All You Ever Wanted to Know about the Nissan LEAF

We cannot ignore the fact that there has been a huge "green" push over the last few years -- encouraging sustainability, lower emissions, and countless hours researching and testing new technologies. For the car industry, this led to the birth of the Hybrid vehicle and eventually the creation of an all-electric vehicle. The Nissan LEAF (which is FINALLY HERE! by the way..), is the first all-electric vehicle with absolutely no emissions and ZERO GAS. No gas. That means no waiting in line, no worrying about the rising price of gas, and no more abuse of the earth's limited natural resources. Now, we all know that a battery won't stay at 100% forever. There will be times when you have to charge your battery. However, the advanced technology that goes into the Nissan LEAF has created long-lasting batteries with an equivalence of 100 miles per gallon when to compared to non-electric vehicles. Also, we're seeing charging stations begin to sprout up everywhere with even Walgreens adding charging stations to their parking lots!

Here's a Q&A from Nissan's website about charging a LEAF.

    Q: How much will my electric bill go up by recharging my Nissan LEAF™ at home?
    A: This will vary by vehicle usage and your electric rate. We strongly recommend that you contact your electricity provider to discuss special rates or incentives that may be available prior to getting an in-home assessment for your charging dock.
    Q: If I want to "prewire" a new home for a future Nissan LEAF™ owner, what is required?
    A: The home charging dock will require a 220/240V 40 amp dedicated circuit connected to a breaker. The charging dock will need to be hard-wired directly to the circuit by a certified electrician.
    Q: Is the home charging station weatherproof?
    A: Yes, the home charging dock is weatherproof.
    Q: When plugging the car in, will it be possible that the car is "smart"enough to pull electricity during non peak hours?
    A: You can program the car to charge whenever you like. Most people will charge overnight at off-peak times like their cell phone.
    Q: What is the estimated price of the home-installed charging station components? Are they separate from the cost of the car?
    A: The average estimated cost of a standard home charging dock installation in a typical new home is approximately $2,000 plus tax and license fees. Federal tax credits may offset a portion of the costs.
    Q: Is there a timer that allows you to set what time the charging starts and stops?
    A: Yes – you are able to set a charging timer in the car. You will also be able to control the car’s functions and charging from any computer or internet-enabled phone.
    Q: Will the charger be built into the vehicle?
    A: Yes. To charge, you will simply need to plug in to an appropriate charging dock which supplies power safely to the charger.
    Q: What is the estimated time for full charging with 110v, 220v and fast charge stations?
    A: It takes about ~30 minutes to 80% at a 480 volt quick-charge station. Starting from a depleted battery, ~7 hours at 220/240V (depending on amperage), about 20 hours at 110/120V.
    Q: Can you install a charging station by yourself or does it have to be installed by a qualified electrician?
    A: Your home charging dock will need to be installed by a professional electrician. But first, we will assist you with a home assessment which will help identify what is needed to make your home Nissan LEAF™ ready.

    Q: How long will it be before you can charge a car anywhere? Like at a gas station?
    A: Nissan is working to encourage third party and government organizations to grow the charging infrastructure. As electric vehicle acceptance grows we expect additional growth. We do believe most people will charge their Nissan LEAF™ at home much like they do their cell phones.
    Q: Can you charge the battery even if it's not empty?
    A: Yes
    Q: Does the navigation system list charging station locations?
    A: The Nissan LEAF™ comes equipped with CARWINGS®. This in-car telematics system will show you battery power and status, charging stations, and more.
    Q: If you run out of power will a "AAA" tow truck have a recharger or would you need to be towed to a recharge station?
    A: The car is equipped with a telematics system called CARWINGS® which will help you locate charging stations before this happens. Additionally, AAA has recently announced an EV-charging pilot program
    Q: Are you working with power companies to develop fast charging stations using higher voltage?
    A: We are working with governments and companies to foster a large network of fast-charging facilities. You can join the effort. Check out the advocacy tools on the website as a starter.
    Q: Is the Nissan LEAF™ going to have an onboard charging system of some kind for emergency back up?
    A: Your Nissan LEAF™ will be delivered with a 110/120V Trickle charge cable that works with the onboard charging system. As the name implies this will be primarily used for opportunity charging and is not recommended to be your primary method of charging. For that we have the Nissan home charging dock which uses a 220/240V dedicated line in your home.
    Q: What do I do if I want to go farther than 100 miles in one trip?
    A: The Nissan LEAF™’s CARWINGS® system will be able to show you charging locations along your route.
    Q: How many charging cycles can the energy storage device survive?
    A: Like all lithium ion batteries, the Nissan LEAF™ battery will experience gradual capacity loss over time. We expect the battery to last over 10 years, however, there may be a gradual loss of capacity of 30% or more depending on your driving patterns, and the effect on your battery. The battery can be used afterward for storage applications.
    Q: Will it plug into a regular household outlet?
    A: It will charge on a regular 110/120V 20-Amp dedicated outlet. This is considered a "trickle charge," which means it would charge at a slower rate. For home charging, we recommend a home charging dock on a dedicated 220/240V, 40A circuit.
    Q: I live in an apartment. How would I go about charging the car?
    A: Talk to your apartment complex owner and other residents about charging stations. You can also use public infrastructure as it becomes available.
    Q: What happens if you run out of electricity on the road?
    A: CARWINGS® is a telematics system in the Nissan LEAF™ which will constantly update to show your vehicle and battery status, as well as charging locations, should you need them.
    Q: You need the infrastructure first. Why would I buy the car when I would be tethered to my home for charging?
    A: Most people will charge their car like a cell phone – at home overnight. We are also actively working with all levels of government and private corporations to grow the public infrastructure.
    Q: Is an upgrade to my home electrical system required to set up the charging station?
    A: A professional evaluation of your home electrical system is part of the overall purchase process. You can start by signing up for Nissan LEAF™ information.
    Q: Since the Nissan LEAF™ solely runs on electricity, would charging from home dramatically increase my electricity bill?
    A: Based on a US average of $0.11/kWh, a full charge will cost about $2.75. It could be even less, if your area has time-of-use rates and you charge at off-peak hours.
    Q: How much will it cost to charge Nissan LEAF™ at a charging station?
    A: The national average electricity cost is $0.11/kWh. That means the average cost to charge the car would be $2.75 from Empty to Full.
    Q: Is there any initiative to develop non-home charging options?
    A: Yes – Nissan is working with all levels of government and private corporations to develop public and work-based charging locations.
    Q: How long does it take to charge?
    A: Most people will charge it like a cell phone overnight at home. A full charge will take ~7h on a 220/240V home charging station. A 480V quick-charging capability will eventually be available in many markets once a standard is set.
    Q: Will there be multiple options on how/where to charge up?
    A: Absolutely. You’ll be able to charge at home, possibly at work and at stations along your route. Options will grow as infrastructure is developed.
    Q: Will there be a standard power plug (110/220V), or do we have to buy a proprietary power outlet or power station?
    A: For home charging we recommend using a Home Charging Dock wired directly to a 220/240 volt 40 amp circuit to supply power to the vehicle.

I’m excited to see more and more people enjoy the Nissan LEAF and move towards sustainable options. This growing technology will completely change the automotive industry. The Nissan LEAF is both sustainable and practical. Its charge is long lasting, it has amazing styling, and it offers a lot of space and comfort! Stop by our dealership today to test drive the all-new Nissan LEAF.

P.S. Ever thought of electric aircraft? http://www.txchnologist.com/volumes/aviation/move-over-electric-car-the-electric-airplane-is-coming

Green Lantern Star Ryan Reynolds Endorses Nissan Leaf

This article is brought to you by University Nissan of Boone, North Carolina. To view the original article, please click here. 

GREEN LANTERN STAR RYAN REYNOLDS STEPS IN TO HELP NISSAN PROMOTE LEAF

By Gavin Conway

Jun 16, 2011at 09:38AM

Under News

Car manufacturers just love a little Hollywood glamour to rub off on their latest sheet metal, so Nissan is ‘ecstatic’ to have Ryan Reynolds on board to help promote the LEAF electric car.

Canadian actor Reynolds, who stars in the new comic book-based blockbuster Green Lantern, is a Nissan LEAF owner and a committed environmental activist.

“For me, electric vehicles, like the Nissan LEAF, are not only representative of taking back the power, but also a significant statement about conscious ways of living,” says Reynolds. That’s an appropriately superhero thing to say – in the movie, Reynolds plays a test pilot invested with otherworldly powers. He is also a member of an intergalactic squadron tasked with keeping peace within the universe. So it could be argued Reynolds is saving the planet offscreen and on.

At the premiere of Green Lantern at in Hollywood last night, Reynolds pulled up to the red carpet in his personal Nissan LEAF, ditching the traditional limousine.

As well as promoting the LEAF, Reynolds will also be involved in Nissan’s ‘Innovation for Endurance’ programme, which is all about promoting fitness. The programme already boasts supporters such as Olympian and fastest American marathoner Ryan Hall, elite cyclist Levi Leipheimer and Tara Stiles, author ofSlim Calm Sexy Yoga.

Innovation for Endurance is part of a partnership Nissan entered with Rodale Inc., a publishing outfit that focuses on fitness with titles such as Bicycling, Runner’s World and Running Times. The titles will feature editorial content from the campaign.

Nissan Leaf Wins 2011 World Car of the Year

Brian Carolin accepts the WCOTY award

NEW YORK, N.Y. (April 20, 2011) - Today, at the New York International Auto Show, the 100-percent electric, zero-emission Nissan LEAF was named 2011 World Car of the Year, edging out the BMW 5-Series and the Audi A8 for the top spot. Today's award is the latest in a string of accolades for the world's first affordable mass-market, all-electric vehicle for the global market, which was also named European Car of the Year.

"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," said Nissan Chairman and CEO Carlos Ghosn. "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. 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 Awards jurors observed that, "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."

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.

Nissan LEAF is available in Japan, the United States and select European markets and will be released in other global markets in 2012. The vehicle is currently built at Nissan's Oppama, Japan plant. It also will be manufactured at the company's Smyrna, Tenn., plant in the United States in late 2012 and at Nissan's Sunderland plant in the United Kingdom by early 2013.

Aiming to be the world leader in zero-emission vehicles, Nissan, with its Alliance partner, Renault, has formed partnerships with more than 90 governments, cities and other organizations around the world not only to develop and produce EV and lithium-ion batteries but also to promote sustainable mobility. Nissan is also taking a comprehensive approach to encourage to the world to more sustainable mobility such as improvement of charging service, infrastructure deployment, the promotion of the use of recycled materials and overall energy management system including second-life use of lithium-ion batteries.

Check out our Nissan Leaf Blog

Sunshine, Picnics, and Road Trips!

The crazy winter weather we have learned to love as "Boonies" is starting to wind down, and soon the sunshine and warm weather will be here to stay! After months of dreaming, I know I'm glad to see that Spring has finally arrived!

I know we're all ready for those sweet summer days spent picnicking, grilling out, on the Watauga Lake, or in the shops of Downtown Boone & Blowing Rock. Road Trips have always been a favorite summer activity for my family, but I know that rising gas prices can make these fun vacations seem impossible. 

At University Nissan we work hard to keep customers like you in mind. We would hate for you to sacrifice your family plans because of transportation issues. Keep in mind that we have a great selection of New & Used vehicles. I would like to point out a few of our Nissan vehicles that get excellent gas mileage, allowing you to spend quality time with your family without breaking your budget.

Sedans

Nissan Sentras start at $15,840 and are great, compact sedans that seat 5. They are very comfortable, and the back seats fold flat for maximum storage. It comes equipped with the Nissan Advanced Airbag System with 6 Standard Airbags for your safety and the safety of your passengers. 

Nissan Versas are either 4 Door Sedans or Hatchbacks and are very budget-friendly. The Sedan starts at $9,900 and the Hatchback starts at $14,160 and both vehicles seat 5 comfortably as they offer the most leg-room in their class. They come equipped with the Nissan Advanced Airbag System with 6 Standard Airbags as well and the Versa is the most economical vehicle Nissan offers. 

Nissan Sentras and Versas get a whopping 34 Miles to the Gallon on the Highway. Nissan Altimas are very close behind with 32 MPG, followed by Maximas with 26 MPG.

Altimas start at $20,270 and are available as 4-Door Sedans, Coupes, or even as a Hybrid. The Altima is spacious and very comfortably seats up to 5 people. Not only does the Nissan Altima come equipped with the Nissan Advanced Airbag System with 6 Standard Airbags, every Altima includes the LATCH system which allows for easier child seat installation. The Nissan Altima also features some new innovations including Brake Override Technology and Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) which allows for smooth automatic shifting. 

Sports Utility Vehicles

As for SUVs, our Nissan Rogues are in the lead with 28 MPG followed Muranos at 24 MPG!

The Nissan Rogue is our most popular vehicle, and its no surprise as to why! Starting at $21,210, this All Wheel Drive SUV very comfortably seats 5 people and offers 28.9 cubic feet of cargo space for your family's belongings--so load the car up with your suitcases AND hit the mall, and you'll still have plenty of room! Transition from City to Highway mode and be more fuel efficient. Also, the Nissan Advanced Air Bag System offers 6 Standard Airbags for your safety and the safety of your passengers as well as Front-seat Active Head Restraints. 

The Nissan Murano is very stylish and innovative as well as comfortable and fuel-efficient. It starts at $29,050 and is offers very comfortable, spacious seating for 5 passengers. the drive is very smooth and this vehicle boasts 475 miles per tank of gas! That's a lot of travel without having to make constant trips to the gas station. The intuitive AWD offers control, flexibility, and safety as it adjusts to changing conditions. Also, the Nissan Advanced Air Bag System offers 6 Standard Airbags. 

Trucks

If you're interested in a truck that has the heavy duty features you need and is still economical, the Nissan Frontier gets 22 MPG.

The Nissan Frontier Truck starts at $18,200 and offers excellent gas mileage coupled with superb performance. With a 6,500-lb. Towing Capacity, Innovative Utili-Track, and Off-Road Capabilities, this vehicle has a lot to offer in these Appalachian Mountains. With a spacious bed, comfortable and versatile interior, and the safety of the Nissan Advanced Air Bag System, this is a great vehicle at a great price. 

Electric

Best of all, of course, is the All-New Nissan Leaf 100% Electric Vehicle. Skip the summer gas lines altogether and "go green" in a Leaf. Its battery mileage is comparable to 99 miles to the gallon of gasoline you would put in a standard vehicle. 

*MPG ratings are approximate and may vary depending on load, speed, and driving conditions. 

The Nissan LEAF has arrived!

the day has finally come. the first run of Nissan LEAF™ vehicles are now being delivered to their rightful owners. to see how they are being received, just use the video link below and witness 100% electric history in the making. see videos   best-in-class mileage the EPA not only rated the 100% electric Nissan LEAF™ as a "Best in Class" for energy efficiency* but also gave it a "Best for the Environment" rating for tailpipe emissions* as well as making it the most energy efficient vehicle in the market. and with an MPG equivalent of 106 city/92 highway for a combined 99 MPGe, it's easy to see why. learn more win a Nissan LEAF™, it's now on tour it's official. the drive electric tour, sponsored by the 100% electric Nissan LEAF™, is now in full swing. to learn more about the tour and how to win your very own LEAF™, just use the link below. learn more Nissan LEAF™ has an online brochure there's much more to the 100% electric Nissan LEAF™ than you might think. to see it all, just check out the LEAF's dynamic online brochure. it describes bumper to bumper every innovation that makes up this historic car. see brochure become a Nissan LEAF™ panelist as a member of the Nissan LEAF™ Online Research Panel, you'll be invited to participate in special surveys. your opinions will help us better bring this historic vehicle to market. join now

FAQs q: does the battery location prevent the backseat from folding down? a: not at all - the battery is located in the floor of the car and won't interfere with interior space. q: what kind of stereo system does the Nissan LEAF have? can it play my iPod® Touch? a: the LEAF audio system is integrated to the unique navigation system and will support AM, FM, CD (w/WMA/MP3 capability) and USB interface for iPods and other MP3 players.   to see more, click here.

INNOVATION FOR THE PLANET. INNOVATION FOR ALL. NISSAN LEAF™