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Review: Nissan Leaf – Why Buy An EV When You Can Lease One?

Ask anyone who has been following the latest trends in the electric vehicle industry, and they would probably tell you that BYD is the most impressive EV company at the moment.

The Chinese car and battery maker has been making waves around the world for everything from its battery technology to the cars that it builds. There is little doubt that BYD is currently the best at the game.

But before BYD or any other company started making waves in the EV industry, there was the Nissan Leaf. It is widely regarded as the granddaddy of the industry and credited for laying the groundwork for others to follow, in Malaysia at least.

The Leaf was one of the first mass distributed electric vehicles that Malaysians could buy. The first-generation model was introduced in Malaysia by Edaran Tan Chong Motor (ETCM) at the 2013 Kuala Lumpur International Motorshow. Back then it was priced at RM168,800.

The Nissan Leaf was also the world’s best-selling electric car up until 2020 when Tesla snatched the crown which it then subsequently lost to BYD in 2023.

The first-generation Leaf (above) was more of a novelty car, a toy even. With a range of just 195km, it did not go very far, but it found love in a number of homes, enough to convince ETCM to introduce the second-generation model.

The second-generation Nissan Leaf was introduced to Malaysians about four years ago, and since then it has been constantly overshadowed by stiff competition from China.

While the Leaf may have chartered the path for the other brands to eventually make inroads to the Malaysian market, it has ultimately been beaten at its own game. Or has it? Let’s first look into the numbers.

The Leaf costs RM168,888 without insurance and comes with a three-year or 100,000km warranty on the vehicle as well as an eight-year of 160,000km warranty on the battery.

For that money, you get an EV that has a 311km range on the NEDC cycle, but we saw a range of about 230km with the battery at 98% state of charge.

The sole electric motor that the Leaf is powered by is rated at 150PS and 320Nm of torque that drives the front wheels. The sprint to 100km/h is done in 7.9 seconds while top speed is rated at 155km/h.

Charging the Leaf can be done in about seven hours with a 6.6kW AC charger, or an hour using a 50kW DC charger. However, the Leaf will also happily charge up using your home’s 3.6kW three-pin-plug, and that will take you 12 hours.

Now for comparison’s sake, lets dive into the numbers of what is arguably Malaysia’s most popular EV for the moment – the BYD Atto 3.

BYD’s SUV comes in two variants, the standard range, which is priced at RM149,800 and the extended range, which has a price tag of RM167,800. There are some discounts that are currently being offered which drops the price of the Atto 3 by a further RM20,000, but for the sake of this article, we will ignore that just to make it a level playing field for the Leaf (though it really isn’t).

Since the extended range (ER) is more closely priced to the Leaf than the standard, we shall use that for comparison. The ER has a 60.48kWh battery that offers a 420km range. It sends 204PS and 310Nm of torque to the front wheels while the sprint to 100km/h is done in just 7.3 seconds.

The Atto 3 is built on a 400-volt platform and that allows it to support 7kW of AC charging and up to 80kW of DC charging. The latter will let you juice up from zero to 80% in just 45 minutes.

The Atto 3 also has vehicle to load capability, which lets you power up appliances such as a small coffee machine or a kettle, making the car ideal for picnics or camping by the beach.

But that is not all, the Atto 3 also utilises a BYD’s proprietary Blade Lithium Iron Phosphate battery, which is widely regarded as the safest battery in the industry.

The Atto 3 also has a better interior with a rotating infotainment screen, a full-sized panoramic sunroof, wireless Apple CarPlay and can even be locked or unlocked using a NFC key card.

The BYD Atto 3 is obviously the clear winner in the battle of the spec sheets. But anyone who buys the Atto 3 or any other EV in the country, is taking a step into the unknown.

Because the EV industry is still in its infancy, the market does not have a clue about how used EV’s are going to be accepted. In the UK for example, used car dealers are shunning used EV’s because they argue that the batteries of the used EV’s cannot hold as much charge as when they were new. This impacts range, which is an inconvenience, and replacing the batteries is very expensive, and buyers are aware of that and steer clear of used EV’s.

And then there is the issue of battery replacement. Should an EV owner wish to hold on to the car longer than the eight-year warranty that most manufacturers provide for their cars, there is a good chance they will have to take on the cost of battery replacement, or deal with battery degradation.

This is where the Nissan Leaf provides an ideal solution. ETCM has come up with a plan where you don’t buy the Leaf in the traditional sense, but rather you lease the car from the company, or subscribe to it, which is just a play on words that means the same thing. This might sound weird to some of the traditionalists, but it makes perfect sense, especially when it comes to an EV.

Called the Leaf Subscription Plan, the plan requires no down payment, and the monthly payments are just RM1,800 for a three-year contract. At the end of the contract, you can simply return the car.

This makes perfect sense for several reasons. For starters, you don’t have to deal with depreciation of the car, which is one of the main hole burners in your pocket. And then you don’t have to worry about disposing the car in the event you want to upgrade to a bigger car.

And most importantly and perhaps the biggest relief is not having to worry about the cost of the battery in the event it needed replacing. Sure, you would have paid RM64,800 at the end of the contract, but that is still much better than having to deal with depreciation or any unplanned maintenance issues.

This alone makes the Nissan Leaf a viable choice as your first EV or perhaps a second car. If your lifestyle revolves around the city and you don’t usually travel more than 30 to 50km per day, then the Leaf would be ideal. You don’t even have to worry about installing a wallbox since the Leaf can be charged with a domestic socket. And if you live in a high-rise building, then being able to charge up using an AC or DC charger is convenient as well.

For the purpose of daily use, the Leaf offers Apple CarPlay, Android auto and arguably some of the most comfortable seats in its segment. In fact, the Leaf is ideal for life in the urban jungle. Even its size makes it easy to live with, offering enough space for luggage and for five average sized adults to get comfortable in.

If safety is of concern, the Leaf has you covered as well, offering six airbags, and Nissan Intelligent Mobility systems, which is basically Nissan’s way of saying the car comes with advanced driver aid systems (ADAS).

So, if the EV bug has been gnawing at you but you have been hesitant to take the leap, then perhaps dipping your toes into the segment with a leased EV would make better sense than simply leaping blindfolded into the unknown. And though the Leaf may be outgunned and outpowered by the competition, but it is the only EV in the market you can lease now. So no, it has not been beaten at its own game, the Leaf simply changed the game, and won.

Specifications:
Motor: 110kW AC Synchronous Electric Motor
Power: 150PS
Torque: 320Nm
Range: 311km (NEDC)
Charging: 1 hour (50kW DC) 7 hours (6.6kW AC) 12 hours (3.6kW AC)
Price (As tested): RM168,888 (RM1,800 per month on subscription)

We like: You don’t have to buy it, can charge anywhere
We don’t like: Range, feels basic

Johor to Test QR Code Immigration Clearance System

A project for testing a QR code immigration clearance system in Johor is scheduled to commence in June, as announced by Baharuddin Tahir, the state Immigration director. According to The Star, the pilot project will be conducted at both the Bangunan Sultan Iskandar (BSI) and Sultan Abu Bakar Complex (KSAB) Customs, Immigration and Quarantine (CIQs).

Initially, the plan is to launch the pilot project in June, although there is a possibility of it being delayed depending on the readiness of the infrastructure and system developed for the QR code clearance.

The QR code immigration clearance will initially be implemented for factory buses travelling through BSI and KSAB. If the pilot project proceeds smoothly, it will be expanded to include other modes of transportation. Johor will be the first state in Malaysia to implement such a QR code immigration clearance system.

(more…)

Bentley Introduces the New Batur Convertible – Limited to 16 Units

Bentley Motors unveils the Batur Convertible, the third coachbuilt Bentley of the modern era, crafted by Mulliner, Bentley’s in-house bespoke division. Following the Bacalar barchetta and Batur coupe, the Batur Convertible continues the innovative design DNA introduced by its coupe sibling and embodies Bentley’s rich history of open-cockpit cars.

Powered by Bentley’s iconic W12 engine, the Batur Convertible boasts a 750PS, hand-assembled 6.0-litre twin-turbocharged powertrain, representing the pinnacle of Bentley’s engineering excellence. With production of this remarkable engine concluding this summer, the Batur Convertible stands as one of the last Bentleys to utilise this legendary powerplant.

Drawing inspiration from Bentley’s heritage of open-cockpit cars, the Batur Convertible features a ‘wraparound’ cockpit design reminiscent of the Bacalar, creating a dynamic and driver-focused environment. The convertible roof, deployable in just 19 seconds at speeds of up to 50km/h, transforms the car from a luxurious coupe to an open-top Grand Tourer, offering a seamless blend of performance and elegance.

Mulliner’s in-house design team collaborates with customers to co-create each Batur Convertible, offering a bespoke experience through the Mulliner visualiser tool. Customers can customise every aspect of the car, from exterior paint and brightware options to interior materials and finishes, ensuring that each Batur Convertible is a unique reflection of its owner’s tastes and preferences.

The cabin of the Batur Convertible exudes luxury and sophistication, with the option of 3D printed rose gold accents adorning key driver touchpoints and controls. Collaborating with expert goldsmiths from the historic Jewellery Quarter of Birmingham, England, Bentley Mulliner combines advanced manufacturing technologies with traditional craftsmanship to create bespoke elements that elevate the interior to new heights of luxury.

Limited to just 16 units, each handcrafted in Mulliner’s workshop at Bentley’s carbon-neutral factory in Crewe, England, the Batur Convertible represents the pinnacle of Bentley’s craftsmanship and heritage. As one of the final Bentleys to feature the iconic W12 engine, the Batur Convertible embodies the brand’s commitment to excellence and innovation, offering discerning customers a truly exclusive driving experience.

New BMW M4 CS does 0-100km/h in 3.2 seconds, 302km/h Top Speed

The new BMW M4 CS arrives as a compelling addition to the M lineup, offering a balance of power, agility, and lightweight construction. With a focus on enhancing performance and driving dynamics, the M4 CS slots between the Competition and CSL variants, delivering a thrilling driving experience.

Powered by a twin-turbocharged inline-six engine tuned to produce 543hp and 650Nm of torque, the M4 CS delivers exhilarating acceleration and impressive speed. Paired with BMW’s M xDrive all-wheel-drive system and an eight-speed Steptronic automatic transmission, the M4 CS can sprint from 0 to 100km/h in just 3.2 seconds, with a top speed limited to 302km/h.

Weight reduction is a key focus for the M4 CS, with carbon fibre-reinforced plastic utilised for various body panels, interior components, and even the exhaust system. This results in a lighter overall weight compared to the M4 Competition, contributing to improved performance and handling. The chassis and suspension tuning specific to the CS further enhance the cornering capability, making the M4 CS a formidable performer on both road and track.

BMW provides track or ultra-track tyres at no additional cost. They are mounted to a pair of M alloy wheels in black or gold that measure 19 inches in the front and 20 inches in the rear.

Visually, the M4 CS features distinctive styling cues, including unique exterior colours such as Riviera Blue or Frozen Isle of Man Green, complemented by exposed carbon fibre accents and yellow running lights.

The interior boasts a black colour scheme with red trim, crafted from high-quality leather and Alcantara materials. CS branding is prominent throughout the cabin, while the frameless kidney grille with red trim adds to the sporty aesthetic.

While the M4 CS commands a premium price tag starting at $124,675 (RM591,645), it offers enthusiasts a high-performance coupe that delivers on both style and substance. With production set to begin in July and deliveries expected later this year, the M4 CS promises to be a sought-after addition to the M lineup for driving enthusiasts seeking uncompromising performance and driving thrills.

Rolls-Royce Cullinan Series II: A Twin-Turbo 6.75-litre V12 Living on Borrowed Time

Rolls-Royce has unveiled the Cullinan Series II, building on the success of its predecessor since its initial launch in 2018. While the Cullinan has been known for its off-road capabilities, the Series II iteration aims to cater to an increasingly urban demographic, incorporating elements of self-driving technology and appealing to a younger clientele.

The exterior design of the Cullinan Series II reflects a modern urban aesthetic, with a focus on clean lines and verticality. The front features a new lamp treatment, emphasising tall daytime running light graphics inspired by illuminated skyscrapers. The illuminated pantheon grille, a first for the Cullinan, adds to its commanding presence on the road.

In profile, the Series II boasts subtle changes to the surfacing, including a new feature line leading from the taillight to the rear wheel, creating a sense of movement. The addition of upsized 23-inch wheels further enhances the SUV’s stance.

A new paint finish called Emperador Truffle, inspired by brown marble, adds a contemporary touch to the exterior.

Inside, the Cullinan Series II features a pillar-to-pillar glass-panel fascia in the upper portion of the dashboard, housing digital displays and incorporating advanced technology like the SPIRIT operating system.

Connectivity has been enhanced throughout the vehicle, with features such as the Whispers app for remote vehicle management and rear seat infotainment with streaming capabilities. Additionally, the Cullinan Series II introduces Bluetooth headphone pairing for the rear seat entertainment system.

For those seeking a more dynamic interpretation of the Cullinan, the Black Badge Cullinan Series II is available at launch. It features a distinct front-end treatment with a darkened grille and blacked-out exterior elements. The interior of the Black Badge variant maintains the dark ambience, with darkened metal finishes and a unique Clock Cabinet featuring an up-lit Spirit of Ecstasy figurine.

Under the hood, both the standard Cullinan and Black Badge Cullinan Series II are powered by the same twin-turbocharged 6.75-litre V12 engine, delivering 600PS and 900Nm of torque. However, Rolls-Royce has indicated that the days of the V12 engine are numbered, with a commitment to transitioning to electric power by 2030.

The Cullinan Series II represents a bold evolution of the iconic luxury SUV, combining modern design, advanced technology, and uncompromising performance.

Gallery: The Cullinan Series II