Leading Environmentally-friendly Affordable Family-car. That’s an acronym that accurately describes the Nissan Leaf. Reaching American and Japanese public at the end of 2010, as a 2011 model, the Nissan Leaf has delivered everything the manufacturer claims. This hatchback is an all-electric car that emits zero harmful gases or emissions and was initially available for $32,780.
Like was stated, the first customers to receive the Leaf were those American and Japanese consumers, in late 2010. One year later, in November 2011, the Leaf was being marketed in Portugal, France, Norway, the Netherlands, Spain, Switzerland, Belgium and Canada.
The increasing popularity of the Nissan Leaf has been backed by several accolades. It was the recipient of the 2010 Green Car of the Year Award, 2011 European Car of the Year, 2011 World Car of the Year, 2011 Car of the Year Japan and 2012 Car of the Year Japan.
Everything about the Leaf is designed to conserve power and energy. The LED headlights consume 50% less electricity than standard halogen headlights. Not only is the body of the car designed to be highly aerodynamic, but the bottom panel is also designed to reduce drag, while increasing aerodynamics. The engine is powered by an 80 kilowatt battery that can generate a whopping (just kidding) 110 horsepower. Unlike many electric and hybrid cars, the Leaf has an impressive driving range of up to an EPA-estimated 100 miles. However, cruising at 38 MPH, the Leaf has a range of 138 miles. Not that you would ever cruise at that speed for that long. However, according to research, it will take 9 years of driving the Leaf for the payback value of not using fuel to affect consumers.
