The latest accolade given to the all-electric Nissan Leaf comes during the New York International Auto Show. The Leaf has officially been named the World Car of the Year, beating out the BMW 5-Series and the Audi A8 for the coveted top spot.
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. According to West Haven Nissan, the award comes on the heels of Nissan’s announcement that it will be accelerating Leaf deliveries in the U.S. The automaker also plans to release the Leaf on a much wider basis in 2012.
“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 Pittsburgh PA 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 Leaf is a stepping stone for Nissan toward becoming the world leader in zero-emission vehicles. Baltimore, MD Nissan dealer said the automaker aims to develop more EVs and manufacture lithium-ion batteries, and has also found numerous partners to promotesustainable mobility
