Uganda’s transition to sustainable transport is gaining momentum, and the upcoming 2nd National E-Mobility Expo 2025, slated for September 18–19 at the Kiira Vehicle Plant in Jinja, is expected to be a turning point. While the event will feature everything from electric motorcycles to buses and e-bikes, one model is already generating major buzz—the Nissan LEAF.
What Makes the LEAF Stand Out?
The Nissan LEAF is one of the world’s most successful electric vehicles and is now officially in Uganda. Unlike other EVs that often remain out of reach for many, the LEAF has built its reputation on combining performance, technology, affordability, and sustainability—making it not just a vehicle, but a symbol of smart urban mobility and environmental responsibility.
Power and Range for Daily Life
The LEAF runs on a 40kWh lithium-ion battery that delivers a range of up to 275 km per full charge. For city commuters, business professionals, or tech-savvy early adopters, this range is more than sufficient for everyday use.
Charging is designed for convenience. A standard 240V home charge takes about 7.5 hours, ideal for overnight use. For busier lifestyles, the Quick Charge mode powers the battery from 20% to 80% in just 60 minutes, ensuring drivers spend more time on the road and less waiting around.
Performance Beyond Expectations
Far from the myth that electric means slow, the LEAF packs impressive strength. Its EM57 AC synchronous electric motor produces 110 kW of power and 320 Nm of torque, offering instant acceleration. Coupled with a single-speed direct drive, the car delivers smooth, uninterrupted performance.
The e-Pedal technology is a standout feature, enabling drivers to accelerate, decelerate, and brake with a single pedal—perfect for navigating Kampala’s stop-start traffic.
Safety First
The LEAF doesn’t compromise on safety. It comes with six airbags, ABS with brake assist, electronic brake distribution, and a suite of Nissan Intelligent Mobility tools. Features such as Forward Emergency Braking, Hill Start Assist, Driver Alert Assist, Vehicle Sound for Pedestrians, and Intelligent Trace Control make driving safer for both motorists and pedestrians. Added innovations like the Around View Monitor and Moving Object Detection provide extra confidence in crowded or tight spaces.
Comfort and Practicality
Inside, the LEAF is built for a relaxing ride. It offers heated leather seats, automatic climate control, multiple USB ports, and a 5-inch infotainment display with Bluetooth, AUX, and USB connectivity. With 435 litres of cargo space and foldable rear seats, it adapts easily to errands, road trips, or family outings.
The sleek exterior—marked by aerodynamic lines, a floating roof, and 17-inch alloy wheels—gives it a futuristic appeal, while the floor-mounted battery keeps its centre of gravity low for improved stability.
Ownership in Uganda
Ugandans can own the LEAF in two ways. An outright purchase costs $66,000, while a lease option is available at $1,870.3 per month, inclusive of free service and maintenance every 5,000 km. Both options offer huge long-term savings since EVs cut out fuel expenses, frequent maintenance, and oil changes.
The Bigger Impact
The LEAF is more than a car; it’s part of Nissan’s Intelligent Mobility vision—a strategy focused on building smarter, cleaner cities. For Uganda, where transport emissions weigh heavily on urban air quality, adopting vehicles like the LEAF could be transformative, aligning with global climate targets while creating a cultural shift towards cleaner, more responsible transport.
What to Expect at the Expo
At the National E-Mobility Expo 2025, Ugandans will not only see the LEAF but also get the chance to experience it first-hand. The Expo offers a glimpse into what the future of driving in Uganda could look like—quiet, efficient, affordable, and sustainable.
