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 tailpipe emissions. Regulatory compliance was achieved through its fully electric drivetrain, meeting Euro 5 and later Euro 6 standards for zero-emission vehicles (ZEV) as defined by EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007.
One documented service consideration is degradation of the inverter’s IGBT (Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistor) modules under sustained high-load conditions, as noted in Nissan Service Information Bulletin NTB14-098. This was often linked to prolonged operation at maximum power output in hot climates. Nissan implemented revised thermal management strategies and updated service procedures for affected units.
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 EM10 provides effortless, silent acceleration ideal for city driving but requires the dedicated NS-3 gear oil to be changed every 120,000 km to protect the reduction gearbox. The liquid cooling system for the motor and inverter must be maintained; coolant should be replaced per the service schedule to prevent IGBT module overheating, as per NTB14-098. Battery state-of-health (SOH) is the primary factor affecting overall performance. Avoid sustained use of 'B' mode on long descents to prevent excessive heat buildup in the motor windings.
Oil Specs: Requires Nissan EV-specific NS-3 gear oil for the reduction gearbox (Nissan Owner's Manual Leaf ZE0).
Emissions: Certified as Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) under Euro 5/6 (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9001). No tailpipe emissions.
Power Ratings: Peak power is 80 kW; continuous power is lower to manage thermal load (Nissan TIS Doc. N10-020).
Nissan Technical Information System (TIS): Docs N10-020, N14-098
Nissan Service Information Bulletin: NTB14-098
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9001)
EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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.
Locate the motor identification plate riveted to the side of the motor housing, near the high-voltage connector (Nissan TIS N10-020). The VIN for ZE0 Leaf models will have a specific model code indicating the 24 kWh battery pack, which is paired exclusively with the EM10 motor. The motor is visually identified by its compact, cylindrical shape mounted transversely at the front of the vehicle, connected directly to the single-speed reduction gearbox. Critical differentiation from the later EM57 motor: EM10 is used only with the 24 kWh battery pack in ZE0 models, while EM57 is used with 30/40 kWh packs in AZE0 models. The motor assembly part numbers are specific to the EM10.
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.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about NISSAN LEAF-EM10.
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