Tesla Model S

Tesla Motors is now taking orders for the Tesla Model S, an all electric family sedan that carries seven people and travels 300 miles per charge.

The Tesla Model S, which carries its charger onboard, can be recharged from any 120V, 240V or 480V outlet, with the latter taking only 45 minutes. By recharging their car while they stop for a meal, drivers can go from LA to New York in approximately the same time as a gasoline car. Moreover, the floor-mounted battery pack is designed to be changed out in less time than it takes to fill a gas tank, allowing for the possibility of battery-pack swap stations.

The floor-mounted powertrain also results in unparalleled cargo room and versatility, as the volume under the front hood becomes a second trunk. Combining that with a four-bar linkage hatchback rear trunk and flat folding rear seats, the Tesla Model S can accommodate a 50-inch television, mountain bike *and* surfboard simultaneously. This packaging efficiency gives the Tesla Model S more trunk space than any other sedan on the market and more than most SUVs.

‘Tesla Model S doesn’t compromise on performance, efficiency or utility – it’s truly the only car you need,’ said Tesla CEO, Chairman and Product Architect Elon Musk. ‘Tesla is relentlessly driving down the cost of electric vehicle technology, and this is just the first of many mainstream cars we’re developing.’

Tesla expects to start Tesla Model S production in late 2011. The company believes it is close to receiving $350 million in federal loans to build the Tesla Model S assembly plant in California from the Dept of Energy’s Advanced Technology Vehicle Manufacturing Program.

Building on Proven Technology

Tesla is the only production automaker already selling highway-capable EVs in North America or Europe. With 0-60 mph in 3.9 seconds, the Tesla Roadster outperforms almost all sports cars in its class yet is six times as energy efficient as gas guzzlers and delivers 244 miles per charge. Tesla has delivered nearly 300 Roadsters, and nearly 1,000 more customers are on the wait list.

Teslas do not require routine oil changes, and they have far fewer moving (and breakable) parts than internal combustion engine vehicles. They qualify for federal and state tax credits, rebates, sales tax exemptions, free parking, commuter-lane passes and other perks. Tesla Model S costs roughly $5 to drive 230 miles – a bargain even if gasoline were $1 per gallon.

The anticipated base price of the Tesla Model S is $49,900 after a federal tax credit of $7,500. The company has not released options pricing. Three battery pack choices will offer a range of 160, 230 or 300 miles per charge.

‘Tesla Model S costs half as much as a Roadster, and it’s a better value than much cheaper cars,’ Musk said. ‘The ownership cost of Tesla Model S, if you were to lease and then account for the much lower cost of electricity vs. gasoline at a likely future cost of $4 per gallon, is similar to a gasoline car with a sticker price of about $35,000. I’m positive this car will be the preferred choice of savvy consumers.’

The standard Tesla Model S does 0-60 mph in under six seconds and will have an electronically limited top speed of 130 mph, with sport versions expected to achieve 0-60 mph acceleration well below five seconds. A single-speed gearbox delivers effortless acceleration and responsive handling. A 17-inch touchscreen with in-car 3G connectivity allows passengers to listen to Pandora Radio or consult Google Maps, or check their state of charge remotely from their iPhone or laptop.

With a 300-mile range and 45-minute QuickCharge, the $49,900 Tesla Model S can carry five adults and two children in quiet comfort – and you can charge it from any outlet, without ever stopping for gas. World’s first mass-produced electric vehicle offers performance, efficiency and unrivaled utility with twice the energy-efficiency of hybrids, making Tesla Model S the only car you’ll ever need.

At a Glance: Model S Show Car

The Model S Show Car is a drivable vehicle that exemplifies Tesla’s ‘no compromises’ philosophy – an elegantly refined luxury sedan delivering optimal performance without sacrificing efficiency. Designed by Franz von Holzhausen, the car’s aggressive stance gives way to a modern silhouette, with minimal front and rear overhangs for maximum space efficiency. The car’s mature face defines the future of the Tesla brand and incorporates the touches from the Tesla Roadster. Environmentally friendly materials are incorporated throughout, including water-based paint for the exterior, chrome-free vegetable tanned Italian leather on interior, and 100 percent recycled PET carpeting from Futuris.

Ford Escape Hybrid Pricing and Review

A new powertrain lineup, with a more powerful and fuel-efficient 2.5-liter I-4 engine and a new six-speed automatic transmission, leads the list of enhancements for the 2009 Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner models.

Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner, the popular compact SUVs, boast better fuel economy, thanks to a combination of the new engine and fuel-saving six-speed transmission. Other fuel-efficiency measures, such as refined aerodynamics and new low-rolling-resistance tires, also enhance fuel economy while contributing to a quieter, more refined cabin environment.

Escape and Mariner for 2009 also introduce Easy Fuel™ capless refueling, ambient lighting and standard cruise control. A 3.0-liter V-6 engine with 20 percent more horsepower and a 1 mpg fuel economy improvement also is available.

Standard on all Escape and Mariner models are an anti-lock braking system and Ford’s exclusive AdvanceTrac® with RSC® (Roll Stability Control). The only available electronic stability control system with two gyroscopic effect sensors, AdvanceTrac with RSC measures vehicle motion about both the yaw and roll axes.

Ford Motor Company today has more than 80 patents worldwide for this innovative system, which features roll-rate sensing and stability enhancement capability, offering assistance to the driver in maintaining vehicle control during extreme maneuvers. The system automatically engages counter measures to help the driver maintain maximum control and reduce the risk of rollover.

‘We’re offering customers more power with better fuel efficiency and comfort,’ said David Finnegan, Ford Escape marketing manager. ‘The 2009 Escape and Mariner also have a quieter ride and better handling. They’re engaging and fun to drive.’

New 2.5-liter I-4 Engine Debuts

The 2009 Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner offer a new, 171-hp, 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with intake variable cam timing (i-VCT) for enhanced fuel economy and performance.

The new engine is expected to gain 1 mpg in both city and highway fuel economy when equipped with the new six-speed transmission, as compared to the previous model’s smaller-displacement 2.3-liter engine and four-speed automatic.

The new engine offers an 11 percent increase in power output versus the 2.3-liter (153 hp). This gives Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner a 1.7-second improvement in 0-60 mph acceleration.

‘With gas prices rising, we want to offer our customers even more fuel-efficient vehicles,’ says Ron Razzano, Escape/Mariner vehicle engineering manager. ‘But more fuel efficiency doesn’t need to reduce performance. We tried to give our customers more of both, so there wouldn’t be any compromise with Escape and Mariner.’

Responsive with its peak 171 lb.-ft. of torque at 4500 rpm, the engine also is refined, with dual-mode crankshaft damping, electronic throttle control and PowerPC engine electronic control. Key new elements of the engine design include intake and exhaust manifolds, camshafts, pistons and bore size.

The i-VCT technology optimizes the valve timing for performance and efficiency, creating a broad torque curve and delivering increased power and improved fuel efficiency at the same time.

The powertrain also incorporates electronic throttle control (ETC). This technology replaces the manual linkage between accelerator and throttle with a control unit that calculates the optimal throttle position from a number of sensors. ETC is a form of the state-of-the-art, drive-by-wire technology.

Escape Hybrid and Mercury Hybrid also will feature a version of the new engine that uses the fuel-efficient Atkinson Cycle for combustion.

New Six-Speed Transmission Saves Fuel

The new I-4 engine’s full fuel efficiency potential is enhanced when it is equipped with the optional 6F-mid-range six-speed automatic transmission. A five-speed manual transmission is standard equipment.

‘The introduction of the six-speed is a big enhancement for Escape and Mariner,’ Razzano said. ‘A taller top gear reduces engine speed while cruising and shifting at lower rpms in each gear help make the new six-speed 4 to 6 percent more fuel efficient than the four-speed it replaces.’

The new six-speed is calibrated for cruising fuel efficiency without sacrificing launch feel and performance feel in lower gears. A wider range of gear ratios is key to the six-speed transmission’s ability to deliver this combination of performance and fuel economy.

Other Fuel Efficiency Improvements

Beyond the major technology upgrades, the 2009 Escape and Mariner development team focused on key details such as tire technology and aerodynamic efficiency to deliver an overall 1 mpg fuel economy improvement, helping make each tank full go farther.

Escape and Mariner feature new low-rolling-resistance tires, developed in cooperation with Michelin.
The new 16-inch Michelin Latitude Tour design features a unique mold design, reduced weight and a new-generation tread pattern optimized for reduced fuel consumption.
Aerodynamic refinements that account for increased fuel efficiency include a redesigned front bumper spoiler and new rear tire spoilers, the first application on a Ford SUV.
Additionally, Electric Power Assist Steering (EPAS) is featured on both the standard and hybrid models of Escape and Mariner. EPAS replaces the traditional hydraulic power steering pump. Because it operates only when required for steering assistance, it contributes to lower fuel consumption than the hydraulic pump, which operated constantly during engine operation.

Improved Fuel Efficiency, Performance to 3.0-liter V-6 Engine

Escape and Mariner’s new 3.0-liter V-6 engine also improves for 2009, leveraging a new 10.3:1 compression ratio to gain 40 hp compared with the 2008 3.0-liter.

The 240-hp V-6 is equipped with i-VCT and ETC along with new cylinder heads, intake and exhaust cams, injectors, intake and exhaust manifolds, and pistons. This engine uses Ford’s new six-speed transmission exclusively in place of the four-speed automatic used previously.

Enhanced Dynamics, Ride Comfort

The 2009 Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner feature a series of chassis system upgrades that improve dynamic capability, steering response and ride comfort.

The vehicles’ suspension has been revised and retuned, with the addition of a new rear stabilizer bar and revised shock absorber tuning, helping to deliver a balance of enhanced ride comfort and handling confidence. The steering system also has been retuned for better control and tighter cornering capabilities.

‘When it comes to steering, it’s about finding the proper balance between tire performance and steering dynamics,’ Razzano says. ‘With Escape and Mariner, we found that balance, giving optimal car-like drivability and increased responsiveness.’

The braking system of the Escape and Mariner also incorporates improvements. The development team’s efforts focused on enhancing initial braking system responsiveness and making further fine-tuning calibrations for the ABS, resulting in better brake feel and shorter stopping distances.

Hybrid Models Enhanced, Too

Fresh from their most successful sales year, the Escape Hybrid and Mariner Hybrid for 2009 bring an array of new features and technologies to strengthen their claim as America’s most fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly SUVs.

Hybrid versions of Escape and Mariner saw combined sales up approximately 10 percent last year.

For 2009, the Hybrid models will use the new 2.5-liter I-4 designed to run on the Atkinson combustion cycle. A new engine processor enables nearly imperceptible transitions between gas and electric vehicle mode. The hybrid models also feature a new powertrain damping system to reduce vibrations and feedback to the driver and other vehicle occupants.

The Hybrids’ braking system also has been refined. Engineers achieved a more seamless transition from electric regenerative braking system to traditional braking operation. A new brake pedal sensor is at the heart of the improvements.

With the introduction of the 2009 models, the Escape Hybrid adds a new model, the Escape Limited Hybrid. Along with its gas counterpart, the Escape Limited Hybrid features 16-inch, six-spoke bright machined aluminum wheels and exterior chrome accents, a standard AM-FM/six-CD changer, chrome and ebony interior touches and a luxury and convenience package that includes ambient lighting, heated front leather seating surfaces, a power moonroof and retractable cargo area cover.

Escape Limited Hybrid models also offer standard SecuriCode™ keyless entry.
The introduction of Escape Limited comes as result of continued dialogue with customers who have asked to receive all the accessories and equipment expected in higher-specification versions of the base vehicle, Finnegan said.

Sustainable Comfort

The 2009 Escape and Mariner score in both comfort and sustainability with the addition of new comfort-designed seats. The seats include soy-based foam that substitutes for petroleum-based products to conserve limited resources and reduce CO2 emissions.

Eco-friendly seat fabrics also are offered on Escape made from post-industrial 100 percent recycled materials.

‘These vehicles show that we can combine performance with sustainability,’ said Finnegan. ‘Customers can be environmentally responsible and still have a vehicle that provides the utility of an SUV and is fun to drive.’

Escape/Mariner Safety Technologies

The 2009 Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner feature an array of safety technologies, including:

AdvanceTrac® with RSC®
Safety Canopy™, a side air curtain technology offering protection for the first and second seating rows
Personal Safety System®, a suite of seven safety technologies, including new dual-stage front air bags for the driver and front-seat passenger, side air bags and a front passenger sensor system
Tire Pressure Monitoring System
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system on rear seating positions

Features and Connectivity

Earth-friendly and high-end amenities go hand-in-hand on the 2009 Escape and Mariner Hybrids. Both feature:

SYNC – Developed by Ford and Microsoft, this award-winning in-car communications and entertainment platform allows users to control most MP3 players and Bluetooth®-enabled mobile phones hands-free using voice commands. Standard on Escape Limited and Escape Hybrid, and on Mariner Premier, Premier V-6 and Mariner Hybrid models. SYNC is optional on all other models.
SIRIUS® Satellite Radio – Escape XLT and Limited, Mariner Premier and Premier V-6 and all hybrid models are equipped with SIRIUS® satellite radio, with the receiver module and roof-mounted antenna. Customers receive an initial six-month SIRIUS® subscription.
Voice-Activated Navigation with SIRIUS® Travel Link™ – Escape and Mariner offer an optional voice-activated navigation system, which includes an AM-FM/six-disc in-dash changer, seven speakers and a subwoofer.
Ambient Lighting is standard on Escape Limited and Escape Limited Hybrid as well as Mariner Premier and Premier V-6.
Steering wheel audio controls are standard on all Mariner models.
An auxiliary input jack in the instrument panel center stack is offered as standard equipment for the ease of connecting MP3 players to the audio system.
All 2009 Escape and Mariner hybrid models feature a standard 110V AC power outlet.

Ford Escape Hybrid Pricing

[table id=16 /]

Gallery

GMC Sierra Hybrid – A Hybrid Truck

The 2009 GMC Sierra Hybrid is a powerful full-size pickup that achieves 40-percent greater city fuel economy and a 25-percent improvement in overall fuel economy while delivering the capability expected of a full-size truck – including a 6,100-pound (2,767 kg) towing capacity.

Partnering General Motors’ patented two-mode hybrid system and a powerful 6.0L gas V-8, the Sierra Hybrid delivers highly efficient performance, including all-electric driving up to 30 mph (48 km/h). That allows fuel savings to be realized even when the truck is fully loaded or towing a trailer.

"The Sierra Hybrid represents GMC’s commitment to engineering excellence, delivering a fully functional truck that offers a significant improvement in fuel economy," said Jim Bunnell, GMC general manager. "Sierra Hybrid will deliver fuel economy that is expected to be the best in the full-size pickup segment, exceeding the current mileage leader – the non-hybrid Sierra."

The Sierra Hybrid goes on sale in the fourth quarter of 2008 and is based on the strong and capable Sierra platform that was introduced for the 2007 model year. It will be offered in the Crew Cab body style on both 2WD and 4WD models. Each model is equipped with several standard, popular features, including StabiliTrak electronic stability control system, a locking rear axle and a trailering package. Sierra Hybrid also offers dual-stage frontal air bags and head curtain side air bags, and it is the only full-size truck with five-star side-impact ratings in federal crash tests.

Hybrid Details

The Sierra Hybrid’s fuel-saving performance is derived from GM’s advanced Electrically Variable Transmission (EVT) and 300-volt nickel-metal hydride Energy Storage System (ESS), which work in concert with the standard 6.0L V-8 gasoline engine with Active Fuel Management (AFM) and late intake valve closing (LIVC) technology. GM’s hybrid technology system not only enables the Sierra to launch and drive up to 30 mph on electricity alone, it also allows the Vortec 6.0L V-8 engine to operate in its more economical V-4 mode for longer periods.

As part of the vehicle’s emission control system, the ESS is warranted for eight years/100,000 miles.

With GM’s two-mode hybrid system, the electric power used to propel the vehicle is generated by the hybrid system itself. When the brakes are applied or the vehicle is coasting, the electric motors within the hybrid system create electricity that is stored in the 300-volt battery. This stored energy is used to move the vehicle and the regenerative braking cycle is renewed.

The two-mode hybrid system provides seamless, dependable power on demand in an efficient package. In fact, its electric motor is less than half the size of those in single-mode hybrid systems. This technology was developed and is still used in fleets of hybrid transit buses in more than 70 North American and European cities. Scaled-down for use in passenger vehicles, the two-mode system delivers fuel savings where it is needed most – in large vehicles with high levels of capability. The two-mode system was first introduced on the 2008 Yukon Hybrid. It is a core part of GM’s energy diversity efforts, which are centered on reducing dependence on petroleum, improving fuel economy, reducing emissions and minimizing the automobile’s impact on the environment.

With the fuel savings of the hybrid system and Sierra’s 26-gallon (98-liter) fuel tank, the Sierra Hybrid has a cruising range of more than 500 miles (800 km).

Quiet and Smooth

Integration of the hybrid system on the Sierra is seamless – the battery pack is located beneath the rear seat – and perceptible only in what it lacks: noise.

"The Sierra Hybrid is exceptionally quiet," said Mark Cieslak, vehicle chief engineer. "From a passenger’s perspective, the refinement of the hybrid system is quite evident throughout the driving experience, and showcases itself when the vehicle is moving under electric power."

Contributors to the quiet driving experience include:

New exhaust system and resonator tuned for the 6.0L engine’s Active Fuel Management operation
Additional engine intake induction tuning for reduced interior noise and pleasing sound quality
Low-rolling resistance, ‘quiet-tuned’ P265/65R18 tires for reduced road noise
Electrically driven 300-volt air conditioning compressor reduces vibration and allows the standard, tri-zone HVAC system to cool the passenger compartment even when the gasoline engine is shut off
Electrically driven 42-volt variable-assist power steering reduces vibration and provides up to a 0.5-mpg fuel economy improvement by reducing parasitic losses common in belt-driven hydraulic systems
Energy Storage System (ESS) cooling system internal fan is tuned to be quiet at low vehicle speeds when the fan could more easily be heard by the occupants

Along with quietness, the Sierra Hybrid also delivers exceptional driving smoothness, thanks to specifically tuned shocks for its Z85 suspension and a new hydraulic body mount. Located on the passenger side of the chassis, the hydraulic mount provides a dramatic improvement in highway driving smoothness, particularly on rough or choppy road surfaces.

"The hydraulic mount makes a dramatic improvement in ride quality," said Cieslak.

Additional details specific to the Sierra Hybrid include aerodynamic aids. A slightly deeper front air dam and a tonneau cover for the bed reduce air drag, fostering maximum efficiency.

Trailering Performance

In addition to increased fuel economy, the Sierra Hybrid’s electrically variable transmission also provides tremendous trailering capability, enhancing driving smoothness and quality when towing. Electric drive is enabled up to approximately 30 mph (48 km/h), even when towing, allowing fuel savings when the truck is towing a trailer.

"Along with being very smooth, the EVT always provides abundant torque at all rpm levels for easy towing," said Cieslak. "It is particularly helpful on grades, as the EVT’s greater ratio spread allows the engine to hold optimal rpm for smooth, steady performance, with no hunting between higher and lower gears."

The EVT incorporates grade braking and tap up/tap down shift control. It also benefits towing on curves or lower-speed back roads, as exceptionally smooth gear transitions eliminate the ‘shift shock’ torque disruption that can occur during abrupt shifts, such as when slowing or braking.

In addition to the eight-year/100,000-mile warranty on the Sierra Hybrid’s Energy Storage System, GM’s Five-Year/100,000 Mile Powertrain Limited Warranty continues to make GM a better choice for customers. GM’s coverage focuses on the complete ownership experience and includes other provisions that competitors do not offer, including transferability to the next owner, more complete coverage of parts, and coverage for new and certified used vehicles. In addition, GM offers complementary programs such as courtesy transportation and roadside assistance.

Mitsubishi i MiEV

Mitsubishi Motors is accelerating its drive toward greater environmental responsibility and reinforcing its Drive@Earth global sustainability initiative by announcing its commitment to develop the pure electric, four-passenger Mitsubishi i MiEV for global markets.

Ending months of heightening speculation, Mitsubishi Motors North America President and CEO Shinichi Kurihara confirmed the i MiEV (Mitsubishi Innovative Electric Vehicle) is being developed for sale in world markets, including the United States.

"Electric vehicles are one branch of the automotive landscape and we are dedicated to providing these technology-sourced solutions as an important path for the world’s clean-air options," explained Kurihara, who stood alongside a Left Hand Drive i MiEV during his address to journalists at the New York International Auto Show. "We believe the i MiEV delivers on the promise of sustainability, suitable range, performance, and innovative packaging and styling"

The award-winning Mitsubishi i MiEV is expected to be the world’s first practical electric vehicle offered by a major automobile manufacturer when fleet sales begin this July in Japan.

State of Oregon and Portland General Electric Join Partnership

Kurihara was pleased to also announce that the State of Oregon and Portland General Electric (PGE) (NYSE:POR) are joining Mitsubishi in the i MiEV partnership program. "State of Oregon Governor Ted Kulongoski is a progressive thinker who is providing a roadmap of the future," commented Kurihara. "The State of Oregon and Portland General Electric will become valuable partners in helping validate the future of all electric vehicles."

Details of the programs are being finalized, but the findings from these real-world, independent tests will play an important role in further advancing the car’s development for the U.S. market.

"Oregon welcomes the partnership with Mitsubishi as we transition to the next generation in vehicle technology. Together, we can build a consistent and reliable infrastructure so consumers can make the switch seamlessly to electric vehicles," Governor Kulongoski said. "The partnership shows that a state can create opportunity for its commitment to a greener future – wins for our economy and our environment."

PGE is rolling out a network of charging stations across its service territory in Oregonand the addition of i MiEVs further facilitates its support of next-generation electric vehicles. PGE currently has more than a dozen charging stations up and running.

"We are developing a model charging station infrastructure across our service territory to advance the electric vehicle market in Oregon for our customers," said Jim Piro, president and CEO, PGE. "Our customers are number one in the nation in purchasing renewable power so clearly they are committed to sustainability. We expect Oregon to be one of the top markets for next generation electric vehicles. We look forward to partnering with Mitsubishiand the state of Oregon this important project."

Mitsubishi i MiEV Performance

Based on the successful Japanese market "i" car, the electric version replaces the i’s conventional gasoline engine, transmission and fuel tank with an advanced lithium-ion battery system, electric motor and on board charging system. Unique rear mid-ship architecture allowed Mitsubishi Motors to seamlessly integrate the new components under the seats, luggage compartment and floor deck, meaning no compromise in interior cabin space. In fact, there are few visual sight cues that indicate the vast technological differences between the gasoline and electric models.

With its high-torque electric motor and clever packaging, the i MiEV offers an intelligent combination of useful performance with small physical and carbon footprints, plus a roomy interior and a sensible range of approximately 80 miles from its advanced lithium-ion battery pack.

The i MiEV’s battery pack consists of 22 modules, each one consisting of four cells that can be installed in either a vertical or transverse position under the i MiEV’s floor. The i MiEV’s onboard charger automatically adapts between a standard 110 outlet – which takes 12-14 hours – or half that time on 220. There is also a fast charge connector that allows the battery to reach 80 percent of capacity in just 30 minutes.

The proprietary lithium-ion batteries are purpose-built for automotive applications. It is produced by Lithium Energy Japan, a joint venture among GS Yuasa, Mitsubishi Corporation and Mitsubishi Motors.

2011 Nissan LEAF: Design Aimed at Mainstream Appeal

Nissan designers had several goals in mind when they sat down and put pen to paper to design the new Nissan LEAF electric car. Nissan had no intention of following others in designing a radical car that would only appeal to EV enthusiasts. Instead they wanted to focus on designing a car that was immediately identifiable as an EV, yet subtle enough to appeal to everyone.

While designing the LEAF, Nissan had several hurdles they encountered along the way. EVs by their very nature, tend to be designed with the main goal of aerodynamic efficiency. The GM EV1 is a prime example of aerodynamics driving design. This vehicle has a low cd, but lacks widespread appeal, or as designers would say, the design was polarizing creating a love it hate it relationship. Nissan had no intention of designing a vehicle that few would like. The LEAF is after all considered to be one the first EVs for every family.

Instead Nissan needed a distinct design, but could not eliminate the need for an aerodynamic vehicle. Creating an attractive vehicle that meets aerodynamic requirements is no small feat.

Nissan designed the vehicle as a familiar looking five door car rather than following the fastback styling of hybrids such as the Prius or the Insight. Though unique, the LEAF’s hatchback layout is also well accepted in most places across the globe.

According to Nissan’s chief creative officer Shiro Nakamura, "From the beginning, we did not want to make the car very strange, because one of the perceptions of the EV is that people think EVs are toys, or cheap…that you cannot drive high-speed, that EV means not real car. But the car we have is a real car- you can drive it at 140 km, you can sit four or five passengers comfortably."

The design appears successful as the upright stance affords a spacious interior with plenty of room for at least four people. Aerodynamics were not overlooked though as the LEAF has a smooth underbody, a unique headlight design that manages airflow around the front of the vehicle and a smooth front end with a unique logo that hides the charging port.

The rear wheel arches manage airflow in a manner similar to that of the enclosed wheel housings of an EV1, but manages to do so in a manner that is more acceptable to the general buying public.

The LEAF’s design is all about widespread appeal. Some may argue against its looks, some may love its looks, but it really becomes a matter of personal taste rather than a question of whether or not you are willing to drive a hideous EV to make the statement about your concerns for the environment.

Hybrid Car Freak

All About Hybrid Cars

Category Archives: Hybrid Car Reviews