With the global rise in EV demand, Japan's export market for electric vehicles (EVs) has also become increasingly active. Among them, the 2018 Nissan Leaf ZAA-ZE1 stands out as a highly reliable and cost-effective model, gaining strong popularity in a wide range of markets including Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.
In this article, we provide a data-driven analysis based on actual Japanese auction results, with a focus on insights that directly support sales in your local market.
- 1. What is the ZAA-ZE1 Nissan Leaf?
- 2. Real Auction Price Range (As of May 2025)
- 3. Auction Price by Vehicle Grade (For Practical Use)
- 3.1. Key Takeaways for Business:
- 4. Sourcing Strategy for Overseas Buyers
- 4.1. Europe, UK, Ireland (EV-friendly Tax Systems):
- 4.2. UAE & Middle East (Well-developed EV Infrastructure):
- 4.3. Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa (Be Aware of Import Restrictions):
- 5. Why Choose Provide Cars for Your Sourcing?
- 6. Final Thoughts: Why 2025 Is a Great Year to Import
What is the ZAA-ZE1 Nissan Leaf?
| Model Code | ZAA-ZE1 |
| Year | 2018 (early second-generation) |
| Motor Output | 110kW (approx. 150 horsepower) |
| Battery Capacity | 40kWh |
| Real-World Range (WLTC) | Approx. 322km |
| Charging | CHAdeMO fast charging and 200V normal charging |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
| Drive Type | Front-wheel drive (FF) |
In the Japanese domestic market, many of these vehicles are considered “near-new,” with excellent exterior and interior conditions.
Real Auction Price Range (As of May 2025)
| Category | Price |
|---|---|
| Highest Winning Bid | ¥3,150,000 |
| Lowest Winning Bid | ¥152,000 |
| Average Winning Bid | Approx. ¥1,057,000 |
Price variations are mainly due to auction grades (vehicle condition), mileage, and equipment levels.
Auction Price by Vehicle Grade (For Practical Use)
| Grade | Min Price | Max Price | Avg Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3.0 | ¥329,000 | ¥1,654,000 | ¥614,000 |
| 3.5 | ¥152,000 | ¥2,875,000 | ¥721,000 |
| 4.0 | ¥240,000 | ¥2,200,000 | ¥991,000 |
| 4.5 | ¥244,000 | ¥2,743,000 | ¥1,222,000 |
| 5.0 | ¥491,000 | ¥2,688,000 | ¥1,682,000 |
Key Takeaways for Business:
- Grade 4.0–4.5: Offers the best balance of volume, quality, and price. This segment shows the highest resale turnover rate.
- Grade 5.0: High-end units, close to new condition. Ideal for resale in premium markets.
- Grade 3.0–3.5: Lower-priced vehicles, but may include units with accident history, repairs, or notable wear. Suitable for parts or low-cost markets.
Sourcing Strategy for Overseas Buyers
Europe, UK, Ireland (EV-friendly Tax Systems):
- High demand for RHD (right-hand drive) vehicles makes Japanese exports advantageous.
- As of 2025, Nissan Leaf units have already proven compatible with VRT schemes in countries like Norway and Ireland.
UAE & Middle East (Well-developed EV Infrastructure):
- Low-mileage units with Grade 3.5+ are in high demand.
- Extensive CHAdeMO fast-charging networks mean Japanese EVs are plug-and-play ready.
Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa (Be Aware of Import Restrictions):
- Import eligibility depends on year and grade.
- 2018 models are still within the allowable import window, making demand particularly high in early 2025.
Why Choose Provide Cars for Your Sourcing?
- Real-time auction access to all major venues across Japan
- Translation of inspection sheets, battery health checks, accident verification
- Export documents and COC support (optional)
- Inland transport to ports, shipping bookings (RoRo/Container), all handled professionally
▶ Start bidding with your dealer account now: https://www.provideauctions.com/cars/join.asp
Final Thoughts: Why 2025 Is a Great Year to Import
- 2018 ZAA-ZE1 Leafs are widely available at stable prices.
- Leverage your local EV incentives or tax exemptions to boost profit margins.
- Import rules are tightening globally—speed in procurement → registration → resale is critical for success.
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