THE ground-breaking LEAF has won yet another prestigious award it has been announced.
At the New York International Auto Show this week, the 100-per cent electric hatchback has been named 2011 World Car of the Year – and it’s beaten the BMW 5 Series and the Audi A8 in the process.
Nissan Chairman and CEO Carlos Ghosn, said: ‘It is a great joy that the world’s first, mass-marketed electric vehicle, the Nissan LEAF, has won the prestigious award of 2011 World Car of the Year.
‘This accolade recognises Nissan LEAF, a pioneer in zero-emission mobility, as comparable in its driving performance, quietness and superb handling to gas-powered cars. And it validates Nissan’s clear vision and the values of sustainable mobility that we want to offer to customers around the world.’
The World Car of the Year competition was launched in 2004, with winners chosen by a panel of automotive journalists from Asia, Europe and North America.
The World Car Awards jurors noted: ‘The LEAF is the gateway to a brave new electric world from Nissan. This five-seater, five-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 eight hours to recharge using 220-240V power supply and produces zero tailpipe emissions. Its low centre 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.’
Along with Renault, Nissan is also aiming to be the world leader in zero-emission vehicles and has formed partnerships with more than 90 governments, cities and other organisations around the world not only to develop and produce EV and lithium-ion batteries, but also to promote sustainable mobility.
An improvement of charging service, infrastructure, and the promotion of recycled materials are all part of the promotion of sustainable mobility.