CAR buyers can make ‘staggering’ savings by running an all-electric Nissan LEAF.
That’s the message from Karl Gooda, the Electric Vehicle Relationship Manager at Desira Nissan, Norwich.
And he acknowledged that although there is a higher initial outlay when buying a LEAF, the month-on-month cost savings are enormous and well worth highlighting to potential buyers.
Karl kindly answered a few questions about his role selling and promoting the Nissan LEAF.
How long has the LEAF been available at your dealership?
Desira Nissan, Norwich was amongst the first wave of electric vehicle dealers to open in the UK, with pre-orders beginning in September 2010 and the first lucky customers taking delivery in March 2011.
Do you find interest is increasing as time goes by?
I wouldn’t say that interest is increasing as such – however, the people coming in to look at the Nissan LEAF are very knowledgeable about the various options available to them. They have decided that an electric vehicle is definitely the right option for them prior to stepping into a car showroom.
How many LEAFs have been sold at Desira Nissan?
I have to date supplied 16 Nissan LEAFs, and out of those 16 customers, I have heard nothing but extremely positive things.
Any particular characteristics that people are saying they like?
The level of equipment that comes with the Nissan LEAF is superb, and the ride comfort and the quietness of the ride are second to none.
Anything they’re not so keen on?
The only issue I have faced on the Nissan LEAF is from one customer who commented that the internal door trim, around the handle, can get a bit grubby as the trim material is a light colour.
What are your views about the future of EVs?
I believe that electric vehicles over the next five to 10 years will increase in numbers and gradually take a bigger section of the market share. With more electric vehicles on the road and an increased and established charging infrastructure, range anxiety will be alleviated and there is no reason why the electric vehicle will not be a great success.
Is access to charging points for EVs an issue?
Perception of the charge network is that there aren’t many charge points available. However, this website shows the current positions to be better than at first thought: https://www.zap-map.com/indexnissan.php
With current fuel price being £1.32 per litre for petrol and £1.42 for diesel, and the prices set to soar even higher, the running cost of the Nissan LEAF at approximately £1.70 per 100 miles is significantly cheaper than the most fuel-efficient car on the market.
There is initially a high price when purchasing the Nissan LEAF, but the cost savings month on month are staggering.
Image how much quieter city life could be if more of the cars on the road were electric!