Nissan Leaf

The Nissan Leaf has been named as Car of the Year 2011.  The first 100% electric vehicle to do so which is no mean feat.  Undoubetedly this has been influenced by its 'green' credentials and a desire from the judges to be promoting more sustainable transport however as opposed to it really being a much 'better' car in drive and build terms than its contempories.

The Nissan Leaf will go on sale in the United Kingdom in March 2011 at a price of £23,990 including the new 20% VAT but after discounting the Plug-in-Car-Grant of £5,000 that comes into effect in January 2011 (so an RRP of £28,990).  This is a great electric car but despite the government incentive, the Leaf price still will be around £4,000 more expensive than the price of a basic Toyota Prius.  Unsurprisingly, some of the Leaf's main competitors, the Mitsubishi i-MiEV, Peugeot iOn and Citreon C-Zero are also retailing at exactly £28,990.

Technical Specifications

BATTERY
Battery type - laminated lithium ion
Voltage - 360V
Capacity - 24kWh 
Number of cells - 192

CHARGER
On-board charger - 3.3kW
Quick charger (optional extra) - 50kW
Charging cable  -  6m long and 4.0kg
   
PERFORMANCE   
Electricity consumption - 173Wh/km 
CO2 mass emission (Combined) - 0g/km 
Max. speed  - 145km/h
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h in 11.9sec
Min. turning circle (kerb to kerb) - 10.4m

Nissan Leaf - Top Trumps Stats

Manufacturer:
Availability: Now
Top Speed: 90
Acceleration: 0-62mph in 11.9 secs
Range (max): 109
Max Charge Time:
Price: 28990