm. We've seen that down to 38F, we are comfortable in the car during the day with sweaters on. The seat heaters etc. really work well. Daytime, the car has a significant greenhouse effect and stays warm inside by itself if parked in lit areas. If left out in the driveway prior to driving, it warms up well. Since the current batteries don't like temps under freezing, we will use our Prius.You can use a small..NEXT>:
Your wall outlet should at least be 20A. You have a 15A outlet there 16:10. Nissan says you're not suppose to use that charger on a daily basis... probably because of a fire danger. But if you use use it I would upgrade to a 20A circuit or 220V...and please use a metal outlet box and a metal faceplate, preferably protrude 1 feet away from that wood frame there + maybe a wireless smoke alarm too. It appears you have a plastic boxed based on that wobble. You got lots of cool stuff garaged worth protecting.
Awesome video! I recently took purchase of a used 2014 Leaf with only about 24,100 miles on it. I believe it was quite the bargain considering the dealer here in Medford, Oregon sold it to me for $7,000!
The 2014 Nissan Leaf still had all 12 bars and I have gotten anywhere from 72 to 92 miles on the gues mmeter. Now at about 25,300 miles still with 12 bars. Been cold here in Southern Oregon, so I still have yet to experience better overall range. Car works great!
Hey Bob, I leased a 2013 Leaf after seeing your video three years ago. I have since bought the same one. I love it! I have 33000 miles one it and it's going strong. No loss of battery. Do you still have yours and if you do, how about making a new video on driving your Leaf for 4 + years?
Good idea! Now, people can buy a used Leaf for $10K and get a SUPER electric car. The Tesla is even better, but at triple the price for the cheap one. The Leaf makes our Prius feel like a truck.
Bob, I just test drove a Nissan Leaf SL with 33000 miles for 10K! But it is already missing 3 capacity bars. What do you recommend? I have never owned an electric vehicle, Im not sure if that is normal.
Tanner Beverley now pricing from below USD$4000 on autotrader.com though they are probably ones with more severe battery degradation. For those in the US, it’d be hard not to buy as a toy as that’s nearing the price of a new iPhone 📱
Thanks bob, the first car i bought in my life was a Prius and im thinking of switching to a full EV car and this seems the way to go! thanks for all the insight and showing everything in the car.
Yeah, we have the Prius and the Leaf... perfect complement. Problem is, the Leaf makes the Prius fell like a truck. It is SO much more refined and smooth. Enjoy!
My electric bill has gone up by $50 per month. That too because I have opted for a slightly higher electric rate for 100% Wind Power option. I charge my LEAF every night for about 4.5 hours at 240v 13 amps. I drive about 60 miles everyday. My commute alone is 45 miles roundtrip.
Nice review of the Leaf! I am a car salesman for Fred Beans Nissan in Limrick PA and a Leaf Owner. Your video nails the most important features of the car... Nice Job!
I love you guys. Personally I just thing you guys did a much better and detailed "infoview" and infomercial than the professional auto reviewers online. I'm also a Prius owner and looking for an all EV as 2nd car. I think I might just do the same successful formula as you. Thanks much for your insight. Blue Thumb Up!
Portable heater that runs on 115V -using a timer- and pre-heat the inside before you drive in the morning. I can tell you that we expected to be much colder inside even now in late October, but it just isn't so. With the significant glass (and visibility) the car temp stays just right during our daily commutes. In MN., there is no telling!
We just picked up our 2 new Nissan LEAFs from the dealer last Thursday and love them. They are very sleek and like the S model with the Upgraded Charging system. We definitely get looks from people driving around town, especially when we pull up to a traffic light or stop signal. However Bob, I would highly suggest that you only charge your vehicle to 80% and not to 100%. I have a friend who is one of the original EV developers in the USA and he advises against charging to 100% unless absolutely necessary. Charging to 100% will cause premature battery EOL, read about it further on the Nissan LEAF owners blog sites.
The 2013 Leaf is reduced by -$6500 and the range has been expanded. Federal rebate is $7500...so the price should be in the mid to low $20's. Figuring you save $16K in gas the first ten years.... To make enough power to offset the Leaf's use/month -you need about 1400 watts of panels- which cost about $1600 in parts (after tax credit). The panels will work for 30+ years. That will make it cost 1 cent per mile for fuel. If you charge from the wall, it costs $15 a month to do about 800 miles/mo
That high ridge from left to right at the front end of the trunk is not chargers, it's battery related though. Because the battery cells are so heavy, it keeps the body right left-to-right and prevents the battery from collapsing the floor of the passenger compartment. This is also why the front pillars, on either side of the windshield, are so massive -- if the car rolls over, they keep the heavy battery from crushing the passengers. Very safe but a little hard to see around. The heating system uses the same heat pump as the cooling system,which is quite efficient down to outside air temperature of 32F. Below freezing, resistance heating, like a toaster's coils, feed heat into the A/C system at (as you note) a significant cost in range. I have a 2012 SL also and it doesn't't have rear-seat heaters, and I suspect yours does not either. The velour seat covering is pretty comfortable even when the car starts off cold, though.
From what we can see that is a beautifully wooded lot. I guess you have a decently open area somewhere to install the panels? I notice the cute open golfcart-like electric runabout further up the driveway. Are you in Peachtree City, where so much of the city is accessible via golfcart that 10,000+ residents have them?
Great video. Question... Did the DC fast charging port come standard on your vehicle or was it an upgrade you paid for? In your video, you mentioned that you don't use it and opt for conventional charging which takes longer. Thanks !
What do you think of having a Honda generator in the back on long trips. It would say take 2 gallons of gas or so and some time but also peace of mind.
Hi, I am a LEAF Owner from Germany and I love this car - it's the best car I ever had. My solar panels produce enough energy for more than 30.000 miles. The heating system could be improved (nissan will do this with the 2013 version). The last 10 Years I drove a citroen saxo electrique. The LEAF is a quantum leap! Best regards Ralf
I saw there were other charging stations in your area... I don't suppose you have ever had need to use one, but how do they work? I live in Nebraska, and I have never seen an electric car charging station.
I occasionally have to work about 50 miles away…any problem just driving there, charging it there and driving home ? Looks online like there are charging stations.
Great review! I am thinking of purchasing one myself. I live in a major metropolitan area but do drive a quite a bit during the day. Therefore, I do have range anxiety. But I am still so excited to buy one! Thanks for this wonderful review!
Hi Bob Nice video. Thank You. Are you still driving Leaf? I am wondering what's your opinion about this car now after more time spent with it. Is there any issue in your opinion with battery durability? What are your biggest challanges concerning using this car if any?
+Michał Franczyk Sorry for the delay... Yes, we drive it every day... and it is FULL solar powered now... I have panels on the garage. Sure, the weak point is the battery. We were all concerned about cost and longevity. We've lost 7% of the battery capacity in 2 years. But, It started out working about 10% better than advertised, so we are about at the advertised spec now. I know as an engineer that LiPo batteries pull off their peak capacity after about 200 charges and then sit there at slightly less than peak- for their entire life. Then they just die all of the sudden years later. Nissan just announced their new Leaf battery with 25% more power... and that translates into more like 40% more range - because a bigger battery is loafing more..it isn't as stressed. Also, they announced the battery replacement cost - $5500...which is just fine. Being that one battery set replaces 10,000 miles of driving with gas. Four $100 solar panels will produce the power that the Leaf uses each month...forever. We have 18 panels powering the house and car. Only morons who worship the past still grope onto ancient oil technology..."The horse will never die"...but you know what happens if you wish it was the past...you become history.
i think the range is around 120mls per tank? then you have to charge - eiyther quick charge - around 2hrs, or slow charge 8hrs to fill the tank. In the UK many ASDA petrol stations have quick charge points
Detailed and enthusiastic review. But what about the negative side of the car, the things that you didn't like or had problem with? I heard the battery had some problem. Did you have that?
Can this car be driven every day during the winter months in an area with, say, 35-degree average temps? I live in NY and January can be quite cold on average.
Great job guys. I've got a new dream car now, thanks to you. Can you post more videos like one of a long trip, tire wear, passenger capacity, uphill capabilities... Keep it up!
Thanks for the insight (ha!). Great to see how the Leaf works in the real world. Very informative video. No rebates in Australia so the Leaf is AU$46k or ~50% more than Prius so only early adopters with deep pockets over here!
We find that the 110V US standard provided charger is all we need. We never run it dead in one day... and the car is topped-off in the morning when we leave.
True, but you CAN get that energy from solar or wind. By generating that power while you're driving the car, you can come home to a "full tank" of either electricity for a battery electric, or hydrogen for a fuel cell electric, then top it off with a rapid charge or hydrogen refill in under an hour. So even with those losses, either battery or fuel cell electric cars can be operated essentially for free after the initial investment. Pretty slick!
+smilinmikeusa Only charge to 100% if you are going to use it right then. LiPo batteries don't like to sit at 100% charge - or at less than 20%. Set the overnight timer to 80% and do a quick top-off if you have a long-range trip that day. Ideal long-term storage (vacation) is at 50% charge... and LiPo's discharge slowest at 44F. You have about a 1 mile discharge sitting in the garage per day.
smilinmikeusa I'm thinking about buying a 2012 leaf what range can I expect t to get 100miles!? on a full charge or ...unrealistic !? I've heard some get 50 miles
I think for the price they are selling for you can't go wrong. My Leaf has recently lost its third capacity bar giving me a range of about 70 or so miles depending on highway driving, climate control usage, etc. Find a Leaf that hasn't lost too many capacity bars if you can. Also I would definitely have a 220 volt charger installed in your garage. I love mine. They have one that's about four hundred dollars and just plugs right into a 220 volt outlet. One more tip. Look for a 2013 model. They upgraded to a 6 kWh charger in the vehicle and put in a more efficient heater in the 2013 model.
Would this he a good car for a teenager? Ev stations are popping up in my town, would the Nissan leaf be a good choice for a teen going to school, work and around town?
Hi, Thanks for the Review. 4/3/17 I pick up a 2017 SV Leaf and I'm nervous and excited at the same time. I am a Uber/Lyft driver and worried about getting to charging stations. I am going to install one at my house. I am 5 model yrs ahead, do you think they have improved over all? I got the middle version . Thanks for any feedback you can offer. PS I live in Florida and I need AC on the cooler side. Bill M
we bought a used 2013 Leaf S w/23,750 last Friday for $8,500 and I must say I love my new toy. We also own a 2017 Volt and they complement each other pretty well. Yesterday I drove the Leaf for 51 miles running errands with the kids and it still showed 20 miles left on the "guessometer" which could easily been 30 miles from what I have seen so far. Then I switched cars and drove 60 miles round trip on 2017 Volt bc the kids wanted "real fireworks" which I had to buy in Cocoa (we live in Orlando). If you drive (plan) less than 60 miles per day you will have no issues with the car. The AC and heat insulation is even better than the Volt and much roomier interior, etc. I scored a BIG win on Friday.
when your out and about, how many miles would a 30 minute or hour charge give you? like if your at the mall shopping, how many miles would a quick charge give you in the parking lot?
Wow...fantastic video...well done. I recently bought a new Prius C, which I love. I live in the boonies in western MD and one of these actually passed by me a few weeks ago. I too commute exactly 10 miles 1 way to work and do all our shopping within a few miles. If I had to have a second car I'd take a close look at these.
Possibly the best review of Leaf I have found. How does cold weather effect the battery not just the heater. Does the Battery wear down faster ? How about hills? I live in a Nw PA we have a lot of steep hills. I am guessing that it would drain the battery faster. going up hills
Wow, I was watching this video out of interest, and when you mentioned the summer time temperatures, I thought, "That sounds just like Arkansas." And then I saw your map, and it looks like you guys are around Hot Springs, where I'm originally from! I'm shocked that there are electric charging stations in Arkansas. It's super awesome to see forward thinking folks in Arkansas! I recently relocated to Portland, Oregon, in October, and I've been researching electric cars.
Very nice video and review..I just got my Leaf 2013 yesterday.It was just a little hassle at the dealer,they don't know anything about this awesome car,that's very sad,but I do,so I'm happy..if USA dealers finally will educate themselfs,it will be much better ambient to buy leaf..it's just $$$$ nothing else.I encourage people just close your eyes,try to get the best deal,because this car is treasure and it is loaded !! You won't go wrong..
The first "modern" production electric car, Enfield 8000 was actually built 40 years ago on a Greek island!. You can also check the trailer of my documentary on the E8000: A TALE OF TWO ISLES TRAILER
The experiences I read about at mynissanleaf say that in cold weather you'll have a slightly shorter range, but when warm weather returns, the battery will recover and be back to normal. I'm in Florida, so can't speak to the issue of hills :)
I drive my LEAF in below freezing temps without issues. I am careful to charge when the batteries themselves are not below freezing. Even when its in the teens outside, my garage is in the 40's and ideal for overnight charging.
It's great that these cars offer an alternative to gas which is very expensive. My concern with this car and all new cars in general is that I would suspect the computer screens don't last very long and are costly to replace.
+Ethan Bradberry There are always anti-elec. car people on RUclips. Leon is one. They feel it is their duty to support the fossil fuel industry. You see, our young boys & girls in the military died for our right to mid-east oil. Our biggest employer is the military industrial / anti-terrorism industry. We literally would economically collapse without ISIS. To use less oil - is to work against America's economic model. We build them up (create ISIS) then we blow them up- then we re-build them. Sound like an exaggeration? Here is ME being thanked for the weapons Reagan gave the Islamic terrorists in Afghanistan. ruclips.net/video/6bR-v6dj-IM/видео.html
This is probably the best review I've watched on a Leaf. I learned quite a bit. Thank you! :)
+Wen Agbulos This is the best review I've see on any product tbh. thanks guys
I probanly missed, how fast does it go
Mile Jukic 0to 60 in 2.5 seconds😬
Good review. I've been driving my 2011 Leaf going on 7 years . This leaf is used for business and replaced a Honda Element, this is the first car I've ever owned that will actually pay for it self since I'm not wasting any money on fuel or maintenance. At 5 yrs I took the Leaf to the dealer for maintenance and they put a new battery in it at no charge because it tested bad and was under warranty, they said the new battery had a 5 year warranty on it so I decided to keep the car and drive it another five years. I saw in the comments that people would remove the A/C out of the car, I live in Florida and use the A/C almost every day when its hot. The daily route I run is usually only 55 miles a day which this car will do easily. The car isn't for everyone, I didn't buy the car to impress anyone so I don't care what it looks like .
Hi bob and Karen, any chance of an update on ownership of the leaf over the years?
What an excellent review. Professional, and helpful, thank you!
This is the best nissan leaf review I have ever seen. Especially if I have never had a car. Great job!
You know the Marketing guys at Nissan are drooling over this video of yours. They just can't buy this kind of unsolicited review and the value on the implicit endorsement. I love the practical, real-world review, too. Very well done, Bob & Karen!
All the leaf videos I've watched; your the only one who showed underneath the car.
Very well done. Eight years later I'm wondering if you still have it and your feelings on it.
Thanks again
that's the best review i have ever see, not only the real experience from real owner, but also the video made, camera placing, speaking style, and tips for the real world operation, fantastic job!!!! Thank you so much! I am going to order one 2019 e plus version, this video helps a loooooooot !!!!!!!!!!
Excellent review. A real owners viewpoint instead of an advertisement is golden.
This is, (hopefully) gonna be my first car! :) Great review Bob!
The most professional and well thought out video I've ever seen on you tube. I test drove the leaf and was amazed that it felt and behaved like a conventional car. I believe the batteries will continue to improve, and soon range will double. Nice job on the video.
I like the fact how quiet it is inside the moving car.
Leaf is definitely a good name for this car.
Very genuine review! Thank you very much! I am Brazilian who works with science and i am happy EVs are getting stronger in the market. Sao Paulo has recently got its first Eletric taxis and the concept is penetrating social dogmas! Thank you very much!
A very informative and well produced video review. This is better than reviews by a lot of so called experts , because you include your actual real world use. I'll check RUclips for any updates to see how your battery held up over the years.
Thank you 😊
considering getting an older leaf.. How is it years later? I am guessing if I buy a cheap older one I may have to eventually have the batteries replaced but curious how she held up
good review..... pleasant couple......thanks for posting this.....have a great day
All I can say is WOW. You you covered everything and this the best review on RUclips.
Even after 7 years this video is extremely helpful
Just test drove one at the weekend. I was blown away by the smoothness. I've had big Jaguars and even they weren't this smooth.
As a Leaf owner myself you've both covered this very well. Better than all the Nissan attempts... More people need to look at this car. For the majority of 2 car families it works.
Hi- Yes, we are now facing the winter and we have some strategies for keeping warm.
We've seen that down to 38F, we are comfortable in the car during the day with sweaters on. The seat heaters etc. really work well. Daytime, the car has a significant greenhouse effect and stays warm inside by itself if parked in lit areas. If left out in the driveway prior to driving, it warms up well. Since the current batteries don't like temps under freezing, we will use our Prius.You can use a small..NEXT>:
You guys were way ahead of the curve. Here 5 years later and the world is electrifying.
Your wall outlet should at least be 20A. You have a 15A outlet there 16:10. Nissan says you're not suppose to use that charger on a daily basis... probably because of a fire danger. But if you use use it I would upgrade to a 20A circuit or 220V...and please use a metal outlet box and a metal faceplate, preferably protrude 1 feet away from that wood frame there + maybe a wireless smoke alarm too. It appears you have a plastic boxed based on that wobble. You got lots of cool stuff garaged worth protecting.
There was a fire on the outlet from that charger please use an all metal outlet box away form that wood. 16:10
Good to know thank you. I was concerned about that
Awesome video! I recently took purchase of a used 2014 Leaf with only about 24,100 miles on it. I believe it was quite the bargain considering the dealer here in Medford, Oregon sold it to me for $7,000!
Did the battery have much degradation? (ie. what is the max it will charge to?) Cheers
The 2014 Nissan Leaf still had all 12 bars and I have gotten anywhere from 72 to 92 miles on the gues mmeter. Now at about 25,300 miles still with 12 bars. Been cold here in Southern Oregon, so I still have yet to experience better overall range. Car works great!
Jackson Bangs Great! Congrats on the bargain!
Hey Bob,
I leased a 2013 Leaf after seeing your video three years ago. I have since bought the same one. I love it! I have 33000 miles one it and it's going strong. No loss of battery. Do you still have yours and if you do, how about making a new video on driving your Leaf for 4 + years?
Good idea! Now, people can buy a used Leaf for $10K and get a SUPER electric car. The Tesla is even better, but at triple the price for the cheap one. The Leaf makes our Prius feel like a truck.
Bob, I just test drove a Nissan Leaf SL with 33000 miles for 10K! But it is already missing 3 capacity bars. What do you recommend? I have never owned an electric vehicle, Im not sure if that is normal.
Buy it her $8k
Now down to between 6 and 9k lol, shopping around, any warnings or things to look out for?
Tanner Beverley now pricing from below USD$4000 on autotrader.com though they are probably ones with more severe battery degradation. For those in the US, it’d be hard not to buy as a toy as that’s nearing the price of a new iPhone 📱
Thanks bob, the first car i bought in my life was a Prius and im thinking of switching to a full EV car and this seems the way to go! thanks for all the insight and showing everything in the car.
Yeah, we have the Prius and the Leaf... perfect complement. Problem is, the Leaf makes the Prius fell like a truck. It is SO much more refined and smooth. Enjoy!
Bob Nagy so the leaf is that smooth and quiet??
I like the idea for the solar panels. Any ideas on where I can look for solar panels or at least recommended places?
My electric bill has gone up by $50 per month. That too because I have opted for a slightly higher electric rate for 100% Wind Power option. I charge my LEAF every night for about 4.5 hours at 240v 13 amps. I drive about 60 miles everyday. My commute alone is 45 miles roundtrip.
Nice review of the Leaf! I am a car salesman for Fred Beans Nissan in Limrick PA and a Leaf Owner. Your video nails the most important features of the car... Nice Job!
This was a great presentation. Answered a lot of my questions. Thank you for putting this up on youtube.
I love you guys. Personally I just thing you guys did a much better and detailed "infoview" and infomercial than the professional auto reviewers online. I'm also a Prius owner and looking for an all EV as 2nd car. I think I might just do the same successful formula as you. Thanks much for your insight. Blue Thumb Up!
I know your comment is 5 years old, but did you end up getting the leaf and if so, how was it? Where do you stand now?
Portable heater that runs on 115V -using a timer- and pre-heat the inside before
you drive in the morning. I can tell you that we expected to be much colder inside even now in late October, but it just isn't so. With the significant glass (and visibility) the car
temp stays just right during our daily commutes. In MN., there is no telling!
We just picked up our 2 new Nissan LEAFs from the dealer last Thursday and love them. They are very sleek and like the S model with the Upgraded Charging system. We definitely get looks from people driving around town, especially when we pull up to a traffic light or stop signal. However Bob, I would highly suggest that you only charge your vehicle to 80% and not to 100%. I have a friend who is one of the original EV developers in the USA and he advises against charging to 100% unless absolutely necessary. Charging to 100% will cause premature battery EOL, read about it further on the Nissan LEAF owners blog sites.
The 2013 Leaf is reduced by -$6500 and the range has been expanded.
Federal rebate is $7500...so the price should be in the mid to low $20's.
Figuring you save $16K in gas the first ten years.... To make enough power to offset the Leaf's use/month -you need about 1400 watts of panels- which cost about $1600 in parts (after tax credit). The panels will work for 30+ years. That will make it cost 1 cent per mile for fuel. If you charge from the wall, it costs $15 a month to do about 800 miles/mo
Very good video, did you get around to using the solar to power the leaf, any information on that, im interested in getting more information on that.
That high ridge from left to right at the front end of the trunk is not chargers, it's battery related though. Because the battery cells are so heavy, it keeps the body right left-to-right and prevents the battery from collapsing the floor of the passenger compartment. This is also why the front pillars, on either side of the windshield, are so massive -- if the car rolls over, they keep the heavy battery from crushing the passengers. Very safe but a little hard to see around. The heating system uses the same heat pump as the cooling system,which is quite efficient down to outside air temperature of 32F. Below freezing, resistance heating, like a toaster's coils, feed heat into the A/C system at (as you note) a significant cost in range. I have a 2012 SL also and it doesn't't have rear-seat heaters, and I suspect yours does not either. The velour seat covering is pretty comfortable even when the car starts off cold, though.
"It keeps the body RIGID from left to right", I mean.
From what we can see that is a beautifully wooded lot. I guess you have a decently open area somewhere to install the panels? I notice the cute open golfcart-like electric runabout further up the driveway. Are you in Peachtree City, where so much of the city is accessible via golfcart that 10,000+ residents have them?
Great video. Question... Did the DC fast charging port come standard on your vehicle or was it an upgrade you paid for? In your video, you mentioned that you don't use it and opt for conventional charging which takes longer.
Thanks !
What do you think of having a Honda generator in the back on long trips. It would say take 2 gallons of gas or so and some time but also peace of mind.
This is a fantastic review of the 2012 Leaf SL. Thank you both for this video.
Hi,
I am a LEAF Owner from Germany and I love this car - it's the best car I ever had. My solar panels produce enough energy for more than 30.000 miles. The heating system could be improved (nissan will do this with the 2013 version).
The last 10 Years I drove a citroen saxo electrique. The LEAF is a quantum leap!
Best regards
Ralf
I saw there were other charging stations in your area... I don't suppose you have ever had need to use one, but how do they work? I live in Nebraska, and I have never seen an electric car charging station.
I occasionally have to work about 50 miles away…any problem just driving there, charging it there and driving home ? Looks online like there are charging stations.
Great review! I am thinking of purchasing one myself. I live in a major metropolitan area but do drive a quite a bit during the day. Therefore, I do have range anxiety. But I am still so excited to buy one! Thanks for this wonderful review!
fantastic review. thank you guys for taking the time.
Hi Bob
Nice video. Thank You. Are you still driving Leaf? I am wondering what's your opinion about this car now after more time spent with it.
Is there any issue in your opinion with battery durability?
What are your biggest challanges concerning using this car if any?
+Michał Franczyk Sorry for the delay... Yes, we drive it every day... and it is FULL solar powered now... I have panels on the garage. Sure, the weak point is the battery. We were all concerned about cost and longevity. We've lost 7% of the battery capacity in 2 years. But, It started out working about 10% better than advertised, so we are about at the advertised spec now. I know as an engineer that LiPo batteries pull off their peak capacity after about 200 charges and then sit there at slightly less than peak- for their entire life. Then they just die all of the sudden years later. Nissan just announced their new Leaf battery with 25% more power... and that translates into more like 40% more range - because a bigger battery is loafing more..it isn't as stressed. Also, they announced the battery replacement cost - $5500...which is just fine. Being that one battery set replaces 10,000 miles of driving with gas. Four $100 solar panels will produce the power that the Leaf uses each month...forever. We have 18 panels powering the house and car. Only morons who worship the past still grope onto ancient oil technology..."The horse will never die"...but you know what happens if you wish it was the past...you become history.
+Bob Nagy Lots of great information in that comment and on the video, thank you very much!
i think the range is around 120mls per tank? then you have to charge - eiyther quick charge - around 2hrs, or slow charge 8hrs to fill the tank. In the UK many ASDA petrol stations have quick charge points
Thanks for this genuine and detailed review. Wish more owners would do reviews like this.
still drive my 2011 leaf, I hope to keep it forever.
how many bars lost?
Detailed and enthusiastic review.
But what about the negative side of the car, the things that you didn't like or had problem with?
I heard the battery had some problem.
Did you have that?
Can this car be driven every day during the winter months in an area with, say, 35-degree average temps? I live in NY and January can be quite cold on average.
thanks i was about to buy 1 today but when you said the car connects to Nissan well the can keep it
That's optional....your choice...in the menu screen
NickelPlatedRadium god bless you
Excellent video, In how long time have a Full recharge in a house plug in???
I have a 2015 Leaf SV. What happen to your battery? Are you still in love with it?
Great review, doing it as a couple adds a touch of down-to-earth authentic perspective. Well done! Thank You!
I noticed a Prius in your driveway? I've been interested in Priuses as well, and was wondering if you could also do a review on that?
Great job guys. I've got a new dream car now, thanks to you. Can you post more videos like one of a long trip, tire wear, passenger capacity, uphill capabilities... Keep it up!
Thanks for the insight (ha!). Great to see how the Leaf works in the real world. Very informative video. No rebates in Australia so the Leaf is AU$46k or ~50% more than Prius so only early adopters with deep pockets over here!
We find that the 110V US standard provided charger is all we need.
We never run it dead in one day... and the car is topped-off in the morning
when we leave.
Hi Bob, I'm wondering if you have an update on how you've been liking your car over the past 2 years?
If you don't set a timer do you have to hit the timer off button for immediate charging
True, but you CAN get that energy from solar or wind. By generating that power while you're driving the car, you can come home to a "full tank" of either electricity for a battery electric, or hydrogen for a fuel cell electric, then top it off with a rapid charge or hydrogen refill in under an hour. So even with those losses, either battery or fuel cell electric cars can be operated essentially for free after the initial investment. Pretty slick!
Very helpful review. Appreciate you taking the time to share your experiences!
Thank you for making the best video review of this vehicle anywhere!
great review, i just bought our 2015 nissan leaf yesterday, and i learned lots of infos from you guys.. thanks a lot.
+minetmanila Read my posting above Leon Hollida
I bought a used 2012 Leaf and I love it so far. What is your opinion on charging? 80 % or 100 %? Does it really matter?
+smilinmikeusa Only charge to 100% if you are going to use it right then. LiPo batteries don't like to sit at 100% charge - or at less than 20%. Set the overnight timer to 80% and do a quick top-off if you have a long-range trip that day. Ideal long-term storage (vacation) is at 50% charge... and LiPo's discharge slowest at 44F. You have about a 1 mile discharge sitting in the garage per day.
+smilinmikeusa Read my post above. Sorry for the bad news.
smilinmikeusa I'm thinking about buying a 2012 leaf what range can I expect t to get 100miles!? on a full charge or ...unrealistic !? I've heard some get 50 miles
I think for the price they are selling for you can't go wrong. My Leaf has recently lost its third capacity bar giving me a range of about 70 or so miles depending on highway driving, climate control usage, etc. Find a Leaf that hasn't lost too many capacity bars if you can. Also I would definitely have a 220 volt charger installed in your garage. I love mine. They have one that's about four hundred dollars and just plugs right into a 220 volt outlet. One more tip. Look for a 2013 model. They upgraded to a 6 kWh charger in the vehicle and put in a more efficient heater in the 2013 model.
Would this he a good car for a teenager? Ev stations are popping up in my town, would the Nissan leaf be a good choice for a teen going to school, work and around town?
Hi, Thanks for the Review. 4/3/17 I pick up a 2017 SV Leaf and I'm nervous and excited at the same time. I am a Uber/Lyft driver and worried about getting to charging stations. I am going to install one at my house. I am 5 model yrs ahead, do you think they have improved over all? I got the middle version . Thanks for any feedback you can offer. PS I live in Florida and I need AC on the cooler side. Bill M
Outstanding review from users who know the ins and outs of this car....really informative!
Do you guys still have the leaf ...If so why not another review for all this year of use 👍 thanks
Excellent tutorial, thank you very much!!!! Answered many of my questions, as I will be purchasing a Leaf in the near future!!
I'm doing research and am considering getting a used 2012 Leaf. How has it held up? Any battery concerns?
Im in this same boat and will be test driving one on Wednesday. I love all the benefits of this vehicle - -
we bought a used 2013 Leaf S w/23,750 last Friday for $8,500 and I must say I love my new toy. We also own a 2017 Volt and they complement each other pretty well. Yesterday I drove the Leaf for 51 miles running errands with the kids and it still showed 20 miles left on the "guessometer" which could easily been 30 miles from what I have seen so far. Then I switched cars and drove 60 miles round trip on 2017 Volt bc the kids wanted "real fireworks" which I had to buy in Cocoa (we live in Orlando). If you drive (plan) less than 60 miles per day you will have no issues with the car. The AC and heat insulation is even better than the Volt and much roomier interior, etc. I scored a BIG win on Friday.
Hello.. how about now ? Is it stil running smooth ? How the battery? Thankyou . God bless
Does this car play .flac files?
So how do you feel about the Leaf now that it is 2021?
How long does it take to charge at home and also how long does it take to charge fully in a charging station
when your out and about, how many miles would a 30 minute or hour charge give you? like if your at the mall shopping, how many miles would a quick charge give you in the parking lot?
Great. Thanks. Just bought one
Wow...fantastic video...well done. I recently bought a new Prius C, which I love. I live in the boonies in western MD and one of these actually passed by me a few weeks ago. I too commute exactly 10 miles 1 way to work and do all our shopping within a few miles. If I had to have a second car I'd take a close look at these.
Possibly the best review of Leaf I have found. How does cold weather effect the battery not just the heater. Does the Battery wear down faster ? How about hills? I live in a Nw PA we have a lot of steep hills. I am guessing that it would drain the battery faster. going up hills
did you get it with the fast charge CHAdeMO port?
Love it! That thing's like a spaceship. I'm guessing maintanence costs are less as well as the fuel costs?
great vid i hope you are both going to do a vid on the renault twizzy in the back ground???
Wow, I was watching this video out of interest, and when you mentioned the summer time temperatures, I thought, "That sounds just like Arkansas." And then I saw your map, and it looks like you guys are around Hot Springs, where I'm originally from! I'm shocked that there are electric charging stations in Arkansas. It's super awesome to see forward thinking folks in Arkansas! I recently relocated to Portland, Oregon, in October, and I've been researching electric cars.
I'm 22 years old and am totally interested in getting the Leaf as my next vehicle. I was wondering how far can it go at 45 miles per hour?
Great great review, you guys rock. I also own a 2012 Leaf and everything you said is 100% true. Great work. Great videos. You guys rock. Thanks
Very nice video and review..I just got my Leaf 2013 yesterday.It was just a little hassle at the dealer,they don't know anything about this awesome car,that's very sad,but I do,so I'm happy..if USA dealers finally will educate themselfs,it will be much better ambient to buy leaf..it's just $$$$ nothing else.I encourage people just close your eyes,try to get the best deal,because this car is treasure and it is loaded !! You won't go wrong..
Excellent, honest and unbiased review.
Thanks for sharing guys.
Good job Bob & Karen , 5.4 Miles/kWh! and I love your radio presets! NPR and Left...two of my favorites.
How do you secure the charger when your out in public charging, say at a university?
Hi guys I wonder if you still have your Leaf and still love it.
Tell me why you can't use capacitors and a generator to powerful an electric car?
The first "modern" production electric car, Enfield 8000 was actually built 40 years ago on a Greek island!. You can also check the trailer of my documentary on the E8000:
A TALE OF TWO ISLES TRAILER
Excellent video. Very informative and professional. Thank you!
The experiences I read about at mynissanleaf say that in cold weather you'll have a slightly shorter range, but when warm weather returns, the battery will recover and be back to normal. I'm in Florida, so can't speak to the issue of hills :)
I drive my LEAF in below freezing temps without issues. I am careful to charge when the batteries themselves are not below freezing. Even when its in the teens outside, my garage is in the 40's and ideal for overnight charging.
how big electricity used while charging? is it true 3300 watt?
It's great that these cars offer an alternative to gas which is very expensive. My concern with this car and all new cars in general is that I would suspect the computer screens don't last very long and are costly to replace.
Just bought one!
+JESUS Read my Posting above Leon Hollida
okay
+Ethan Bradberry There are always anti-elec. car people on RUclips. Leon is one. They feel it is their duty to support the fossil fuel industry.
You see, our young boys & girls in the military died for our right to mid-east oil. Our biggest employer is the military industrial / anti-terrorism industry. We literally would economically collapse without ISIS. To use less oil - is to work against America's economic model. We build them up (create ISIS) then we blow them up- then we re-build them. Sound like an exaggeration? Here is ME being thanked for the weapons Reagan gave the Islamic terrorists in Afghanistan. ruclips.net/video/6bR-v6dj-IM/видео.html
Bob Nagy thanks for the info Bob
Bob Nagy I didn't think of it that way very smart and a good way to go too.