Nissan is bringing gas-free car technology to the United States starting around December of this year.  The highlight of Nissan’s 2011 model year is the Nissan Leaf.  Not only is it a sport little four-door hatchback, it’s also going to be Nissan’s first gas-free car.  That’s right, it’s that long-awaited plug-in electric car, and it’s expected to start a price war.  The Leaf will retail for about $25,000 after a $7,500 government rebate, putting it well within the price range of most of America.  The low price, and its $349-per-month leasing option, makes the Leaf a competitor to the Chevy Volt in spite of a lack of backup gas engine.

Will America embrace a car with only a 100-mile range?  Doubtful.  While that’s definitely good enough for the daily drive, America is a country that loves its road trips.  I doubt gas stations will let you plug in your car for several hours while you wait.  While the Leaf gets more charge in its batteries, it also requires 8 hours of charge time on a 220-volt line; the Volt requires only 8 hours on a 110-volt circuit, or only 4 on a 220 line.  I can’t overstate the value of Chevy’s backup generator engine technology enough.

Image: New York Times

Tags: electric cars, Nissan Leaf, Nissan to debut 000 electric car, alternative fuels, plug-in car, new cars, electric car price wars, automotive industry, Chevy Volt, all-electric car versus plug-in hybrid

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