Nissan has unveiled what it is calling the “world’s first affordable, zero-emission car” – an electric hatchback called the Leaf.

The vehicle, which is designed to seat five adults and achieve a range of more than 100 miles per recharge (160km), could be built in the UK at the Nissan plant in Sunderland.

The Leaf is scheduled for a launch in late 2010 in Japan, the US and Europe.

Nissan said the lithium-ion battery powered chassis was the culmination of “decades of investment and research”, and that the car heralded a “new era of mobility – the zero emission era”.

The Japanese company’s president and chief executive, Carlos Ghosn, said the Leaf was a “tremendous accomplishment” for Nissan.

Mr Ghosn 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.”

Pricing details will be announced in 2010, as the car goes on sale. However, Nissan insisted it would be “competitively priced” with other compact cars.

Range

The 100-mile range of the Leaf would make it suitable for 70% of the world’s car drivers according to the company’s research.

The car’s lithium-ion batteries deliver a power output above 90kW, while its electric motor offers 80kW of power.

Nissan claims the car can be charged to 80% of full capacity in just under 30 minutes with a quick charger, although charging at home would most likely take eight hours.

The manufacturer pointed out that the vehicle would most likely qualify for local tax breaks and incentives. For example in London, electric vehicles are exempt from the congestion charge.

The relative simplicity of the electric car compared to petrol-powered vehicles would make it “friendly to the wallet”, Nissan added in its launch notes.

Sunderland

Nissan Motor Company is to create an advanced Lithium-Ion battery production facility at its UK plant in Sunderland.

Along with a similar plant in Portugal, the Sunderland facility will produce batteries for Nissan’s electric cars set for the European market. Each plant will be capable of making 60,000 units a year.

Prime Minister Gordon Brown said of the project: “Sunderland could now be a strong contender to produce electric vehicles for Nissan in Europe, and we will continue to work with Nissan to ensure this happens.”