Here's how the World Car Awards jurors justified their vote:
“The Leaf is the gateway to a brave new electric world from Nissan. This 5-seater, 5-door hatchback is the world's first, purpose-built, mass-produced electric car. It has a range of over 100 miles on a full charge claims Nissan, takes around 8 hours to recharge using 220-240V power supply and produces zero tailpipe emissions. Its low center of gravity produced sharp turn-in with almost no body roll and no understeer. The good news? It feels just like a normal car, only quieter.”
Launched in 2004, the World Car of the Year competition assesses cars with the help of a panel of automotive journalists from Asia, Europe and North America.
“This accolade recognizes Nissan LEAF, a pioneer in zero-emission mobility, as comparable in its driving performance, quietness and superb handling to gas-powered cars,” said Nissan Chairman and CEO Carlos Ghosn. “And it validates Nissan’s clear vision and the values of sustainable mobility that we want to offer to customers around the world.”
Currently available in Japan, the United States and select European markets, the Leaf will be launched in other global markets in 2012. The EV is built at Nissan’s Oppama plant in Japan, with U.S. and UK manufacturing to follow in late 2012 and early 2013 respectively (in Smyrna, Tennessee and Sunderland).
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Post Title → Nissan Leaf Car of the year 2011
