2010-2017 Nissan Leaf 4 Door EV Overview User Manual
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EV Overview for Your Nissan Leaf 4 Door First Generation (2010-2017)

EV Overview  
The EV (Electric Vehicle) system . . . . . . . . . . . . .EV-2  
Li-ion battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .EV-2  
Driving with a discharged Li-ion battery . . . . . . .EV-3  
Charging the 12-volt battery. . . . . . . . . . . . . .EV-5  
Li-ion battery warmer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .EV-5  
High voltage precautions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .EV-7  
High-voltage components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .EV-7  
Road accident precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .EV-8  
Emergency shut-off system . . . . . . . . . . . . . .EV-9  
EV (Electric Vehicle) characteristics . . . . . . . . . . .EV-9  
Noise and vibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .EV-10  
Life with an EV (scene guide) . . . . . . . . . . . . . .EV-10  
Charging the Li-ion battery. . . . . . . . . . . . . .EV-10  
Before driving your vehicle (models with  
At home after driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .EV-22  
Efficient use of your vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .EV-23  
Range . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .EV-23  
Improve driving range . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .EV-23  
Li-ion battery life . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .EV-24  
Li-ion battery maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . .EV-25  
EV unique information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .EV-25  
Meters and indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .EV-25  
Approaching Vehicle Sound for Pedestrians  
(VSP) system. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .EV-28  
Electric shift control system . . . . . . . . . . . . .EV-29  
LED headlight (low beam) (if so equipped) . . . .EV-29  
Solar cell module (if so equipped). . . . . . . . . .EV-30  
Driving range button (if so equipped). . . . . . . .EV-30  
navigation system). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .EV-13  
Starting your vehicle. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .EV-17  
Driving the vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .EV-18  
THE EV (ELECTRIC VEHICLE)  
SYSTEM  
LI-ION BATTERY  
The LEAF is an electric vehicle. Some of the  
vehicle’s systems operate differently and have  
different operating characteristics than vehicles  
equipped with an internal combustion engine. It is  
important to carefully review the entire Owner’s  
Manual for this reason. The main difference is the  
LEAF is powered by electricity. The LEAF does  
not require and it is not capable of using gasoline  
like a vehicle powered by a traditional internal  
combustion engine. The LEAF uses electricity  
stored in the lithium ion (Li-ion) battery. The ve-  
hicle Li-ion battery must be charged with electric-  
ity before the vehicle can be driven. As the vehicle  
operates, the Li-ion battery gradually discharges.  
If the Li-ion battery becomes completely dis-  
charged, the vehicle will not operate until it is  
re-charged. The charging process usually takes  
from approximately 30 minutes to 21 hours as  
described more fully in this manual.  
The Li-ion battery provides power to the electric  
motor (traction motor) that moves the vehicle.  
WARNING  
The Li-ion battery also charges the 12-volt bat-  
tery.  
Your vehicle contains a sealed Li-ion high  
voltage battery. If the Li-ion battery is  
disposed of improperly, there is a risk of  
severe burns and electrical shock that  
may result in serious injury or death and  
there is also a risk of environmental dam-  
age.  
The vehicle must be plugged in for the Li-ion  
battery to be charged. Additionally, the vehicle  
system can extend the vehicle range by convert-  
ing driving force into electricity that is stored in  
the Li-ion battery while the vehicle is decelerating  
or being driven downhill. This is called regenera-  
tive brake. This vehicle is considered to be an  
environmentally friendly vehicle because it does  
not emit exhaust gases, such as carbon dioxide  
and nitrogen oxide.  
CAUTION  
To prevent damage to the Li-ion battery:  
•
•
•
Do not expose a vehicle to extreme  
ambient temperatures for extended  
periods.  
Do not store a vehicle in temperatures  
below −13°F (−25°C) for over seven  
days.  
Do not leave your vehicle for over 14  
days where the Li-ion battery available  
charge gauge reaches a zero or near  
zero (state of charge).  
This vehicle uses two types of batteries. One is  
the 12-volt battery that is the same as the battery  
in vehicles powered by gasoline engines, the  
other is the Li-ion battery (high voltage).  
•
Do not use the Li-ion battery for any  
other purpose.  
The 12-volt battery provides power to the vehicle  
systems and features such as the audio system,  
supplemental restraint systems, headlights and  
windshield wipers.  
EV-2 EV Overview  
• The Li-ion battery has a limited service  
life. Contact a NISSAN certified LEAF  
dealer for information about recycling or  
disposal of the Li-ion battery. Do not at-  
tempt to recycle or dispose of the Li-ion  
battery yourself.  
NOTE:  
• If the outside temperature is −13°F  
(−25°C) or less, the Li-ion battery may  
freeze and it cannot be charged or provide  
power to run the vehicle. Move the vehicle  
to a warm location.  
• The capacity of the Li-ion battery in your  
vehicle to hold a charge will, like all such  
batteries, decrease with time and usage.  
As the battery ages and capacity de-  
creases, this will result in a decrease from  
the vehicle’s initial mileage range. This is  
normal, expected, and not indicative of  
any defect in your Li-ion battery. NISSAN  
estimates that battery capacity will be ap-  
proximately 80% of original capacity after  
five years, although this is only an esti-  
mate, and this percentage may vary (and  
could be significantly lower) depending  
on individual vehicle and Li-ion battery  
usage.  
DRIVING WITH A DISCHARGED  
LI-ION BATTERY  
When a destination is set in the navigation sys-  
tem that exceeds the available vehicle range, the  
navigation system automatically searches the lo-  
cation of nearby charging stations. When the  
nearby charging station locations are displayed,  
charge the Li-ion battery as soon as possible  
(models with navigation system).  
Warning lights illuminate on the instrument panel  
and messages are displayed on the vehicle infor-  
mation display to inform you that the Li-ion bat-  
tery charge is low. Instructions are also displayed  
on the navigation system screen to direct you to  
nearby charging stations (models with navigation  
system).  
• The Li-ion battery has limited service life,  
and when its charging capacity falls below  
a specific level, the EV system warning  
light will illuminate. Owners should bring  
their vehicle in for inspection and possible  
battery replacement.  
The vehicle’s range is very limited when these  
warning lights illuminate and messages are dis-  
played. Follow the instructions on the navigation  
screen (models with navigation system) and im-  
mediately charge the vehicle at the nearest  
charging station.  
EV Overview EV-3  
There are three levels of information that will be  
displayed as the Li-ion battery becomes dis-  
charged:  
1. The following warning lights illuminate on the  
instrument panel and messages are displayed  
on the vehicle information display at the same  
time to indicate low Li-ion battery charge:  
• The low battery charge warning light  
• The master warning light  
• “Li-ion battery level is Low”warning message  
is displayed on the vehicle information dis-  
play  
• See “Li-ion battery low charge warning” in  
the “Instruments and controls” section.  
1
• The driving range flashes  
.
2. If the vehicle is driven and the Li-ion battery  
᭺
continues to discharge, the driving range on  
• Messages are displayed on navigation sys-  
tem screen (if so equipped)  
• See “Low battery warning” in the “Instru-  
ments and controls” section.  
NOTE:  
2
the instrument panel changes to “—-”  
.
᭺
Due to traffic conditions, it may be diffi-  
cult to get to the charging station sug-  
gested by the navigation system. If the  
Li-ion battery is almost completely dis-  
charged, drive directly to the nearest  
charging station (models with naviga-  
tion system).  
Messages are displayed on the Navigation  
System screen (if so equipped). For more  
information, see “Low battery warning” in the  
“Instruments and controls” section.  
3. When the power limitation indicator light  
illuminates, traction motor output is lim-  
ited resulting in reduced vehicle speed. Stop  
the vehicle in a safe location before the Li-ion  
battery becomes completely discharged and  
EV-4 EV Overview  
there is no power available to drive the ve-  
hicle. Contact Roadside assistance service  
shown in your NISSAN Warranty Information  
Booklet. See “If the Li-ion battery becomes  
completely discharged” in the “In case of  
emergency” section.  
The Li-ion battery warmer uses electrical power  
from an external source when a charger is con-  
nected to the vehicle. The Li-ion battery warmer  
uses electrical power from the Li-ion battery  
when the charger is not connected to the vehicle.  
While the vehicle is not in use  
When the EV (Electric Vehicle) system is off for  
an extended time, the 12-volt battery may be  
automatically charged for a short period of time  
on a regular basis.  
NOTE:  
LI-ION BATTERY WARMER  
CHARGING THE 12-VOLT BATTERY  
The 12-volt battery is charged automatically us-  
ing electricity stored in the Li-ion battery.  
• Connect the charger to the vehicle and  
place the power switch in the OFF posi-  
tion when parking the vehicle if tempera-  
tures may go below -1°F (-17°C). This pro-  
vides external power to the Li-ion battery  
warmer when it operates and does not  
discharge the Li-ion battery.  
CAUTION  
The Li-ion battery warmer does not oper-  
ate if the available Li-ion battery charge  
is less than approximately 30% and the  
charger is not connected to the vehicle.  
To help prevent the Li-ion battery from  
freezing, do not leave the vehicle in an  
environment if temperatures may go be-  
low -1°F (-17°C) unless the vehicle is con-  
nected to a charger.  
When the 12-volt battery is being charged, the  
charge status indicator light on the instrument  
panel flashes (except when charging the Li-ion  
battery or the power switch is in the READY to  
drive position). See “Charge status indicator  
lights” in the “Charge” section.  
• The charging status indicator lights illumi-  
nate in a specific pattern when the Li-ion  
battery warmer operates. The charging  
status indicator lights use the same pat-  
tern to indicate 12-volt battery charging,  
Climate Ctrl. Timer operation or Remote  
Climate Control operation (models with  
navigation system). The charging status  
indicator lights do not change if the Li-ion  
battery warmer operates at the same time  
as the above features. See “Charge status  
indicator lights” in the “Charging” section.  
While vehicle is driven  
The Li-ion battery charges the 12-volt battery as  
necessary when the power switch is in the  
READY to drive position or ON position.  
The Li-ion battery warmer helps to prevent the  
Li-ion battery from freezing and helps to prevent  
significant reductions in the Li-ion battery output  
when the temperature is cold. The Li-ion battery  
warmer automatically turns on when the Li-ion  
battery temperature is approximately -1°F  
(-17°C) or colder. The Li-ion battery warmer au-  
tomatically turns off when the Li-ion battery tem-  
perture is approximately 14°F (-10°C) or higher.  
The 12-volt battery is not charged in the following  
conditions.  
• When the power switch is in ACC position.  
• When the power switch is in ON position and  
shift position is in the N (Neutal) position.  
EV Overview EV-5  
• The Li-ion battery warmer uses Li-ion bat-  
tery power to operate, even if the vehicle  
is connected to a charger when:  
– the vehicle’s power switch is in the ON  
position.  
mote Climate Control (models with navi-  
gation system) while the Li-ion battery  
warmer operates.  
• The Li-ion battery may not charge to the  
expected level using the charging timer  
when [Start Time] (models with navigation  
system) and [End Time] are set while the  
Li-ion battery warmer operates.  
– there is no electrical power being sup-  
plied to the charging equipment.  
• When the Li-ion battery warmer is already  
in operation using an external power  
source, it will continue to use the external  
power even if the power switch is placed  
in the ON position.  
• Set the charging timer [End Time] when  
charging in cold weather. The vehicle au-  
tomatically determines when to start  
charging to fully charge the Li-ion battery,  
even if the Li-ion battery warmer operates.  
Charging ends before the set end time if  
the Li-ion battery is fully charged.  
• Vehicle driving range is reduced if the  
Li-ion battery warmer operates (Li-ion  
battery temperature approximately -1°F  
(-17°C) or colder) while driving the vehicle.  
You may need to charge the Li-ion battery  
sooner than in warmer temperatures.  
• The Li-ion battery requires more time to  
charge when the Li-ion battery warmer  
operates.  
• The predicted charging time displayed on  
the meter and navigation system (models  
with navigation system) increases when  
the Li-ion battery warmer operates.  
• Climate control performance is reduced  
when using the Climate Ctrl. Timer or Re-  
EV-6 EV Overview  
HIGH VOLTAGE PRECAUTIONS  
HIGH-VOLTAGE COMPONENTS  
WARNING  
•
•
The EV (Electric Vehicle) system uses  
high voltage up to approximately DC  
400 volt. The system can be hot during  
and after starting and when the vehicle  
is shut off. Be careful of both the high  
voltage and the high temperature. Fol-  
low the warning labels that are at-  
tached to the vehicle.  
Never disassemble, remove or replace  
high-voltage parts and cables as well  
as their connectors because they can  
cause severe burns or electric shock  
that may result in serious injury or  
death. High-voltage cables are colored  
orange. The vehicle high voltage sys-  
tem has no user serviceable parts.  
Take your vehicle to a NISSAN certified  
LEAF dealer for any necessary mainte-  
nance.  
High-voltage components  
1. Traction motor and reduction gear 4. High-voltage wire harnesses (colored  
orange)  
2. Power delivery module (PDM) (Charger,  
DC/DC Converter, Junction Box)  
5. Li-ion battery  
6. Service plug  
3. Traction motor inverter  
EV Overview EV-7  
ROAD ACCIDENT PRECAUTIONS  
•
Leaks or damage to the Li-ion battery  
may result in a fire. If you discover  
them, contact emergency services im-  
mediately. Since the fluid leak may be  
lithium manganate from the Li-ion bat-  
tery, never touch the fluid leak inside  
or outside the vehicle. If the fluid con-  
tacts your skin or eyes, wash it off  
immediately with a large amount of  
water and receive immediate medical  
attention to help avoid serious injury.  
If a fire occurs in the EV (Electric Ve-  
hicle), leave the vehicle as soon as  
possible. Only use a type ABC, BC or C  
fire extinguisher that is meant for use  
•
•
If you are not able to safely assess the  
vehicle due to vehicle damage, do not  
touch the vehicle. Leave the vehicle  
and contact emergency services. Ad-  
vise 1st responders that this is an elec-  
tric vehicle.  
WARNING  
In case of a collision:  
•
If your vehicle is drivable, pull your  
vehicle off the road, push the P (Park)  
position switch on the shift lever, apply  
the parking brake and turn the EV  
(Electric Vehicle) system off.  
In the event of an accident that re-  
quires body repair and painting, the  
vehicle should be delivered to  
a
•
Check your vehicle to see if there are  
exposed high-voltage parts or cables.  
For their locations, see “High voltage  
components” in this section. To avoid  
personal injury, never touch high-  
voltage wiring, connectors, and other  
high-voltage parts, such as inverter  
unit and Li-ion battery. An electric  
shock may occur if exposed electric  
wires are visible when viewed from  
inside or outside of your vehicle.  
Therefore, never touch exposed elec-  
tric wires.  
NISSAN certified LEAF dealer to have  
the Li-ion battery pack and high volt-  
age parts such as the inverter, includ-  
ing the wiring harness, removed prior  
to painting. Li-ion battery packs ex-  
posed to heat in the paint booth will  
experience capacity loss. Damaged Li-  
ion battery packs may also pose safety  
risks to untrained mechanics and re-  
pair personnel.  
•
•
on electrical fires. Using  
a
small  
amount of water or the incorrect fire  
extinguisher can result in serious in-  
jury or death from electrical shock.  
If your vehicle needs to be towed, do it  
with the front wheels raised. If the  
front wheels are on the ground when  
towing, the traction motor may gener-  
ate electricity. This may damage the  
components of the EV (Electric Ve-  
hicle) system and cause a fire.  
•
If the vehicle receives a strong impact  
to the floor while driving, stop the ve-  
hicle in a safe location and check the  
floor.  
EV-8 EV Overview  
EV (ELECTRIC VEHICLE)  
CHARACTERISTICS  
NOTE:  
EMERGENCY SHUT-OFF SYSTEM  
WARNING  
Pay special attention to pedestrians.  
Because there is no engine noise, pe-  
destrians may not know the vehicle is  
approaching, moving or about to  
move, and may step into the path of  
vehicle travel.  
When leaving the vehicle, be sure to  
turn off the EV (Electric Vehicle) sys-  
tem.  
Be sure to push the P (Park) position  
switch on the shift lever and apply the  
parking brake when parking because  
the vehicle can move when the READY  
to drive indicator light is ON. When the  
READY to drive indicator light is ON,  
do not leave your vehicle in a shift  
position other than the P (Park) posi-  
tion.  
Keep the brake pedal depressed until  
you are ready to drive. When the ve-  
hicle is in the D (Drive) position or ECO  
or R (Reverse) position, if you release  
the brake pedal and do not depress  
accelerator, the vehicle will creep and  
may start abruptly. This may cause se-  
rious injury or death.  
• The vehicle cannot run with a discharged  
Li-ion battery. Repeated acceleration con-  
sumes more power from the Li-ion battery  
than driving at a steady speed.  
The emergency shut-off system is activated and  
the high-voltage system automatically turns off in  
the following conditions:  
•
- Front and side collisions in which the air bags  
are deployed.  
• This vehicle is equipped with a regenera-  
tive brake system. The primary purpose of  
regenerative brake system is to provide  
some power to recharge the Li-ion battery  
and extend driving range. A secondary  
benefit is “engine braking” that operates  
based on Li-ion battery conditions.  
- Certain rear collisions.  
•
•
- Certain EV (Electric Vehicle) system malfunc-  
tions  
For the above collisions and certain other EV  
(Electric Vehicle) system malfunctions, the  
READY to drive indicator light will turn off. See  
“Warning/indicator lights and audible reminders”  
in the “Instruments and controls” section.  
• In the D (Drive) position, when the accel-  
erator pedal is released, the regenerative  
brake system provides some decelera-  
tion.  
The emergency shut-off activates for the above  
collisions to minimize risk of an event that could  
cause injury or an accident. If the emergency  
shut-off system activates, the EV system may not  
be switched to READY to drive position, contact  
a NISSAN certified LEAF dealer. Even if the  
power switch is switched to READY to drive  
position, the system may shut-off suddenly.  
Therefore, drive cautiously to the nearest  
NISSAN certified LEAF dealer or contact a  
NISSAN certified LEAF dealer as soon as pos-  
sible.  
• When you put the shift lever in the ECO  
position (models without navigation sys-  
tem) or B position (models with naviga-  
tion system) and take your foot off the  
accelerator pedal, more regenerative  
brake is applied than in the D (Drive)  
position.  
•
EV Overview EV-9  
LIFE WITH AN EV (SCENE GUIDE)  
• Less deceleration is provided by the re-  
generative brake system when the Li-ion  
battery is fully charged. Regenerative  
brake is automatically reduced when the  
Li-ion battery is fully charged to prevent  
the Li-ion battery from becoming over-  
charged. Regenerating brake is also auto-  
matically reduced when the battery tem-  
perature is high/low (indicated by the red/  
blue zones on the Li-ion battery  
temperature gauge) to prevent Li-ion bat-  
tery damage.  
This section provides a brief explanation for the  
most important LEAF functions. Refer to the spe-  
cific sections of this manual for detailed explana-  
tions of the vehicle features and operation.  
NOISE AND VIBRATION  
You might experience the following noise or vi-  
bration as a normal characteristic of this vehicle.  
• Traction motor noise from motor compartment.  
CHARGING THE LI-ION BATTERY  
• Water pump and radiator fan noise while charg-  
ing.  
• Compressor and radiator fan noise when the  
Climate Ctrl. Timer or remote climate control  
(models with navigation system) is used.  
WARNING  
The EV (Electric Vehicle) system uses a  
high voltage current. Failure to follow the  
proper handling instructions may cause  
serious injury or death. Be sure to read  
the “Charge” section and follow the pro-  
cedures and guidelines described.  
• Relay operation noise and vibration at start-up  
and shut-down of the EV (Electric Vehicle) sys-  
tem (power switch placed in the ON and OFF  
position).  
• The brake pedal should be used to slow or  
stop the vehicle depending on traffic or  
road conditions. The vehicle brakes are  
not affected by regenerative brake system  
operation.  
• Approaching Vehicle Sound for Pedestrians  
(VSP).  
EV-10 EV Overview  
EV Overview EV-11  
EV-12 EV Overview  
– The computer must be connected to  
the internet.  
– A cellular phone must be used to com-  
municate with the vehicle.  
– A cellular phone capable of text mes-  
saging must be used to receive text  
message regarding vehicle charge sta-  
tus.  
• The remote heater and cooler can adjust  
the in-cabin temperature.  
• When the charge connector is discon-  
nected from the vehicle, the heater and air  
conditioner operates using vehicle Li-ion  
battery electric power.  
NOTE:  
BEFORE DRIVING YOUR VEHICLE  
(MODELS WITH NAVIGATION  
SYSTEM)  
• If the remote heater and air conditioner  
function and Li-ion battery charging are  
performed at the same time, Li-ion battery  
charging will take longer than usual due  
to the power used to heat or cool the  
vehicle.  
• To check the Li-ion battery charging status  
or to use the remote heater and air condi-  
tioner using an internet enabled smart  
phone or personal computer, the follow-  
ing conditions must be met:  
– The vehicle must be located in a cellu-  
lar phone or smart phone coverage  
area.  
– The internet enabled cellular phone or  
smart phone must be located in a cel-  
lular phone or smart phone coverage  
area.  
The Li-ion battery charging status and the Li-ion  
battery warmer operation can be checked using  
an internet enabled smart phone or personal  
computer at home. You may also choose to have  
SMS messages (text messages) sent to a cellular  
phone. Additionally, the heater and air condi-  
tioner of the vehicle can be set to operate using  
the Climate Ctrl. Timer function or A/C-heater  
remote function, if necessary. See “Remote cli-  
mate control” in the “Display screen, heater, air  
conditioner, audio and phone systems” section.  
EV Overview EV-13  
If the Li-ion battery is not sufficiently charged, you  
can start charging the Li-ion battery via the re-  
mote charge function. See “Charging related re-  
mote function” in the “Charging” section.  
Checking Li-ion battery charging  
status  
The Li-ion battery charge status can be checked  
on the NISSAN CARWINGS Data Center web-  
site via an internet enabled smart phone or per-  
sonal computer.  
EV-14 EV Overview  
This allows the interior of the vehicle to be heated  
or cooled while the vehicle is charging. This re-  
duces the load on the Li-ion battery while the  
vehicle is being driven and can help increase the  
vehicle driving range. See “Remote climate con-  
trol” in the “Display screen, heater, air condi-  
tioner, audio and phone systems” section.  
Operating the climate control system  
before driving  
The vehicle heating and air conditioning system  
can be turned on via remote control with an  
internet enabled smart phone or personal com-  
puter.  
EV Overview EV-15  
When the power switch is in the OFF position  
and charge connector is not connected, if the  
Li-ion battery warmer starts or stops, it notifies  
you to connect the charger to the vehicle.  
Notification of the Li-ion battery  
warmer operation  
You can be notified the Li-ion battery warmer  
operation on the NISSAN CARWINGS Data  
Center website via an internet enabled smart  
phone or personal computer.  
See LEAF Navigation System Owner’s Manual.  
EV-16 EV Overview  
5. Check the Li-ion battery level and the esti-  
mated driving range shown on the meter. See  
“Driving range” in the “Instruments and con-  
trols” section.  
NOTE:  
• Before driving, compare the driving dis-  
tance to the destination displayed on the  
navigation screen with the estimated driv-  
ing range shown on the meter. Determine  
if it will be necessary to charge the Li-ion  
battery before or while driving to your  
planned destination (models with naviga-  
tion system).  
STARTING YOUR VEHICLE  
1. Depress the brake pedal.  
2. Press the power switch.  
• If it is necessary to charge the Li-ion bat-  
tery, use the navigation system to search  
for available charging stations on your  
planned driving route (models with navi-  
gation system).  
3. Check that the READY to drive indicator light  
illuminates and the start up sound is audible.  
See “Ready to drive indicator light” in the  
“Instruments and controls” section.  
4. For models with navigation system: If route  
guidance is necessary, enter the destination  
in the navigation system. See LEAF Naviga-  
tion System Owner’s Manual.  
EV Overview EV-17  
5. Release the brake pedal.  
There are following gear positions for driving the  
vehicle forward:  
DRIVING THE VEHICLE  
1. Depress the brake pedal.  
2. Release the parking brake.  
6. Depress the accelerator pedal and start  
driving.  
• Use the D (Drive) position for optimum driving  
performance.  
3. Move the shift lever into the D (Drive) position.  
When released, the shift lever returns to its  
original center position.  
• Use the B position for downhill driving. When  
the B position is used, more regenerative brake  
is applied when the accelerator pedal is re-  
leased in comparison to the D (Drive) position  
(with navigation system).  
4. Confirm that the vehicle is in the D (Drive)  
position. The indicator next to the “D” by the  
shift lever illuminates and “D” is displayed on  
the meter.  
See “Driving vehicle” in the “Starting and driving”  
section.  
EV-18 EV Overview  
Use the ECO position for maximum vehicle range  
and for city driving. The ECO position helps re-  
duce power consumption by reducing accelera-  
tion when compared to the same accelerator  
pedal position in the D (Drive) position.  
Without navigation system model: When the  
ECO position is used, more regenerative brake is  
applied when the accelerator pedal is released in  
comparison to the D (Drive) position.  
NOTE:  
The regenerative brake converts the vehi-  
cle’s forward motion to electric power to  
help slow the vehicle.  
While the vehicle is being driven you can check  
your own ECO drive level on the ECO indicator.  
See “ECO indicator” in the “Instruments and  
controls” section.  
EV Overview EV-19  
If the low battery charge warning light  
illuminates, the Li-ion battery charge is too low for  
travel. See ЉLow battery charge warning light” in  
the “Instruments and controls” section. Charge  
the Li-ion battery as soon as possible.  
EV-20 EV Overview  
2. Apply the parking brake.  
Parking the vehicle  
3. Push the power switch to the OFF position.  
1. When stopping the vehicle, push the P (Park)  
position switch on the shift lever while de-  
pressing the brake pedal. Confirm that the  
vehicle is in the P (Park) position by checking  
the shift indicator located near the shift lever  
or on the vehicle information display.  
4. If a parking lot is equipped with charging  
facilities, charge the Li-ion battery as neces-  
sary. See “Charge” section.  
EV Overview EV-21  
NOTE:  
• Charging can be started remotely, even if  
charging timer is set up.  
• When you have forgotten to connect the  
charge connector at home, there is a func-  
tion that can notify you via text message  
capable cellular phone, internet enabled  
smart phone or personal computer. See  
“Charging related remote function” in the  
“Charge” section (models with navigation  
system).  
• NISSAN recommends that you connect  
the normal charge cable when getting out  
of the vehicle, even if it is not going to be  
used. By doing this, you can get the most  
out of the remote climate control (models  
with navigation system) and Climate Ctrl.  
Timer functions the next time you use the  
vehicle.  
mation display. See “Vehicle information dis-  
play” in the “Instruments and controls”  
section.  
AT HOME AFTER DRIVING  
Charging the Li-ion battery  
When you return home, connect the vehicle to  
the charging station installed at your home using  
the normal charge connector.  
2. Open the charge port lid and charge port cap.  
See “Charge port lid” in the “Pre-driving  
checks and adjustments” section.  
Charge the vehicle or set the charging timer  
function to have the vehicle charge at a specific  
time. See “Charging timer” in the “Charge” sec-  
tion.  
3. Connect the charge connector to the vehicle.  
4. When a charging timer is turned on, charging  
starts at the set time. When a charging timer  
is not turned on, charging starts immediately.  
1. When the power switch is turned off, the  
settings of the charging timer, and the Climate  
Ctrl. Timer and the charge connector lock  
functions are displayed on the vehicle infor-  
EV-22 EV Overview  
EFFICIENT USE OF YOUR VEHICLE  
RANGE  
The distance you can drive the vehicle (range)  
varies considerably depending upon available  
charge, weather, temperature, usage, battery  
age, topography, and driving style.  
• electrical load from vehicle accessories,  
• traffic and road conditions.  
• Drive at moderate speeds on the highway.  
• Avoid frequent stopping and braking. Maintain a  
safe distance behind other vehicles.  
NISSAN recommends the following driving  
habits to help maximize vehicle range:  
• Turn off the air conditioner/heater when it is not  
necessary.  
Before driving:  
• Select a moderate temperature setting for heat-  
ing or cooling to help reduce power consump-  
tion.  
Vehicle range depends on a number of factors.  
When the Li-ion battery is new, the estimated ve-  
hicle range with a fully charged Li-ion battery is  
estimated to be 84 miles (134 km) based on EPA  
laboratory tests. These tests represent a combina-  
tion of city and highway driving conditions. Your  
actual range can vary, either initially or as the bat-  
tery ages and with use over time. The majority of  
drivers will experience vehicle ranges between 62  
to 138 miles (99 to 222 km) based on the many  
factors that affect vehicle range. See “Improve  
driving range” in this section for information of the  
factors that affect vehicle range and how to use the  
vehicle to maximize vehicle range. Please refer to  
the Monroney label for ‘official’ EPA range values.  
• Follow recommended periodic maintenance.  
• Keep tires inflated to correct pressure.  
• Keep wheels in correct alignment.  
• Use the air conditioner/heater and close win-  
dows to reduce drag when cruising at highway  
speed.  
• Pre-heat or pre-cool the interior cabin while the  
vehicle is charging.  
• Remove unnecessary cargo from the vehicle.  
• Vehicle range may be substantially reduced in  
extremely cold conditions (for example -4°F  
(-20°C).  
While driving:  
• Drive in ECO mode  
• Using the climate control system to heat the  
cabin when outside temperature is below 32°F  
(0°C) uses more electricity and affects vehicle  
range more than when using the heater when  
the temperature is above 32°F (0°C).  
– In the ECO position more regenerative  
brake is applied when the accelerator pedal  
is released in comparison to the D (Drive)  
position and more power is provided to the  
Li-ion battery (models with navigation sys-  
tem).  
IMPROVE DRIVING RANGE  
Vehicle range depends on a number of factors.  
• Drive at a constant speed. Maintain cruising  
speeds with a constant accelerator positions or  
by using cruise control when appropriate.  
Actual vehicle range will vary depending upon:  
• Accelerate slowly and smoothly. Gently press  
and release the accelerator pedal for accelera-  
tion and deceleration.  
• speed,  
• vehicle load,  
EV Overview EV-23  
• Release the accelerator pedal to slow down  
and do not apply the brakes when traffic and  
road conditions allow.  
The Li-ion battery’s ability to hold a charge can be  
affected by how you drive the vehicle, store the  
vehicle, how you charge the Li-ion battery and  
Li-ion battery temperature during vehicle opera-  
tion and charging.  
• Use the normal charging or trickle charging  
methods to charge the Li-ion battery and mini-  
mize the use of public Fast Charge or Quick  
Charger.  
– This vehicle is equipped with a regenerative  
brake system. The primary purpose of re-  
generative brake system is to provide some  
power to recharge the Li-ion battery and  
extend driving range. A secondary benefit is  
“engine braking” that operates based on  
Li-ion battery conditions. In the D (Drive)  
position, when the accelerator is released,  
the regenerative brake system provides  
some deceleration and some power to the  
Li-ion battery.  
• Avoid repetitive charging of the Li-ion battery  
with high battery state of charge.  
To maximize the battery’s useful life, use the fol-  
lowing driving and charging habits where pos-  
sible:  
• Moderate driving.  
• Use of ECO mode.  
• Avoid exposing a vehicle to extreme ambient  
temperatures for extended periods.  
• If the vehicle will not be used for an extended  
period of time, charge the Li-ion battery once  
every 3 months. Do not operate the charging  
timer repeatedly while the charge connector is  
connected to the vehicle after the Li-ion battery  
charging is completed. Doing so may discharge  
the 12-volt battery.  
• Avoid storing a vehicle in temperatures below  
−13°F (−25°C) for over 7 days.  
• Avoid leaving your vehicle for over 14 days  
where the Li-ion battery available charge gauge  
reaches a zero or near zero (state of charge).  
LI-ION BATTERY LIFE  
The power of the Li-ion battery can be  
checked on the Li-ion battery available charge  
gauge. See “Li-ion battery available charge  
gauge” in the “Instruments and controls” for  
details.  
The Li-ion battery’s ability to hold a charge, like all  
batteries, decreases with battery age and usage  
which results in decreased vehicle range when  
compared to the vehicle range when the vehicle  
was new. This is normal and expected, and does  
not indicate a malfunction of the vehicle or Li-ion  
battery.  
• Allow the vehicle and Li-ion battery to cool  
down after use before charging.  
• Park/store your vehicle in cool locations out of  
direct sunlight and away from heat sources.  
• Avoid sustained high battery temperatures  
(caused, for example, by exposure to very high  
ambient temperatures or extending highway  
driving with multiple quick charges).  
EV-24 EV Overview  
EV UNIQUE INFORMATION  
LI-ION BATTERY MAINTENANCE  
METERS AND INDICATORS  
In addition to the regular maintenance recom-  
mended by NISSAN, the LEAF requires some  
special Li-ion battery inspections.  
The vehicle has two displays to provide informa-  
tion regarding vehicle operation:  
• Upper display  
• Lower display  
• See the NISSAN Warranty Information Booklet  
for significant limitations, exclusions and pos-  
sible voiding of your warranty resulting from  
failure to have these necessary inspections, re-  
pairs and/or adjustments performed.  
• See the NISSAN Service and Maintenance  
Guide for a detailed explanation of the Li-ion  
battery inspection and intervals.  
Upper display  
Master warning lights:  
The master warning lights are located in the  
upper display.  
The master warning lights illuminate when any  
warning lights or indicators illuminate in the lower  
display or when messages are displayed on the  
vehicle information display.  
For additional information, see “Master warning  
light” in the “Instruments and controls” section.  
EV Overview EV-25  
ECO indicator:  
Power meter:  
Lower display  
This indicator provides instant information about  
how efficiently the vehicle is being operated. You  
can see how changing your driving style or op-  
eration of vehicle accessories affects power con-  
sumption.  
This meter displays the actual traction motor  
power consumption and the regenerative brake  
power provided to the Li-ion battery.  
Li-ion battery temperature gauge:  
This gauge displays the temperature of the Li-ion  
battery.  
For additional information, see “Power meter” in  
the “Instruments and controls” section.  
For additional information, see “Li-ion battery  
temperature gauge” in the “Instruments and con-  
trols” section.  
For additional information, see “ECO indicator”in  
the “Instruments and controls” section.  
EV-26 EV Overview  
Driving range:  
Li-ion battery available charge gauge:  
Li-ion battery capacity level gauge:  
This gauge displays the available Li-ion battery  
power remaining to drive the vehicle.  
This gauge displays the available capacity of the  
Li-ion battery remaining to store power.  
This indicator displays the estimated driving  
range (calculated based on a program that ac-  
counts for current driving style and operational  
conditions) that can be driven before recharging  
is necessary.  
For additional information, see “Li-ion battery  
available charge gauge” in the “Instruments and  
controls” section.  
For additional information, see “Li-ion battery ca-  
pacity level gauge” in the “Instruments and con-  
trols” section.  
For additional information, see “Driving range” in  
the “Instruments and controls” section.  
EV Overview EV-27  
3. 12-volt battery charge warning light  
4. Plug in indicator light  
5. READY to drive indicator light  
6. Power limitation indicator light  
7. EV system warning light  
8. Electric shift control system warning light  
9. Brake system warning light (yellow)  
10. Low battery charge warning light  
11. Headlight warning light  
12. Approaching Vehicle Sound for Pedestrians  
(VSP) system warning light  
For additional information, see “Warning/  
indicator lights and audible reminders” in the  
“Instruments and controls” section.  
APPROACHING VEHICLE SOUND  
FOR PEDESTRIANS (VSP) SYSTEM  
The Approaching Vehicle Sound for Pedestrians  
(VSP) system is a function that uses sound to  
alert pedestrians of the presence of the vehicle  
when it is being driven at a low speed.  
When the vehicle starts to move, it produces a  
sound.  
Warning and indicator lights  
The EV (Electric Vehicle) system uses the follow-  
ing EV (Electric Vehicle) specific warning and  
indicator lights.  
The sound stops when the vehicle speed is more  
than 19 MPH (30 km/h) while accelerating.  
1. Master warning light (red)  
2. Master warning light (yellow)  
EV-28 EV Overview  
The sound starts when the vehicle speed is less  
than 16 MPH (25 km/h) while decelerating.  
For additional information, see “Driving vehicle”in  
the “Starting and driving” section.  
The sound stops when the vehicle stops.  
LED HEADLIGHT (LOW BEAM) (IF  
SO EQUIPPED)  
This vehicle uses a LED headlight for the head-  
light low beam. The LED headlight has the follow-  
ing features.  
The sound does not stop with the vehicle in the R  
(Reverse) position even if the vehicle stops.  
WARNING  
•
•
If the sound cannot be heard, pedestri-  
ans may not notice the oncoming ve-  
hicle, which may cause an accident re-  
sulting in serious injury or death.  
Immediately contact a NISSAN certi-  
fied LEAF dealer for VSP system in-  
spection.  
If the VSP system warning light illumi-  
nates while the power switch is in the  
ON position, or in the READY to drive  
position, it may indicate the VSP sys-  
tem is not functioning properly. Have  
the system checked by a NISSAN cer-  
tified LEAF dealer. See “Approaching  
Vehicle Sound for Pedestrians (VSP)  
system warning light” in the “Instru-  
ments and controls” section.  
• Low power consumption  
• The shape is very compact.  
Contact a NISSAN certified LEAF dealer to re-  
place the headlight.  
ELECTRIC SHIFT CONTROL  
SYSTEM  
This vehicle is equipped with an electric shift  
control system. This control system has three  
features.  
• Smooth and easy shift lever operation.  
• To place the vehicle in the P (Park) position,  
push the P (Park) position switch on the shift  
lever.  
• The vehicle automatically applies the P (Park)  
position when the power switch is placed in the  
OFF position.  
EV Overview EV-29  
NOTE:  
The solar cell may not provide full charging  
power in the following situations.  
• When the intensity of sunlight is weak.  
• When the solar cell module is in the  
shade.  
• When the solar cell module is covered by  
leaves or dirt.  
DRIVING RANGE BUTTON (IF SO  
EQUIPPED)  
Push the driving range button on the steering  
wheel to check the estimated distance the ve-  
hicle may be driven with the available Li-ion bat-  
tery charge. See LEAF Navigation System Own-  
er’s Manual.  
Solar cell module on the rear spoiler  
SOLAR CELL MODULE (IF SO  
EQUIPPED)  
This vehicle uses a solar cell module to provide  
power to the 12-volt battery. The solar cell mod-  
ule only provides power to help maintain the  
charge of the 12-volt battery; it will not recharge  
a discharged 12-volt battery.  
The solar cell module does not provide power to  
the Li-ion battery.  
For maintenance, see “Cleaning exterior” in the  
“Appearance and care” section.  
EV-30 EV Overview  

Related Topics

The EV (Electric Vehicle) system Li-ion battery High voltage precautions High-voltage components EV (Electric Vehicle) characteristics Noise and vibration Charging the Li-ion battery Before driving your vehicle (models with navigation system) Starting your vehicle Driving the vehicle At home after driving Efficient use of your vehicle Range Improve driving range Li-ion battery life EV unique information Meters and indicators Approaching Vehicle Sound for Pedestrians (VSP) system Electric shift control system LED headlight (low beam) (if so equipped) Solar cell module (if so equipped)

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