The Nissan Leaf won the 2011 World Car of the Year award at the New York International Auto Show, beating out the short list of three finalists.
According to the jurors, Nissan electric car has a lot going for it: “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. Dropped onto a unique platform and body, the Leaf’s lithium-ion battery modules and electric motor generate 108hp and 206 lb ft of torque, propelling the hatch from zero to 60mph in 11.5 seconds and a top speed of 90mph. 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.”
We think another reason the Leaf deserves the New York International Auto Show; World Car of the Year award is because of its Carwings system that leverages crowdsourcing to enhance its fuel economy.
What happened to the Chevy Volt, which costs 8,200 more than the 32,780 Nissan Leaf? It was still deemed cool enough to win the Green Car of the Year award at that same auto show.
