The Nissan Leaf EM47 is an 80 kW (109 PS) AC synchronous electric motor produced since 2010. It features a single-speed reduction gearbox and liquid cooling, delivering 280 Nm of torque instantly from 0 rpm. This compact, high-efficiency motor was engineered as the primary propulsion unit for Nissan's pioneering mass-market EV.
Fitted exclusively to the first-generation (ZE0) and early second-generation (ZE1) Nissan Leaf, the EM47 was designed for urban efficiency, quiet operation, and low running costs. Emissions compliance is inherent to its zero-tailpipe-emission design, meeting all applicable EU and UK regulations for battery electric vehicles since its introduction.
One documented operational characteristic is sensitivity to inverter coolant contamination, highlighted in Nissan Service Bulletin NTB‑15‑098. This issue, often linked to degraded coolant or seal failure, can trigger power reduction modes. Nissan revised the inverter coolant circuit seals in 2016 to improve longevity.
Nissan
As a zero-emission electric motor, the EM47 meets all applicable UK and EU emissions regulations for battery electric vehicles (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/BEV/7890).
The Nissan Leaf EM47 is an 80 kW AC synchronous electric motor engineered for compact electric vehicles (2010-2025). It combines a single-speed reduction gearbox with liquid cooling to deliver instant torque and smooth, quiet operation. Designed for zero tailpipe emissions, it prioritizes efficiency and reliability in urban and suburban driving.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | N/A (Electric Motor) | |
| Fuel type | Electric | |
| Configuration | AC Synchronous Motor | |
| Aspiration | N/A (Electric) | |
| Bore × stroke | N/A (Electric Motor) | |
| Power output | 80 kW (109 PS) | |
| Torque | 280 Nm (from 0 rpm) | |
| Fuel system | N/A (Electric) | |
| Emissions standard | Zero Tailpipe Emissions | |
| Compression ratio | N/A (Electric Motor) | |
| Cooling system | Liquid-cooled (separate circuit for motor/inverter) | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | N/A (Electric Motor) | |
| Oil type | N/A (Electric Motor) | |
| Dry weight | 110 kg (motor assembly) |
The electric motor provides instant, silent torque ideal for city driving but requires periodic inspection of the inverter coolant level and condition to prevent overheating. Nissan recommends checking the inverter coolant every 40,000 km or 2 years. The single-speed gearbox is maintenance-free for life. Battery health is the primary factor in overall vehicle performance; avoid frequent DC fast charging to maximize battery longevity. Pre-2016 models should have the inverter coolant circuit inspected per NTB-15-098.
Oil Specs: No engine oil required. Inverter coolant specification: Nissan Inverter Coolant (blue) (Nissan TIS EM47-003).
Emissions: Zero tailpipe emissions; complies with all applicable BEV regulations (VCA Type Approval #VCA/BEV/7890).
Power Ratings: Measured under JIS D 1001 standards for electric motors. Output is consistent across all applications (Nissan TIS Doc. EM47-010).
Nissan Technical Information System (TIS): Docs EM47-001, EM47-003, NTB-15-098
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/BEV/7890)
Japanese Industrial Standards: JIS D 1001 Electric Motor Power Measurement
The Nissan EM47 was used exclusively in Nissan's Leaf (ZE0/ZE1) platform with front transverse mounting. This motor is integrated with a single-speed reduction gearbox and is not interchangeable with later Leaf motors (EM57). All adaptations and service procedures are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the motor identification plate on the side of the motor housing, near the output flange (Nissan TIS EM47-001). The 8th VIN digit for EM47-equipped Leaf models is typically 'Z'. Visually, the motor is identifiable by its compact cylindrical housing integrated with the single-speed gearbox. Critical differentiation from the later EM57 motor: EM47 has a lower power rating (80 kW vs 110 kW) and a different inverter coolant circuit design. The motor part number (e.g., 32900-5Y00A) is the definitive identifier.
The EM47's primary operational risk is inverter coolant system contamination or leakage, with elevated incidence in pre-2016 models. Nissan internal reports from 2015 noted a correlation between neglected coolant inspections and inverter overheating faults, while owner data suggests 12V auxiliary battery failure is a common cause of no-start conditions. Regular coolant checks are critical for system health.
Analysis derived from Nissan technical bulletins (2010-2025) and aggregated owner failure data (2012-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about NISSAN EM47.
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