Nissan cuts entry-level MSRP for 2013 LEAF by 18% to $28,800
15 January 2013
Nissan announced that US pricing for the updated 2013 Nissan LEAF electric vehicle (earlier post) will start at an MSRP of $28,800 for the newly-added entry-level S grade—an 18% reduction from the $35,200 MSRP of the 2012 LEAF entry model, the SV. The entry-level 2013 LEAF S becomes the lowest priced five-passenger electric vehicle sold in the United States.
Under the new pricing, the 2013 LEAF SV—now the mid-level model—carries an MSRP of $31,820, while the top-end 2013 LEAF SL has an MSRP of $34,480. The 2012 LEAF SL had an MSRP of $37,250. Depending on location, some consumers may purchase the 2013 LEAF for as low as $18,800 with qualifying federal and state tax credits, putting the LEAF on par with gas-powered vehicles of its size.
| MSRPs of 2012 LEAF and 2013 LEAF | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Model | MY 2012 MSRP | MY 2013 MSRP | Δ |
| LEAF S | – | $28,800 | -18% relative to '12 SV |
| LEAF SV | $35,200 | $31,820 | -10% |
| LEAF SL | $37,250 | $34,840 | -6% |
Nissan recently began US assembly of the 2013 Nissan LEAF at its manufacturing plant in Smyrna, Tenn., a localization initiative that further drives efficiencies by leveraging already-existing equipment and processes while also reducing exposure to fluctuations in foreign currency. The battery packs that power LEAF are built in an adjacent facility in Smyrna while the vehicle's electric motor comes from Nissan’s powertrain plant in Decherd, Tenn., further supporting efficient manufacturing.
Eligible consumers can take advantage of a $7,500 federal tax credit, and some states and municipalities offer additional incentives. For example, California residents can get a 2013 Nissan LEAF for as low as $18,800 after the federal tax credit and state rebate of $2,500.
Nissan will also continue its lease offer for the 2013 LEAF, allowing consumers to lease the electric vehicle for as low as $199 per month for 36 months, which includes tax credits and destination charges.
Now in its third model year, the Nissan LEAF has nearly 50,000 cumulative sales worldwide. For 2013, the LEAF features numerous customer-focused upgrades. LEAF is powered by an 80 kW AC synchronous motor produced at Nissan’s Powertrain Assembly plant in Decherd, Tenn. The 2013 LEAF’s output is 107 hp (80 kW), with 187 lb-ft (254 N·m ) of torque. Energy is supplied by an advanced 48-module lithium-ion battery made at the new battery plant in Smyrna, Tenn.
The 2013 Nissan LEAF is offered in three models, the LEAF S, LEAF SV and LEAF SL.
The standard features in the S include 6-way manual driver’s seat; 4-way manual front passenger’s seat; trip computer (instant and average energy consumption, driving time, outside temperature and autonomy range); Automatic Temperature Control (ATC); center console storage; and 3.6 kW onboard charger. Other standard equipment includes Nissan Intelligent Key with Push Button Start; Bluetooth hands-free phone system; power windows with driver’s window one-touch auto up/down; power door locks with auto locking feature; remote charge door release; variable intermittent windshield wipers; AM/FM/CD with MP3 playback capability; and a 12-volt power outlet.
LEAF SV models are upgraded to 16-inch aluminum alloy wheels; a 6.6 kW onboard charger; cruise control; auto dimming rear view mirror; energy-saving hybrid heating system; an upgraded 6-speaker sound system; 7-inch color LCD display; Pandora link for iPhone users; Nissan Navigation system with CARWINGS telematics; and B-mode setting for increased regenerative braking.
LEAF SL adds leather-appointed seats; 17-inch five spoke alloy wheels; DC 480V fast charge port; automatic on/off LED headlights; fog lights; photovoltaic solar panel rear spoiler; and HomeLink Universal Transceiver.
The incremental aerodynamic and energy management improvements in the updated 2013 LEAF are expected to improve the range over previous model years. Final range estimates for the 2013 Nissan LEAF are awaiting EPA test cycle verification.
That is how to sell electric cars - make them cheap enough so people can actually afford them.
Delete fancy features and make simple cars at more affordable price points.
And increase the range.
All of which they have done.
Posted by: mahonj | 15 January 2013 at 01:07 AM
The fact that the base model comes without cruise control is pure cruelty. I don't care much for fancy rims and won't get lost without a navigation system, but a car without cruise control is a no-no for me.
In a modern car, the cruise control is a matter of a few lines of computer code and a control sitck on the steering wheel. All necessary sensors and motor controls are already there.
I faced the same problem with my entry level Prius. The dealer was able to order just a separate control stick, mount it on the steering wheel and connect it to the designated cruise control input connector that is present in all models. Total cost: 250 euros.
Posted by: Arne | 15 January 2013 at 04:36 AM
An 18% price decrease PLUS 14% range increase( http://gas2.org/2012/11/20/next-nissan-leaf-makes-japanese-debut-with-more-range-low-priced-s-model/ ) AND $199/month lease should help get the new US Leaf assembly line busy.
Next year or two, maybe a new, cheaper chemistry battery drop-in with >>100 mile range.
Related, I first drove a C-Max yesterday and it was WAY too much fun for 47 mpg. What C-Max PR needs is some hyper-milers documenting >50 mpg.
Posted by: kelly | 15 January 2013 at 08:18 AM
Its more likely they just were forced to greatly lower the price to increase sales. Most likely they upped the budgeted loss they planned all along by say anouther half billion or so.
Posted by: wintermane2000 | 15 January 2013 at 09:50 AM
"Related, I first drove a C-Max yesterday and it was WAY too much fun for 47 mpg. What C-Max PR needs is some hyper-milers documenting >50 mpg."
Wayne Gerdes over at cleanmpg.com did just that, 67mpg.. but normal drivers are getting less than 40mpg. The C-Max is much more energetic than a Prius, and the added frontal area and Cd dont help. You will get 47mpg at constant 60mph cruise on flat land.
Posted by: Herm | 15 January 2013 at 12:57 PM
With EV batteries performance going up and their price going down to $100/kWh (or even less) soon, small BEVs price will soon drop to $20K or so.
A small (under 2000 lbs) basic BEV with a $2K, (20+ kWh) battery pack will soon be available in India and/or China for around $10K or even less.
Wlll another 1,000,000,000 very low cost small e-vehicles create unmanageable traffic jams in most major cities?
Posted by: HarveyD | 15 January 2013 at 01:42 PM
The "very low cost small e-vehicles" may be e-bikes, in which case, the answer is no.
There are 120 M of them in China already.
Posted by: mahonj | 15 January 2013 at 02:57 PM
Perhaps there is a niche market for a secondary, small, no-frills BEV kept at a commuter's home for local excursions or to and from commuter rail services.
OT it looks like NY State may at (very) long last pass some legislation that will permit some sort of on-road use of electric bicycles. I'm hopeful but not holding my breath.
Posted by: E-Biker | 15 January 2013 at 04:33 PM
Here a few basic reasons why the majority of Americans will not buy a smaller car.
1. Over 207,000,000 (or 66%) are over-weight.
2. Over 78,000,000 (or 25%) are obese.
3. Only 116,000,000 (or about 33%) have normal weight.
Since both 1) and 2) are going up steadily, increased sales of smaller cars in USA may not be for tomorrow, unless the middle and lower classes continue to get poorer and will not be able to afford larger vehicles.
Posted by: HarveyD | 16 January 2013 at 05:05 PM
It's amazing that a safe US vehicle can improve over %5 annually in EV range, 5% lower annualy in price, and do it without even installing a more modern or cheaper battery yet.
Posted by: kelly | 17 January 2013 at 12:48 PM
Yes Kelly...there are many ways to improve EVs (hybrids and ICEVs too) performances. However, improved batteries may be the only way to get 500+Km e-range per quick charge. To get there, 600+ Wh/Kg batteries are required. Those batteries may not be available till 2020 or so, but they will come?
Posted by: HarveyD | 20 January 2013 at 10:15 AM
As WM2k sez; "Its more likely they just were forced to greatly lower the price to increase sales. Most likely they upped the budgeted loss they planned all along by say another half billion or so."
Posted by: ToppaTom | 21 January 2013 at 07:35 PM
It was great to see the old printshop and everyone who works there again. I am excited to see a printing business still operating and growing, great job guys. small business accounting
Posted by: Jerry John | 18 February 2013 at 02:18 AM