Nissan this weekend unveiled the Leaf – its new battery-powered electric car. The Nissan Leaf is pitched as ‘the world’s first affordable, zero-emission car’, a bespoke EV for global sale.
The range of the Nissan Leaf is more than 100 miles – enough for 70% of people’s driving requirements, says Nissan, and it can seat five adults. It’ll be launched in late 2010 in Japan, Europe and the US.
Carlos Ghosn, Nissan CEO, said: ‘We have been working tirelessly to make this day a reality – the unveiling of a real-world car that has zero – not simply reduced – emissions. It’s the first step in what is sure to be an exciting journey – for people all over the world, for Nissan and for the industry.’
Ok, ok. Forget the hoopla. How much will the Nissan Leaf cost?
No prices announced yet, but the Leaf will apparently be ‘competitively priced in the range of a well equipped C-segment vehicle.’ Sounds to us like just under £20,000. Government grants are expected in most territories.
Nissan Leaf: the tech spec
Laminated lithium-ion batteries provide a power output of more than 90kW, driving an 80kW electric motor. One of the bonuses of EVs is the instant thrust afforded by an electric motor – in the Leaf’s case, there’s 207lb ft of pull.
A quick charge will restore 80% of the Nissan’s charge in just under 30 minutes; charging at home with a 200v outlet will take around eight hours.