Although still relatively small, the electric car segment is growing. We need only look at the many new 100% electric-powered models that have emerged over the past year for irrefutable proof. A few weeks ago, another electric vehicle joined the party, the all-new 2018 Nissan Leaf.

Unveiled under a blazing sun in Las Vegas, the second generation Nissan Leaf was one of the most anticipated models of the year in any category. After all, it was the Leaf that set the ball rolling for EVs in Canada six years ago, and the fact that it's now improved in every way with exclusive technologies and greater range is certainly great news.

All of these improvements should help the 2018 Nissan Leaf attract even more buyers to the electric car.

A better range and a larger capacity battery for the 2018 Nissan Leaf

The 2018 Nissan Leaf gets an improved version of the engine that powered the previous generation under its hood. Now boasting 236 lb-ft of torque and acceleration to 100 km/h in 8.5 seconds, the new Leaf will definitely be more dynamic and even more fun to drive.

But what's most interesting about the 2018 Leaf is the new 40 kWh battery. This battery is able to power the electric motor for 241 kilometers instead of the 172 kilometers offered in the previous Leaf. Thanks to this gain in range, the 2018 Leaf is now ahead of the vast majority of its direct competitors, which are the Ford Focus Electric, the Kia Soul EV, the Hyundai Ioniq and the Mitsubishi i-Miev.

It will be possible to recharge this battery using a 120-volt outlet, or even 240-volt. It will take between 8 hours and 16 hours depending on the means used to recharge the Leaf.

This gain in autonomy is not negligible, and as we said earlier, it should reassure many consumers who were hesitant to go electric. With 241 kilometers of range, the 2018 Nissan Leaf covers even more of the trips we might have to make, and takes the concessions we might have to make based on our lifestyle down a notch.

Exclusive technologies in the 2018 Nissan Leaf

The Nissan Leaf is ultimately a technology showcase for Nissan, so it's no surprise that it offers several exclusive technologies and features. In fact, the Nissan Leaf will offer two new systems for the first time on a Nissan vehicle, Nissan ProPilot and e-Pedal technology.

Let's start with ProPilot. In short, it's a collection of driver assistance features that aim to reduce driver fatigue and stress. The system uses a series of cameras and sensors to monitor the road and can take control of the steering to keep the Leaf in the right lane, automatically brake if another vehicle suddenly passes you or if there is congestion, and maintain a preset distance from the vehicle in front of you when cruise control is activated.

The second technology, the e-Pedal feature, allows you to control the 2018 Leaf using only the gas pedal. In effect, when you lift your foot off the right pedal, the car brakes to a complete stop as if you had applied the brakes.

With 283,000 units sold worldwide, the success of the Nissan Leaf is just beginning. The new 2018 Leaf will go on sale in early 2018 starting at $35,998 and will qualify for the $8,000 rebate offered by the Quebec government.