Nissan Reveals Newest Zero Emission Vehicle Line, the Hatchback “Leaf”-

Nissan Motor Company recently uncovered its newest electric vehicle line boasting absolutely zero emissions, the 5-seater hatchback “LEAF”. The LEAF will be made available in America and Japan near the close of 2010 and will be releasing two other models to follow shortly after. “We are seeing electric cars not as a niche car but as a mass-market car,” Nissan’s Chief Executive Carlos Ghosn told reporters. “The big problem is going to be (production) capacity.” The car is described as a “powerful car, like having a turbo” charger, although there is no lag in response time since the gear shift is nonexistent. The price tag has not been determined, but the company alleges that the cost should compare to that of a similar gas engine vehicle if they choose not to go with the expensive lithium ion battery that they are currently considering. The Nissan LEAF can reach speeds over 76 mph and has a cruising range of at least 100 miles, which the company claims covers the needs of 80 percent of the world’s drivers. For years, Ghosn has understated the value of hybrid cars in the competing market, stating that electric cars are a far better option for both consumers and manufacturers to save cash in spite of the vehicle’s limited cruising ability. He has recently reiterated, however, that Nissan will offer hybrid cars as the market demands, with current plans to launch their exclusive development of more high-end hybrid models. “It’s going to take some time before we have a complete, full (electric vehicle) product line-up from entry level to the top,” he said. “In the meantime, you just cannot abandon the market — you’re going to have to continue to develop your product line-up with combustion engine, clean diesel, hybrids, etc.”