Nissan Motor Co. Ltd. NSANY recently launched the 2016 all-electric LEAF with an advanced battery. The new battery is standard for LEAF SV and LEAF SL models. The vehicle and its batteries are being assembled at Nissan's Smyrna, TN assembly plant.
The new vehicle will be powered by a 30 kWh battery which will provide an EPA-estimated range of 107 miles. This is 27% higher than the previous battery capacity of 24 kWH. The 2016 model also offers an improved IT system which is user-friendly and provides better connectivity.
Nissan gained a leading position in the electric vehicle market with the launch of LEAF in Dec 2010. However, in order to maintain its dominance, the company needs to focus on developing batteries with better capacity, packaging and durability at affordable prices.
All the LEAF models feature an 80kW AC synchronous motor which generates 107 horsepower and 187 lb-ft of torque. This feature provides a highly responsive and fun-to-drive experience. Notably, electric vehicles ensure no emission of CO2 and other greenhouse gases.
Meanwhile, the company is planning an audio and connectivity upgrade by adding NissanConnect to Mobile Apps of LEAF’s S models. NissanConnect can be accessed through a 5.0-inch color display in the vehicle. In the SV and SL models, the company will offer NissanConnect with Navigation and Mobile Apps – featuring a 7.0-inch color display with multi-touch control and Nissan Voice Recognition.
The NissanConnect system for LEAF models offers remote connection to the vehicle. With this, consumers can monitor a battery-charge, start charging event control and turn on the heating and air conditioning system before physically entering the vehicle.
The starting price of a 2016 Nissan LEAF SV model will be $26,700, after federal tax credit of $7,500. The LEAF SL has been priced at $29,290, after federal tax credit. Nissan will offer the LEAF S models with a 24 kWh battery with an EPA-estimated range of 84 miles. The price for 2016 Nissan LEAF S grade remains at $21,510, after deducting the federal tax incentive.
Nissan believes that the new LEAF range will offer more space and also satisfy consumer demand. In addition, the vehicles will save fuel cost and are low maintenance. To add to the pros, the price is reasonable when compared to other gas-powered vehicles. The vehicle is available in three colors Forged Bronze, Coulis Red and Deep Blue Pearl.
Nissan currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold).
Better-ranked stocks in the auto industry include Ford Motor Co. F, Continental Aktiengesellschaft CTTAY and Wabash National Corp. WNC, all carrying a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy).
Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report >>
Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report
FORD MOTOR CO (F): Free Stock Analysis Report
NISSAN ADR (NSANY): Free Stock Analysis Report
WABASH NATIONAL (WNC): Free Stock Analysis Report
CONTL AG-SP ADR (CTTAY): Free Stock Analysis Report
To read this article on Zacks.com click here.
Zacks Investment Research