Nissan to offer electric LEAF for $349 a month

March 31, 2010

Nissan's LEAF will be available to order from August

The Nissan LEAF, one of the first mass-produced all-electric cars set for the US market, will be priced at $25,280 after a $7,500 federal tax credit, its manufacturer said yesterday.

Lease plans for the five-door vehicle will start at $349 a month over 36 months, with a $1,999 deposit, not including local rebates.

The company is planning to make its LEAF vehicle available for purchase or lease at Nissan dealers in select markets this December, it said, then nationwide in 2011.

Those keen to get their hands on a LEAF will be able to put their names on the reservations list from April 20.

Without federal subsidy, the manufacturers’ price for the LEAF would be $32,780. This includes three years of roadside assistance, the company said.

Drivers in some states may also be able to gain state or local incentives for using cleaner transport, such as the $5,000 rebates on offer in California and Georgia and the $1,500 tax credit in Oregon.

Brian Carolin, senior vice president of Sales and Marketing at Nissan North America, said the LEAF would be the “first affordable, zero-emission vehicle for the mass market”.

Commenting on the LEAF, he said: “Imagine the possibility of never needing to go to a gas station again. Or of paying less than $3 for 100 miles behind the wheel. Or of creating zero emissions while driving.”

100-mile range

The LEAF is being designed to achieve a 100-mile range before needing a recharge, and the vehicle will have a 90mph top speed.

Nissan says the battery will charge in 4-8 hours on a 220V home charging unit, while at quick-charge stations, it will charge to 80% in about 26 minutes.

Nissan said its LEAF would come well-equipped with features, including energy-efficient LED headlights. Among the extras that will be available will be solar panel spoilers, the company said.

Nissan’s reservation process starts with a visit to the company’s website at NissanUSA.com and payment of a $99 refundable reservation fee.

Firm orders for vehicles will be taken from August, 2010.

Nissan will be offering personal charging docks for its customers, based on the 220-volt system supplied by California-based AeroVironment, for $2,200 including installation. The charging docks will be eligible for a 50% federal tax credit.