As the electric vehicle revolution gains momentum in Pakistan, we delve into the owner's experience with the 2022 Nissan Sakura 660 cc, a Kei category fully electric model introduced on 20 May 2022 as Nissan's first battery electric Kei-car. Join us as we explore the insights of a Sakura owner navigating the roads of Pakistan.
Price of Nissan Sakura
The total cost of importing a reconditioned Nissan Sakura model was approximately Rs 7.1 million a couple of months ago. However, with growing demand and fluctuating exchange rates, this figure has seen an increase.
Battery Capacity
Powering the Sakura is a 20 kWh gross capacity battery. Nissan claims a range of 180 km, but the owner's real-world experience suggests an estimated range of around 130-135 kilometers when using the air conditioning.
Charging Time of Nissan Sakura
Nissan Sakura comes equipped with a single-phase wall-mounted charger, offering a full charge in the comfort of your home in approximately 6 hours. However, when connected to an industrial charger, the charging time significantly reduces to just about 40 minutes, ensuring you spend less time waiting and more time on the road.
Electric Unit Cost
For those concerned about the cost of charging, the Sakura consumes approximately 16-17 units of electricity for a full charge, translating to an economical cost of around Rs. 1,500.
Interior and Features
Inside the Nissan Sakura, you'll find a welcoming interior adorned with soft, comfortable sofa-styled seats, generous legroom, and a sleek, modern dashboard. The car boasts an impressive array of features, including anti-collision assist, a 360-degree camera for enhanced visibility, touch climate control for optimal comfort, and Bluetooth connectivity for seamless communication.
The Sakura also offers various drive modes, including eco, standard, and sports, catering to different driving preferences. Additional features encompass brake hold, regenerative braking for improved efficiency, front and rear cameras, and the added safety of 4 airbags.
Ground Clearance of Nissan Sakura
Concerns about ground clearance are common on Pakistani roads, especially for Japanese models. However, the Sakura owner reassures that this electric gem provides a commendable clearance and features a soft suspension that rarely scrapes over speed breakers, ensuring a smooth ride.
Nissan Sakura specifications
| Battery | Lithium-ion |
| Battery capacity | 20 kWh |
| Output | 47 kW |
| Torque | 195 Nm |
| Top speed | 130 km/h |
| Range (WLTC mode） | Up to 180 km |
| Charging time*8 | Standard charge: 8 hours (from battery warning light illuminated to fully charged） Quick charge: approximately 40 minutes (from battery warning light illuminated to 80% charged) |
| Length | 3,395 mm |
| Width | 1,475 mm |
| Height | 1,655 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,495 mm |
| Weight (depending on model and equipment) |
1,070 kg – 1,080 kg |
| Luggage capacity | 107 liters |
| Seating capacity | 4 |
Body Parts Availability
One of the practical advantages of the Nissan Sakura is that its parts are interchangeable with its gasoline counterpart, the Nissan Dayz Highway Star. This compatibility makes it easier for owners to source components locally, reducing maintenance hassles.
Precautions
To ensure the longevity of the Nissan Sakura, owners are advised to refrain from direct water spray on the vehicle's batteries and avoid driving through flooded areas, safeguarding the vital electrical components.
In conclusion, the 2022 Nissan Sakura EV presents a promising option for those looking to embrace electric mobility in Pakistan. With its respectable range, convenient charging options, and a wealth of features, it offers a comfortable and efficient driving experience. Moreover, the reassuring ground clearance and local parts compatibility make it a practical choice for Pakistani roads.
However, like all EVs, it demands prudent care and precautions, particularly when it comes to its sensitive electrical components. As Pakistan's electric vehicle landscape evolves, the Nissan Sakura is undoubtedly a noteworthy contender in the market.
