The Nissan Leaf EM10 is an 80 kW (107 PS) permanent magnet synchronous electric motor produced between 2010 and 2017. It features a compact, liquid — cooled design integrated with a single — speed reduction gearbox. This motor delivers 280 Nm of instant torque from 0 rpm, providing smooth, quiet acceleration ideal for urban environments.
Fitted exclusively to the first — generation Nissan Leaf (ZE0), the EM10 was engineered for efficiency, low running costs, and zero tail…
Nissan
As a zero-emission vehicle (ZEV), the EM10 powertrain meets all applicable Euro 5 and Euro 6 standards for tailpipe emissions (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9001).
The Nissan Leaf EM10 is an 80 kW permanent magnet synchronous motor engineered for compact EVs (2010-2017). It combines a liquid-cooled stator with a single-speed reduction gearbox to deliver instant, linear torque and exceptional efficiency. Designed as a zero-emission powertrain, it complies fully with Euro 5 and Euro 6 ZEV regulations.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | N/A (Electric Motor) | |
Fuel type | Electric | |
Configuration | Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor | |
Aspiration | N/A | |
Bore × stroke | N/A | |
Power output | 80 kW (107 PS) | |
Torque | 280 Nm (from 0 rpm) | |
Fuel system | N/A | |
Emissions standard | Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) - Euro 5/6 | |
Compression ratio | N/A | |
Cooling system | Liquid-cooled (separate circuit for motor/inverter) | |
Turbocharger | None | |
Timing system | N/A | |
Oil type | Dedicated EV Reduction Gear Oil (NS-3) | |
Dry weight | 110 kg (motor assembly) |
The Nissan Leaf EM10 was used exclusively in Nissan's ZE0 platform with front-wheel-drive, transverse mounting. This motor received minor control software updates across its production run (2010-2017), but the core hardware remained consistent, creating no significant interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The EM10's primary reliability risk is inverter IGBT module degradation, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to frequent high-power demand in hot climates. Nissan service data indicated this was the most common electronic failure point for early ZE0 Leafs, while the motor itself is otherwise exceptionally robust. Neglecting inverter coolant maintenance makes proactive fluid changes and avoiding extreme loads critical.
Analysis derived from Nissan technical bulletins (2010-2017) and aggregated workshop data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
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The EM10 motor itself is extremely reliable long-term with no internal wear items like pistons or valves. The primary concerns are electronic (inverter) and ancillary (coolant pump, gearbox). With proper maintenance of the cooling system and gearbox oil, the EM10 can easily last the life of the vehicle, often exceeding 200,000 km without major motor issues.
The most common serious issue is inverter IGBT module failure, often triggered by heat. Other frequent problems include wear in the reduction gearbox bearings (if oil is not changed), failure of the inverter coolant pump, and corrosion in high-voltage connectors. These are well-documented in Nissan service information.
The EM10 motor was used exclusively in the first-generation Nissan Leaf (model code ZE0) from 2010 to 2017. It was paired specifically with the 24 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. It was not used in any other Nissan model.
No, the EM10's power output is strictly controlled by the factory ECU and inverter software for thermal and safety reasons. There are no widely available or safe aftermarket methods to increase its power output. The focus for Leaf owners is typically on preserving battery health rather than increasing performance.
Efficiency is measured in kWh/100km. The ZE0 Leaf with EM10 typically achieves 14-16 kWh/100km in mixed driving. This translates to a real-world range of 120-150 km on a full 24 kWh charge, depending on driving style, climate, and use of climate control.
Yes, but not engine oil. The EM10's integrated single-speed reduction gearbox requires a specific electric vehicle gear oil (Nissan NS-3) that should be changed every 120,000 km. The electric motor itself requires no lubrication changes.
The EM10 requires minimal maintenance. Key tasks include changing the reduction gearbox oil (NS-3) every 120,000 km, replacing the inverter/motor coolant as per the service schedule, and periodic inspection of high-voltage connectors and coolant hoses. There is no timing belt, spark plugs, or oil filters to replace.
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