What To Know
- The Nissan Leaf has been a pioneer in the electric vehicle market, and its latest iterations, the EM61 and EM57, offer compelling choices for environmentally conscious drivers.
- The Nissan Leaf EM61 has a starting price of around $28,000, while the Nissan Leaf EM57 starts at around $33,000.
- The Nissan Leaf EM61 has a smaller battery pack, lower horsepower, and a less luxurious interior than the Nissan Leaf EM57.
The Nissan Leaf has been a pioneer in the electric vehicle market, and its latest iterations, the EM61 and EM57, offer compelling choices for environmentally conscious drivers. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the key differences between the Nissan Leaf EM61 and EM57, helping you make an informed decision about your next electric hatchback.
Performance and Range
The Nissan Leaf EM61 boasts a 110 kW electric motor, generating 147 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque. Its 40 kWh battery pack provides an estimated range of 149 miles on a single charge.
In contrast, the Nissan Leaf EM57 features a more powerful 160 kW electric motor, producing 214 horsepower and 250 lb-ft of torque. Its larger 62 kWh battery pack significantly extends the range to an impressive 226 miles.
Design and Interior
The Nissan Leaf EM61 and EM57 share a similar exterior design, featuring sleek lines and a modern aesthetic. However, the EM57 offers a more upscale interior with premium materials and advanced features.
The EM57’s interior is spacious and well-appointed, with a 12.3-inch touchscreen display, a premium sound system, and heated seats. The EM61, on the other hand, has a more basic interior with a smaller 8-inch touchscreen and fewer amenities.
Safety Features
Both the Nissan Leaf EM61 and EM57 come standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including:
- Automatic emergency braking
- Lane departure warning
- Blind spot monitoring
- Rear cross-traffic alert
- Adaptive cruise control
The EM57 adds additional safety features such as ProPILOT Assist, a semi-autonomous driving system that can assist with lane keeping and acceleration/braking.
Charging Capabilities
The Nissan Leaf EM61 and EM57 support both Level 1 and Level 2 charging. Level 1 charging using a standard 120-volt outlet takes approximately 19 hours for the EM61 and 27 hours for the EM57.
Level 2 charging using a 240-volt outlet significantly reduces charging time, taking approximately 7.5 hours for the EM61 and 11.5 hours for the EM57.
Price and Availability
The Nissan Leaf EM61 has a starting price of around $28,000, while the Nissan Leaf EM57 starts at around $33,000. Both models are available at Nissan dealerships nationwide.
Which Nissan Leaf Is Right for You?
The Nissan Leaf EM61 is an excellent choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking a reliable and efficient electric hatchback. Its lower price and shorter range make it a practical option for urban commuters and short-distance drivers.
The Nissan Leaf EM57 is the superior choice for those who prioritize performance, range, and comfort. Its more powerful motor, larger battery pack, and luxurious interior make it ideal for longer trips and daily commutes.
Beyond the Comparison: Additional Considerations
- Maintenance Costs: Electric vehicles generally have lower maintenance costs than gasoline-powered vehicles.
- Government Incentives: Both the Nissan Leaf EM61 and EM57 may qualify for federal and state tax incentives.
- Environmental Impact: Electric vehicles produce zero tailpipe emissions, reducing your carbon footprint.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the difference between the Nissan Leaf EM61 and EM57?
A: The Nissan Leaf EM61 has a smaller battery pack, lower horsepower, and a less luxurious interior than the Nissan Leaf EM57.
Q: Which Nissan Leaf has the longest range?
A: The Nissan Leaf EM57 has a longer range of 226 miles, compared to the EM61’s range of 149 miles.
Q: What is the starting price of the Nissan Leaf EM61 and EM57?
A: The Nissan Leaf EM61 starts at around $28,000, while the Nissan Leaf EM57 starts at around $33,000.