NISSAN OF MANHATTAN

WORLD ECONOMIC FORUM GOES GREEN WITH 100% ELECTRIC NISSAN LEAF

The Mobility House to provide charging point, including energy package

ROLLE, Switzerland - 
Switzerland has taken delivery of its first Nissan LEAF, the award-winning 100% electric, zero-emission, compact family hatchback.

Professor Klaus Schwab, the founder and executive chairman of the influential World Economic Forum, took delivery of the car which is being loaned to the Forum for a year to allow its employees to experience its performance in everyday use.

"Climate change is one of the biggest challenges facing the world today. Practical steps and actions are needed to promote energy efficiency or - even better - to implement zero CO2 emission policies. The electric car is a major step towards creating a greener world and the World Economic Forum looks forward to experiencing this new, zero-emission mode of transport with the 100% electric Nissan LEAF," said Professor Schwab.

The World Economic Forum, a non-profit organization, was founded in 1971 and is well-known for its annual meeting in Davos-Klosters which brings together global political and business leaders to discuss the biggest challenges facing the world. Over the years, the Forum's influence has extended to cover a wide range of topics and issues, including the environment. The Forum's environmental initiative addresses the facets of climate change with a view to reducing global greenhouse gas emissions.

Nissan is also dedicated to reducing greenhouse gases, not just through the development and promotion of electric vehicles, but also by reducing emissions from its conventionally powered cars, its factories around the world and its other activities. The Nissan Green Program in 2010 set a target of 70% reduction in its total emissions by 2050.

"The accolades and awards that have been bestowed on Nissan LEAF show that the world is ready for a reliable and practical electric vehicle that's also exciting to drive. I'm confident Professor Schwab and the employees at the World Economic Forum are going to enjoy their experience behind the wheel of the Nissan LEAF, especially knowing that the car will not be producing any tailpipe emissions whenever they are driving it," said Pierre Loing, vice president of product strategy and planning at Nissan International SA, Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.'s headquarters in Europe.

A certified, purpose-designed charging point will be installed at the Forum's headquarters in Geneva to safely recharge the car's battery from an optimum 16-amp system.

The charging point will be installed by The Mobility House (TMH), Nissan's network partner in Switzerland and Austria, who will also provide an energy package. TMH, the leading electric mobility operator in Europe based in Austria, Germany and Switzerland, develops affordable e-mobility solutions for regional utility companies, businesses and private customers.

"Easy access to a safe charging infrastructure is necessary in order to make electric mobility accepted by people in everyday life. We look forward to completing the EV experience for the World Economic Forum with our certified charging point," said THM CEO Thomas Raffeiner.

Nissan LEAF, which went on sale in Japan, the US and Europe late last year, has been voted both the European and World Car of the Year 201. The car has a range between charges of up to 175 kilometres as tested over the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC).

To date, 31 Swiss customers have placed orders for the car, which will cost 49,950 CHF. The first customers are due to take delivery of their cars this October. The family hatchback is powered by an in-house developed compact electric motor and inverter in the front of the car, which drives the front wheels. The AC motor develops 80 kW of power and 280 Nm of torque, enough for a maximum speed of 145 km/h.

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JUKE and Nissan LEAF wow the Goodwood crowds

It wasn't the fastest time of the day, but when the Nissan JUKE took to the Goodwood Hill last weekend (1-3 July) it still managed to break a record.

For JUKE, Nissan's fast selling new crossover, climbed the tortuous hill during the annual Festival of Speed on two wheels rather than four, to claim a new Guinness World Record by covering the one-mile course in 2 min 55 secs*.

And to prove it wasn't a fluke, the JUKE - with stunt driver Terry Grant at the wheel -successfully completed the course no fewer than five times, sometimes with passengers on board.

Although Grant made it look easy, it was anything but. "It was really hairy... bloody hard work," he confessed afterwards. "If you know what you're doing, driving a car on two wheels in a straight line is comparatively easy. But the Goodwood course has corners, inclines and obstacles... there are trees and walls everywhere. I nearly rolled it on every run."

To get JUKE onto two wheels, Grant used a ramp just ahead of the start line before heading towards Goodwood House and the first corner, a near 90-degree right. "That was where it started getting tricky. I had to tease it round, knowing that if I turned the wheel too far - or touched the grass - I'd be on the roof. Not enough and it would fall back onto all four wheels," said Grant.

But worse was to come. One of the most famous obstacles on the course is a stout flint wall towards the end of the course and which juts onto the track.

"Driving on two wheels is like driving with one hand over your left eye and another hand obscuring half the right - from where I was, tucked down on the right of the car, all I could see was the bonnet of the car and a bit of sky. I couldn't see where the wall was at all."

The stunt captured the imagination of the huge crowds who were clapping and cheering all the way up the hill, while even hard-bitten journalists watching the run on monitors in the event's media centre were willing him on.

Not content with driving JUKE solo, Grant also took passengers on three of the runs. "I had circuit commentator Amanda Stretton on one run, complete with 12 on-board cameras. I also took Lewis Hamilton's father Anthony up the hill - both Amanda and Anthony sat in the back on their runs.

"But the most difficult was on the Sunday when I took Aussie motorcycle stunt rider Robbie Maddison up. Robbie was in the front, half out of the car and waving to the crowds all the way up!"

The JUKE was totally standard, though for safety reasons before each run it was fitted with new Yokohama production tyres. Well, just a pair each time...

After electrifying the Festival of Speed, Grant and the Nissan team then decamped to the nearby Goodwood race circuit and set about another dare-devil stunt, this time by lapping the track in the all-electric Nissan LEAF. In reverse.

Because the EV doesn't have a conventional transmission it can, in theory, travel as fast backwards as it can forwards. On his fastest lap Nissan LEAF peaked at 62mph (100km/h). Going forwards it will reach 90mph (145km/h) suggesting that there might be more to come. Nissan has confirmed it is looking at future record attempts.

But it won't be easy.

Terry Grant said: "Driving backwards at those speeds is very tricky. You have to be super smooth at all times: any sudden movement of the steering wheel can have disastrous consequences."

For the moment, though the only problem associated with Nissan's week of record breaking has befallen driver Terry Grant. After spending the weekend on two wheels and the early part of the week driving backwards, Grant confess that his neck now feels a little stiff!

* Pending ratification from Guinness World Records


Nissan of Manhattan is now serving Garden City, Westbury, Brooklyn, Queens, Northern Blvd, Staten Island, White Plains and the Bronx for all your Nissan News. We are your #1 Nissan Dealer in the TriState area. Come by and visit us at 646 11th Avenue New York City, NY 10036




Written and Posted by: Nissan News

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Enables mobility usage completely free of CO2 emissions -
Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. and 4R Energy Corporation today announced that the two companies have developed a charging system for electric vehicles that combines a solar power generation system with high-capacity lithium-ion batteries. Testing of this new charging system began today at Nissan's Global Headquarters in Yokohama.

With the new charging system, electricity is generated through solar cells installed at Nissan's Global Headquarters, and is stored in lithium-ion batteries which are equivalent to four units of Nissan LEAFs. With seven charging stations (three quick charge, four normal charge) located in the headquarter grounds, the total electricity that can be generated and stored is the equivalent to fully charging approximately 1,800 Nissan LEAFs annually.

This new system will enable electric vehicles, which do not emit any CO2 when driven, to be charged through a completely renewable energy source. This is one solution to create a cycle where CO2 emissions resulting from driving is zero. By using the same lithium-ion batteries in electric vehicles as stationary storage batteries, electricity can also be supplied to EVs regardless of the time of day or weather, enabling efficient use of renewable energy sources.

4R Energy Corporation, a joint venture established by Nissan and Sumitomo Corporation in September 2010, has already started tests on a compact electricity storage system installed with second-life lithium ion batteries previously used in Nissan LEAFs. Based on the outcome of this larger system, 4R Energy plans to enter the market of mid-sized electricity storage systems for commercial and public facilities.

Nissan and 4R Energy Corporation will continue various efforts to help move toward a sustainable, zero-emission society.

Demonstration test outline

• Solar cell: Maximum power output: 40kW (Solar Frontier)
• Power conditioner: Rated power output: 40kW (10kW×4)
  (Sanyo Denki Co., Ltd.)
• Storage battery capacity: 96kWh (Automotive Energy Supply Corporation)
• Grid management unit: Rated power output: 200kW
  (Sanyo Denki Co., Ltd.)
• EV charging equipment: Quick charger: 3 (50kW×3)
  Regular charger:4 (3.3kW×14)

Outline of 4R Energy Corporation

• President: Takashi Sakagami
• Company Address: Queen's Tower C 12F, 2-3-5, Minatomirai, Nishi-ku, Yokohama City
• Capital: 450 million yen
• Date of Establishment: September 14, 2010
• Stakeholders: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. (51%)
  Sumitomo Corporation (49%)
• Business Description: Demonstration tests and commercialization study for the second-life use of lithium-ion batteries previously used in EVs

About Nissan
Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., Japan's second-largest automotive company, is headquartered in Yokohama, Japan, and is part of the Renault-Nissan Alliance. Operating with more than 248,000 employees globally, Nissan provided customers with more than 4.1 million vehicles in 2010, generating revenue of 8.77 trillion yen ($102.37 billion US). With a strong commitment to developing exciting and innovative products for all, Nissan delivers a comprehensive range of 64 models under the Nissan and Infiniti brands. A pioneer in zero-emission mobility, Nissan made history with the introduction of the Nissan LEAF, the first affordable, mass-market, pure-electric vehicle and winner of numerous international accolades, including the prestigious 2011 European Car of the Year award and 2011 World Car of the Year.




Nissan of Manhattan is now serving Garden City, Westbury, Brooklyn, Queens, Northern Blvd, Staten Island, White Plains and the Bronx for all your Nissan News. We are your #1 Nissan Dealer in the TriState area. Come by and visit us at 646 11th Avenue New York City, NY 10036

This article was written and posted by: Nissannews.com

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? Well-Equipped Second-Generation Design Features Lowest M.S.R.P. in America at $10,990 ?

Nissan North America, Inc. (NNA) today announced pricing for the all-new, totally redesigned Nissan Versa Sedan ? with the lowest starting M.S.R.P.* in America** at just $10,990. Rather than a stripped-down entry-level vehicle at that price, the Versa Sedan 1.6 S 5MT includes standard air conditioning, 6-way adjustable driver's seat, AM/FM/CD/Aux-in audio system and an advanced 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine with dual injector system and twin Continuously Variable Timing Control (CVTC). Versa Sedan fuel economy is estimated at 33 mpg Combined with the CVT transmission.

The new 2012 Versa Sedan is available in three models ? 1.6 S, 1.6 SV and 1.6 SL ? and is scheduled to go on sale at Nissan dealers nationwide in early August. Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Prices* (MSRP) for the 2012 Nissan Versa Sedan models include:

About the 2012 Nissan Versa Sedan
The 2012 Nissan Versa Sedan is designed to redefine compact car value ? giving buyers everything they want and need in one stylish package, including the utilization of smart technology to create a next generation eco-drivetrain delivering responsive performance, high MPG and lower CO2 emissions***.

The all-new front-wheel drive global "V" platform, designated "V" for Versatile, utilizes nearly 20 percent fewer platform components and weighs around 150 pounds less than the previous "B" platform. The second-generation 1.6-liter HR16DE 4-cylinder engine includes a range of cutting-edge technologies, making it one of the most advanced powerplants in its class. For example, the new Versa Sedan engine is equipped with two streamlined injectors mounted near the inlet valve for each cylinder. This dual injector system allows a wider injection of fuel, with the smaller nozzles delivering a finer spray (approximately 57 percent finer than the previous generation single injector design's particle size) to help achieve more complete combustion.

The new compact, lighter weight engine also utilizes a twin Continuously Variable Timing Control (CVTC) system mounted on both intake and exhaust ports (conventionally mounted only on the intake port), similar to the system used on the flagship Nissan Maxima. The engine is rated at 109 horsepower and 107 lb-ft of torque.

The 2012 Versa Sedan is available with a 5-speed manual transmission (1.6 S model only) and with a next-generation Xtronic CVT™ transmission. The CVT allows continuous change of the transmission gear ratio by connecting the two pulleys with a metallic belt and changing their diameter by using hydraulic pressure. This new CVT design adds an auxiliary gearbox using planetary gearing, helping enhance efficiency. It also features a transmission ratio of 7.3:1, which is broader than those of conventional CVTs and even typical 7-speed automatic transmissions. The result is fuel economy for the 2012 Versa Sedan estimated at 30 mpg City, 38 mpg Highway and 33 mpg Combined with the CVT transmission (27/36/30 mpg with the 5-speed manual transmission).

The Versa Sedan's new exterior design is also a departure from most current compact sedans, offering a refreshing design character that is both sophisticated and highly aerodynamic. Inside, the sophisticated styling theme continues with an open, airy, high-quality look and feel ? including available upgraded cloth, 60/40-split fold-down rear seat and Fine Vision instrumentation. The new Versa Sedan's long list of standard and available equipment includes available Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, XM® Satellite Radio (XM® subscription required, sold separately) and an in-dash 5-inch touch-screen navigation system with XM NavTraffic® (XM® subscription required, sold separately) and USB input for iPod® and other compatible devices.

Along with the long list of standard equipment for each trim level, packaging has been simplified to make the shopping experience easier for customers. Among the available 2012 Versa Sedan optional equipment packages are a Convenience Package (1.6 S CVT), Convenience Package (1.6 SV) and Tech Package (1.6 SL).

The 2012 Nissan Versa is also available in a 5-door Versa Hatchback version, which receives only minor refinements for the new model year. It is scheduled to go on sale July 17, 2011. Full information and pricing will be available at that time on NissanNews.com.

About Nissan North America
In North America, Nissan's operations include automotive styling, design, engineering, consumer and corporate financing, sales and marketing, distribution and manufacturing. Nissan is dedicated to improving the environment under the Nissan Green Program 2010 and has been recognized as a 2010 and 2011 ENERGY STAR® Partner of the Year by the U.S Environmental Protection Agency. More information about Nissan in North America and the complete line of Nissan and Infiniti vehicles can be found online by clicking Nissan  or  Infiniti 

About Nissan
Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., Japan's second largest Japanese automotive company by volume, is headquartered in Yokohama, Japan and is an integral pillar of the Renault-Nissan Alliance. Operating with more than 150,000 employees globally, Nissan provided customers with more than 4 million vehicles in 2010. With a strong commitment to developing exciting and innovative products for all, Nissan delivers a comprehensive range of fuel-efficient and low-emissions vehicles under the Nissan and Infiniti brands. A pioneer in zero emission mobility, Nissan made history with the introduction of the Nissan LEAF, the first affordable, mass-market, pure-electric vehicle and winner of numerous international accolades including the prestigious 2011 European Car of the Year award.

For more information on our products, services and commitment to Sustainable Mobility, visit our website at www.NissanofManhattan.com

* MSRP excludes applicable tax, title, license fees and destination charges. Dealer sets actual price. Prices and specs are subject to change without notice.
** Among MY12 competitors at time of print
*** Lower emissions compared to the MY11 Versa and estimates for PUREDRIVE technology.

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Nissan CEO Carlos Ghosn punctuated the automaker's recovery from the natural disasters that struck Japan in March, visiting an important port that kept its car parts and vehicles moving during the crisis.

In the wake of the twin calamities, staff from overseas plants converged at the global logistic nerve center near Nissan's Yokohama headquarters to help sort out parts allocation and share existing supplies.

Ghosn said Honmoku's response to the crisis showed how essential it is to Nissan.

"Nissan was one of the companies which has responded the fastest and in the most efficient way to what happened after the earthquake," said Ghosn.

"This is obviously due to you, due to many people inside the company who are engaged in the company and reacted very quickly and in a way that is very cross-functional and cross-regional in order to limit the damage of this natural disaster."

Moving autos and auto parts has been Honmoku's brief since opening in 1967, with exports running the gamut from early Datsuns to the latest Infinitis and Patrols now.

Honmoku wharf sees 300 containers and 1,000 trucks daily, and along with the company's supply bases in Kyushu, Aichi and Fuji is part of a crucial export chain.

The CEO said such exports and parts shipment are a major element of what will make Nissan's POWER 88 growth plan successful.

"We are the benchmark here. I've seen on many key indicators with other companies that we are at the top level in terms of productivity, in terms of cost, in terms of speed," Ghosn said.

"We are at the top level and I would like to congratulate you for this and I would like to encourage you to continue to be at the top level."

The CEO's visit Saturday came as Nissan and other automakers try to cut back energy consumption by 15 percent, a new challenge for staff at Honmoku and other Japanese centers as global demand ramps up further.

Nissan CEO Carlos Ghosn unveiled a new business plan for China on Tuesday, with local partnership Dongfeng Motor Co., Ltd. aiming to raise annual sales 70 percent to more than 2.3 million vehicles by 2015.

To meet that goal, the Chinese joint venture will invest 50 billion yuan ($8 billion) as it introduces 30 models, adds 1,000 dealerships and plans to sell locally built electric vehicles.

China, the world's largest auto market, is central to Power 88 Nissan's plan to raise global market share and profit margins to 8 percent by fiscal 2016.

"We have today about 6.2 percent market share in China and we know we have a shortfall in terms of supply--we cannot provide as many cars as the market is demanding," Ghosn said. "I would say the pent-up demand on our product today is above 7 percent already. We want to reach 10 percent."

The first of five models from China-only brand Venucia will be introduced next year, as the new nameplate targets annual sales of 300,000 within five years.

Venucia will also begin selling an electric model by 2015.

"We can introduce the technology, we can introduce the zero-emission cars, and we can introduce them in the best way possible to make them competitive," Ghosn said.

New production capacity in Guangzhou, Changzhou and Shiyan will help the company's local manufacturing capability keep pace as Nissan Dongfeng gears up for further growth in the Middle Kingdom.

By Jeremy Korzeniewski

Vital Stats

Would you describe yourself as an optimist? Someone who can always find the good in something that others fail to see? It's an admirable quality, and one we're going to try and keep in mind while putting down our thoughts on the  2011 Nissan Pathfinder.

We could write a thousand-word essay on the demise of the large, three-row, body-on-frame sport utility vehicle, but that hardly seems helpful. Instead, we'll do our best to point out exactly what penalties you'll be signing up for by choosing this type of vehicle over one of its newer crossover competitors.

Yes, a pessimist could surely find plenty about the aging Pathfinder to complain about, but the deep-seated, glass-half-full optimist can take that 4,800-pound bag of lemons and make some sweet-tasting lemonade. It took the entirety of our week with the 2011 Nissan Pathfinder, but we finally figured out exactly who this vehicle is for. Could it be you?

If someone were to give you a pen and paper and ask you to draw a sport utility vehicle, the resulting sketch would likely look exactly like the 2011 Nissan Pathfinder. It's rugged, thanks to its exaggerated wheel arches and wide flares, but somehow much softer up front due to its friendly chrome fascia. Out back, Nissan has done very little to disguise the fact that the Pathfinder is a big box on wheels, and we appreciate that concession to form following function.

Put simply, the Pathfinder is the very definition of an SUV. And, since this version was first seen on public roads in 2004 as a 2005 model, it was developed when the sport utility vehicle was still king of the people movers. In other words, this ought to be the cream of the SUV crop.


Built atop Nissan's F-Alpha platform, which also underpins the Nissan Frontier and Titan pickups along with the Xterra SUV, the Pathfinder uses a traditional ladder frame, with heavy-duty steel rails that run the length of the vehicle. Everything is bolted solidly to the frame, from the engine and transmission to the body and passenger compartment to the front and rear suspension systems.

Unlike many of its brethren, the Pathfinder eschews a solid rear axle for a four-wheel independent suspension. You'd think that would equal a smooth ride on the highway, but that's not the case. In fact, the Pathfinder rides like the truck it is, no doubt due in part to its fully boxed steel frame. Even small bumps in the road send loud thumps through the chassis and into the occupant's tailbones. Larger bumps are somehow better absorbed by the rigid structure, though you can expect that an equally sized shockwave will reverberate its way through the steering wheel and into the driver's hands.


The 2011 Pathfinder's 4.0-liter V6 powertrain is an able partner in most driving scenarios. There's 266 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 288 pound-feet of torque at 4,800 rpm ? plenty to get this brute moving briskly. One task at which traditional body-on-frame SUVs generally tower over their crossover counterparts is in towing heavy loads. With 6,000 pounds of lugging capacity when properly equipped, the Pathfinder doesn't disappoint. That's better than the Ford Explorer and Toyota Highlander (5,000 pounds maximum) or the Chevrolet Traverse (5,200 pounds), but not as good as the newer Jeep Grand Cherokee or Dodge Durango (7,400 pounds).

There's an optional 5.6-liter V8 that shares the same five-speed automatic gearbox, but we'd pass unless you really need the ability to tow another thousand pounds and you think it's worth the fuel mileage penalty. And that's a very real concern ? we averaged an absolutely dismal 13.8 miles per gallon in everyday driving with the smaller V6 engine. Perhaps the less-stressed nature of the V8 under the same operating conditions will yield similar real-world economy results, but we did not have an example on-hand to test.



Another byproduct of the Pathfinder's truck-spec origins is sloppy handling. Body roll is the predictable result of a long-travel suspension and tires with tall sidewalls coupled with plenty of weight and a high center of gravity.

Should we mention that all the Pathfinder's front-wheel-drive crossover competition handle more like typical family cars than pickup trucks? Well, it's true.

Steering the Pathfinder turned out to be something of a double-edged sword. There's very little play in the wheel, and the driver gets a surprisingly good sense of what the front tires are doing on the asphalt below. Sadly, the effort required to actually turn the wheel borders on ludicrous. Piloting the Pathfinder, especially at low speeds where two hands are needed to get proper leverage, is all the upper-body workout you'll ever need.

While we're on the topic of the steering wheel, we have to wonder why the bottom spoke of the three needs to be so thick. There are no buttons housed in that space, yet it's significantly thicker than the two spokes that offer controls.

Today Nissan Canada made history when it delivered the first all-electric Nissan LEAF in Canada, signaling the arrival of sustainable mobility to the Canadian mass market. PowerStream, the second largest municipally-owned electricity distribution company in Ontario, received keys to its two white Nissan LEAFs MY11 , at an event at its head office in Vaughan, Ontario. In addition to Allen Childs, President of Nissan Canada, Frank Scarpitti, PowerStream Board Chair and Mayor of the Town of Markham, and Monte Kwinter, MPP (York-Centre) were also in attendance.

"Electricity is the new fuel for cars and drivers have the freedom to choose a future with no tailpipe emissions or dependence on fossil fuels," said Allen Childs, President of Nissan Canada, Inc. "This Nissan LEAF delivery is just the beginning of the sustainable mobility movement in Canada."

"As leaders in our respective industries who share a common commitment to protecting the environment, it's fitting that PowerStream and Nissan are joining forces here today to officially introduce this new and exciting vehicle into the Canadian marketplace," said Frank Scarpitti, PowerStream's Board Chair and Mayor of the Town of Markham. "The Nissan LEAF is a testament to the new frontier beginning to unfold in automotive transportation. We commend Nissan for its foresight and look forward to using our new LEAFs as a means of testing the impact of electric vehicles on our distribution grid."

Through Model Year 12, Nissan expects to release around 600 Nissan Leaf on the Canadian market. In addition to these MY 12 models, Nissan Canada has secured 100 MY11 Nissan LEAFs with 40 allocated to consumers, ahead of the arrival of MY12 cars which will start to arrive later this year.

To be eligible to reserve a Nissan LEAF, consumers must be registered on www.nissan.ca/leaf and live within the vicinity of a Nissan LEAF certified dealer. Those meeting these criteria will receive an email in the coming weeks with all the details on how and when to order a Nissan LEAF.

Reservations will be very limited for MY 11 and made on a first-come-first-served basis. A second wave of reservations will be available in the coming months for the 2012 Nissan LEAF and as production ramps up and more cars become available, reservations will open to the broader public.

The first Canadian markets to receive the Nissan LEAF are those in which Nissan has formed partnerships with local or provincial governments along with utilities, to foster the development of electric vehicle-friendly policies and an EV-charging infrastructure, which will help ensure the best possible ownership experience. To date, Nissan has partnerships in Canada with:

• The Province of British Columbia, the City of Vancouver and BC Hydro
• The Government of Québec, the City of Montréal, Québec City and Quebec Hydro
• The City of Toronto
• The Government of Manitoba and Manitoba Hydro

About the Nissan LEAF
One of the industry's most-discussed vehicles for good reason, Nissan LEAF™ is the first all-electric production vehicle in the world and was recently names the 2011 World Car of the Year.

Nissan LEAF is a medium-size hatchback with ample cargo space and seating for five adults comfortably. With a range of 160 kilometres (EPA LA4 cycle) on one full charge, Nissan LEAF provides 90% of Canadians with the range needed for daily commutes. With a 240 volt home charging dock full charge is achieved in seven hours, and with a Level 3 Quick Charger, 80% charge can be achieved in just 26 minutes.

Powered by a lithium-ion battery, Nissan LEAF generates 107 horsepower, 207 lb-ft of torque providing a highly responsive, fun-to-drive experience. Because there's no traditional engine, Nissan LEAF is ultra-quiet and for safety reasons a sound had to be added so pedestrians could hear the car coming. In April, Nissan LEAF was awarded a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

The instrument panel provides the driver with regular updates on range and driving efficiency, and using a telematics system called CARWINGS, the driver can communicate with the car via a smart phone with the ability to turn on the air conditioning or heat remotely, and manage and monitor charging.

About Nissan Canada Inc.
Nissan Canada Inc. (NCI) is the Canadian sales, marketing and distribution subsidiary of Nissan Motor Limited and Nissan North America, Inc. With offices in Vancouver (BC), Mississauga (ON), and Kirkland (QC), NCI directly employs 250 full-time staff. There are 171 independent Nissan dealerships and 29 Infiniti retailers across Canada. A pioneer in zero emission mobility, Nissan made history with the introduction of the Nissan LEAF, the first affordable, mass-market, pure-electric vehicle and winner of numerous international accolades including the prestigious 2011 European Car of the Year and World Car of the Year awards

Nissan Leaf is now available at Nissan of Manhattan in New
York City, Manhattan, NY. Nissan of Manhattan is now serving Garden City Nissan for all it's Nissan Leaf lease and purchase options. Nissan of Manhattan is now serving Teddy Nissan customers in thier purchase of all new Nissan Leaf. Nissan of Manhattan is now serving all Staten Island, Bronx and Nissan Queens customers for all thier Nissan Leaf and Nissan Customers.
 

? 100-percent electric Nissan LEAF, hybrid technology and Nissan's 'PureDrive' initiative to aid meeting the new greenhouse gas and fuel economy standards by 2025 ?

Nissan Americas today announced its support for the U.S. government's proposal to set new nationwide greenhouse gas and fuel economy standards for passenger cars and light trucks between MY2017 and MY2025.

The Obama  Administration has committed to continuing on the path of a harmonized national greenhouse gas and fuel-economy program for passenger cars and light-duty trucks. Nissan endorses this "one national program" approach as essential to future technical innovations across the automotive industry.

The rigorous new greenhouse gas targets call for a 5 percent year-over-year improvement in CO2 reduction for passenger cars and 3.5 percent year-over-year improvement for light trucks from MY2017-MY2021 as an estimated industry average. After MY2021, the proposal calls for a 5 percent annual increase for both passenger cars and light trucks through MY2025. Nissan has committed to working with the administration, the Environmental Protection Agency , the Department of Transportation and the California Air Resources Board as they solidify the details surrounding the aggressive targets.

"The Obama administration has issued some extremely challenging greenhouse gas reduction and fuel economy improvement targets, but Nissan is a company built on innovation and we're up to the task," said Scott Becker, senior vice president, Administration and Finance, Nissan Americas. "Nissan's recent product introductions ? including the all-electric Nissan LEAF , theInfiniti M Hybrid  and improvements to internal-combustion technology ? demonstrate our multifaceted approach to meeting consumer demand for increased fuel economy across our product lineup and to achieving these rigorous targets. We're looking forward to helping achieve the Administration's goals under one national standard, which supports long-term planning and technology development."

Nissan introduced the LEAF ? the world's first and only 100-percent electric car for the mass market ? in December 2010 and since has sold more than 4,000 units in the United States. Nissan recently announced the introduction of new markets, including Washington D.C., to the LEAF's rollout schedule. The LEAF has achieved a fuel-economy rating of 99 mpg combined city/highway. Starting with the 2013 model year, Nissan will be building the Nissan LEAF and the lithium-ion batteries that power it in the United States, at its manufacturing facilities in Smyrna, Tenn., while the electric motors will be built at Nissan's Decherd, Tenn., engine plant.

The Infiniti brand recently introduced a hybrid system on the Infiniti M luxury sedan, which allows it to produce V-8 power with 4-cylinder fuel economy. The Infiniti M Hybrid is the only car sold in the U.S. with more than 350 hp and an EPA rating greater than 30 mpg, achieving 32 mpg on the highway cycle. This technology was developed specifically to be compatible with other models across the line-up.

Debuting on the 2012 Versa sedan, Nissan also is launching its "Pure Drive" initiative, which showcases Nissan's continuing commitment to development of environment-friendly technology through improved fuel economy on internal combustion engine vehicles. The Versa Sedan employs a dual fuel injector system, the next-generation continuously variable transmission, and other advanced technologies. The "Pure Drive" designation and technology will spread to other vehicles in the Nissan lineup as well.

About Nissan Americas
In the Americas, Nissan's operations include automotive styling, engineering, consumer and corporate financing, sales and marketing, distribution and manufacturing. Nissan is dedicated to improving the environment under the Nissan Green Program and was recognized as an ENERGY STAR®  Partner of the Year by the U.S Environmental Protection Agency in 2010 and 2011.

Nissan today announced that it is the first Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) to offer Quick Response (QR) codes on individual vehicle window stickers across its entire lineup, beginning with 2012 models. Rolled out in June with the launch of the 2012 Nissan Altima and Sentra, the QR codes link consumers to additional vehicle information, providing a free, enhanced interactive shopping experience via the most popular web-enabled iPhone, Android and Blackberry devices.

"Nissan's new QR code program puts important decision-making information at shoppers' fingertips while on dealership lots, helping sales personnel make a more effective presentation, as well as providing customers with a 'silent salesperson' if they are shopping the lot after hours," said Jon Brancheau, vice president, Marketing, Nissan North America, Inc. "It's a true mass market effort across all products and all Nissan dealerships nationwide ? part of our pledge to bring innovation to every aspect of the vehicle design, buying and ownership experience."

The Nissan "On Vehicle Graphics" system utilizes QR code technology, which is easily accessed by a large group of customers through a wide array of QR code readers.

Key information available through the QR codes includes:

• Specific vehicle information, including grade walk, key features and available accessories
• Video based product overviews
• Image gallery
• Incentive offers
• Dealer inventory
• Request a quote capability
• Join mailing list request
• Dealer location support

"Initial consumer response, based on early 2012 Altima QR code availability, has been extremely encouraging, with consumers viewing multiple pages and requesting follow-up information regarding current offers and inventory," said Brancheau. "It's one more way Nissan helps the consumer by delivering content on their terms."

The Nissan LEAF application ("app") for smartphones ? which allows LEAF owners to be in direct contact with their vehicle at all times ? has launched for use on Blackberry and Android operating systems.

Following suit with the mission of all Nissan products, the app provides bold and innovative technology for Nissan LEAF owners to manage and control many frequently used vehicle features directly from their smartphone.

The application is available to anyone with a Nissan LEAF, an active CARWINGS subscription, or an interest in better understanding the Nissan LEAF as a pioneer in electric vehicles. With the application, also available on the iPhone since the car's release in December 2010, users can access critical information points for their Nissan LEAF, such as charging, pre-cooling and heating, and monitoring the status of their vehicle. Specifically, users are able to:

• Check the state of the battery charge
• Begin charging
• Check when battery charge is complete
• See estimated driving range
• Turn the climate control system on or off

"Nissan understands that telematics and other communication services are important for consumers," said Trisha Jung, director, Vehicle Connected Services, Nissan North America. "By providing accessibility and functionality to the Nissan LEAF through all major smartphone platforms, we are truly delivering 'Innovation for All.'"

Nissan was recognized in Detroit at the 2011 International Telematics Update Awards as the "2010-2011 Industry Newcomer" for its CARWINGS telematics service, which includes the smartphone app. For more information on CARWINGS and the Nissan LEAF application, visit www.NissanUSA.com.

Nissan Leaf is now available at Nissan of Manhattan in New York City, Manhattan, NY. Nissan of Manhattan is now serving Garden City Nissan for all it's Nissan Leaf lease and purchase options. Nissan of Manhattan is now serving Teddy Nissan customers in thier purchase of all new Nissan Leaf. Nissan of Manhattan is now serving all Staten Island, Bronx , Brooklyn and Nissan Queens customers for all thier Nissan Leaf and Nissan Customers.
 

Nissan Motor Co., Ltd has pledged ?100,000 (around 11 million Yen, or $140,000 U.S.) to the U.N World Food Programme, the world's largest humanitarian agency, to provide life-saving food assistance to people suffering from the ongoing drought and famine in the Horn of Africa. The money will help WFP provide food to affected people across Somalia, Ethiopia and Kenya - especially children, who are the most vulnerable to the effects of malnutrition.

Nissan Corporate Vice President for Africa, Middle East and India, Gilles Normand, commented: "Nissan is greatly saddened by the famine in East Africa, which has now reached critical levels. Our thoughts are with those affected by the crisis and we wish the World Food Programme, and all other humanitarian organizations and individuals working within the region, every success in their vital efforts."

First French private customers received keys of their Nissan LEAF a month in advance

Nissan West Europe brings electric mobility to France with delivery of the country's first 100% electric Nissan LEAF. Mr. and Mrs. Gerbaud took delivery of their white Nissan LEAF at NISSAN COURIANT in Aix-en-Provence on August 2nd. This groundbreaking moment represents France's first delivery of the 2011 European and World Car of the Year. This early delivery is also a demonstration of the company's effort to recover from the natural disaster of March 11th in Japan and the readiness of Nissan's EV dealer network in France.

Carine Gerbaud will mainly use her Nissan LEAF for daily commuting to her workplace. As she drives 80km per day on average, the Nissan LEAF's homologated range of 175km with a full charge is sufficient to cover her needs. Philippe Gerbaud said that their decision to buy an electric vehicle was not only to "preserve the environment" but also driven by the particularly low running costs the Nissan LEAF offers: less than 2? per 100 km in France compared with about ?7 for a similarly-equipped diesel family car.

"We've been spending 400? per month at the petrol station. From now, we should only pay 60? per month in electricity. The extra cost of the vehicle will be recovered in one year after which the monthly fuel saving can be used as a contribution towards the monthly finance repayments" explains Mr. Gerbaud.

The price of the 100% electric Nissan LEAF is ?30,990 in France, after incentives and including the batteries which benefits from a five-year/100,000 km warranty. The French government's incentive for electric vehicles amounts to 5,000 euros. In order to make electric motoring even more accessible to individual customers in France, the Nissan LEAF is also available through a private finance scheme

Eric Couriant from Nissan Couriant in Aix-en-Provence applied to become a certified EV dealer because he believes "Nissan is making history by bringing sustainable mobility to the mass market and we wanted to be part of it". "Most customers testing the Nissan LEAF are very positively surprised by the performance, the comfort, the roominess and the range of the Nissan LEAF." Mr. Couriant added.

Nissan Couriant in Aix-en-Provence is one of the 14 certified EV dealers (along with Chambourcy, Clermont-Ferrand, Grenoble, Marseille, Maurepas, Montpellier, Nantes, Nice, Nîmes, Paris 12ème , Perpignan, Strasbourg, Toulouse) to sell the Nissan LEAF in France. This list is expected to grow rapidly in the near future.

Deliveries of Nissan LEAF have already begun in the UK, the Netherlands, the Republic of Ireland and Portugal. Order books have also opened in Switzerland, Spain, Belgium and Norway with customers in those markets expected to start receiving their cars shortly.

Nissan LEAF recently received a top 5-star safety rating from the European New Car Assessment Programme (Euro NCAP), making it one of the safest cars on the road in Europe.

Nissan LEAF is powered by a compact electric motor in the front of the car, which drives the front wheels. The AC motor develops 80 kW of power and 280 Nm of torque, enough for a maximum speed of 145 km/h. The electric motor is powered by a laminated lithium-ion battery with an output of more than 90 kW. Matching the advanced electric drive technology is the Nissan LEAF's advanced on-board IT and telematics systems called CARWINGS. The system provides continuous information to the driver via a 7'' color touch screen, including battery capacity and range, and provides the location of the nearest charging station.

The car has a range between charges of 175 km as tested over the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC) making it a practical proposition for many urban drivers. Recharging from empty to 100% can be done in eight hours with a normal charger and in about 30 minutes from empty to 80% using a quick charger under normal conditions.


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Donated vehicle to used for emergency response

The Kittrell Volunteer Fire Department has accepted the donation of a new emergency command and transport response vehicle from Nissan Americas in Smyrna, TN

KVFD Chief John Ingle says the 2006 Nissan Pathfinder 4X4 will be utilized on fire scenes to establish command post operations and to transport firefighters to and from scenes.

"We are honored to receive this generous donation from Nissan Americas. It will be another "tool in the tool kit? in our service to the citizens of the Kittrell and Readyville communities," Ingle said.

The vehicle has been equipped with emergency warning and radio communications gear, installed by Gemini Communications Inc. in Murfreesboro, TN.

Additionally, the vehicle has been outfitted with a "command console," allowing for resource and personnel management. The console will also house additional radio communications equipment, allowing for increased interoperability between multiple jurisdictions and departments.

The Kittrell Volunteer Fire Department was established in 1990. KVFD's mission is to serve the community with professional fire protection services, with the goal of preserving life and property.

Nissan Designer & Sailing Champ to Race in Denmark-
If you think the Nissan LEAF is the only zero-emission Nissan "vehicle" garnering attention these days, think again. There is a new model hitting the road this summer ? or, more accurately, setting sail - and this creation doesn't even require batteries. Truly harnessing the "power of nature," a Nissan-built Catamaran soon will be sailing high in the Danish ocean, the latest non-automotive design and development project by Nissan Design America (NDA), based in San Diego, California.

Matt Struble, who led the design and modeling team at NDA, will be racing in the 2011 Class A Catamaran ("A-Cat") World Championship from August 13 through 20 in Skødstrup, Denmark. Originally from Michigan, Matt was the 2009 ice boating world champion. After moving to San Diego, Struble turned his passion to ocean sailing. His athletic achievements quickly translated into the new sport, as he holds the current title of A-Cat U.S. Champion. The Class A Catamaran is controlled by a single sailor and is the smallest in size in all Catamaran race boats.

As a Model Realization Lead, Matt is engaged daily in creating three-dimensional realizations of designers' ideas for future Nissan and Infiniti products. Earlier this year, Matt was presented with a unique opportunity to design a race boat for the upcoming championship race himself and build it while training his relatively new team of modeling specialists based at NDA's Mexicali, Mexico facility at the same time.

The boat's composite structure was designed and built entirely in-house. Improving all aspects of aero- and hydro-dynamics, the team looked at every piece, leaving no stone unturned, achieving cleaner, smoother form and surface that are efficient to add competitive edge, according to Matt.

"We weren't trying to create something that already exists, but something groundbreaking," Struble said. "This has truly been a great experience and great project for us. This one in particular was quite unique because you have to create it in your mind, but also physically manufacture it and follow through. It was great for our team to see the project from start to finish."

In creating the boat, the Mexicali modeling team was able to gain valuable experience and knowledge with new materials, spraying techniques and model finish applications and learned how to achieve more accurate models, as well as new techniques and processes. NDA's Mexicali facility opened in March 2009 and handles design model milling, surface data processing, painting and shop work.

"This has been a great opportunity and experience for the Mexicali team, whose core business is model building, data development and digitizing. The goal for the team is to timely achieve accurate models to enhance the overall business of design," said Rich Plavetich, General Manager, Design Business, NDA. "The knowledge and skills acquired from this experience will be incorporated into the future Nissan and Infiniti vehicle design development process," Plavetich said.
About Nissan Design Americas

Nissan Design America (NDA), a division of Nissan North America, Inc., is based in San Diego, California, designs vehicles with emphasis on the Americas region with sensitivity for the global market, in close collaboration with its counterparts at Global Nissan Design Center in Atsugi, Japan, and Nissan Technical Centers in Japan and North America. Among NDA's recent designs include Nissan Ellure Concept, all-new 2012 Nissan NV commercial vehicles, 370Z sports coupe, Maxima sports sedan, Rogue compact crossover SUV, Altima coupe, Sentra compact sedan, Titan full-size truck, and Armada full-size SUV.

NDA occasionally undertakes non-automotive design projects to keep design skills sharp. Some of the past projects included a 150-foot yacht, preschool furniture, golf clubs, medical devices and a personal light aircraft.

NISSAN RELEASES BLACKBERRY, ANDROID APPLICATION FOR ALL-ELECTRIC NISSAN LEAF

- Acclaimed App allows drivers to control in-vehicle features -

The Nissan LEAF application ("app") for smartphones ? which allows LEAF Nissan of Manhattan owners to be in direct contact with their vehicle at all times ? has launched for use on Blackberry and Android operating systems.

Following suit with the mission of all Nissan products, the app provides bold and innovative technology for Nissan LEAF owners from Nissan of Manhattan to manage and control many frequently used vehicle features directly from their smartphone.

The application is available to anyone with a Nissan LEAF, an active CARWINGS subscription, or an interest in better understanding the Nissan LEAF as a pioneer in electric vehicles. With the application, also available on the iPhone since the car's release in December 2010, users can access critical information points for their Nissan LEAF, such as charging, pre-cooling and heating, and monitoring the status of their vehicle. Specifically, users are able to:

• Check the state of the battery charge
• Begin charging
• Check when battery charge is complete
• See estimated driving range
• Turn the climate control system on or off

"Nissan understands that telematics and other communication services are important for consumers," said Trisha Jung, director, Vehicle Connected Services, Nissan North America. "By providing accessibility and functionality to the Nissan LEAF through all major smartphone platforms, we are truly delivering 'Innovation for All.'"

Nissan was recognized in Detroit at the 2011 International Telematics Update Awards as the "2010-2011 Industry Newcomer" for its CARWINGS telematics service, which includes the smartphone app. For more information on CARWINGS and the Nissan LEAF application, visit
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- 10 units to support MLIT- barrier-free vehicle project -

Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. will loan 10 units of its compact commercial vehicle, the NV200 Vanette Taxi, at no cost to several taxi operators in the Tohoku region of Japan to help improve public access to transportation in the areas affected by the recent major earthquake and natural disasters.

The taxi companies have been designated for this role by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) in association with the "Utilization and demonstration project of new barrier-free vehicles in areas affected by the Great East Japan Earthquake."

The project is part of efforts to develop and promote new types of barrier-free vehicles, including the Universal Design Taxi and will be launched in areas devastated by the recent natural disasters. It is aimed at ensuring access and improving public access to transportation in the affected areas and to confirm the attributes of the new barrier-free vehicles. The NV200 Vanette Taxis will be delivered to the affected areas in the fall of this year.

"We are proud to support the MLIT project by providing Nissan's NV200 Vanette Taxis," said Nissan Corporate Vice President Hideto Murakami, who is responsible for the Global LCV Business Unit. "Our hope is that they will be used to help people in the affected area and, as we go forward, lead to widespread adoption of the Universal Design Taxi nationwide."

Already on sale in Japan from the end of 2010 and having received a warm reception, the NV200 Vanette Taxi is an innovative and functional taxi for everyone, regardless of age, gender and ability, including children, elderly people and wheelchair users. The NV200 is aimed at promoting a barrier-free public transportation infrastructure. With its spacious rear seating and many features that facilitate smooth egress/ingress and comfortable driving over long periods, it was awarded the "Universal Design Award" *1 -- one of the most coveted awards in universal design -- and the "Universal Design Consumer's Favorite Award" in March 2011, marking the first time in the automotive industry that one vehicle was awarded both accolades.

The NV200 Vanette, which is the base model of the NV200 Vanatte Taxi, was chosen in May 2011 as the next-generation taxi for New York city. It is a model designed for customers around the world as Nissan's next-generation compact commercial vehicle, suited for a wide variety of situations including business, daily use, or leisure.

The NV200 Vanette is sold in approximately 40 countries throughout the world, and has received positive feedback from customers for its spacious interior, fuel economy, excellent driving performance, and attractive design. Following its release in Japan and Europe in fiscal 2009, and in China and Singapore in fiscal 2010, it will be introduced in the U.S. and India in the future. At the end of 2009 it was awarded the "International Van of the Year 2010" award after being selected by journalists from 20 European countries.

Nissan plans to launch an electric vehicle based on the NV200 in the future. The Japan Post Service Co., Ltd., headquartered in Tokyo, has been carrying out tests on an electric vehicle based on the NV200 since July. One test vehicle has been provided to carry out postal collection and delivery tasks for approximately two months in the city of Yokohama, Kanagawa prefecture, to evaluate the vehicle's capabilities under a customer's normal use conditions. Going forward, similar proving tests will be carried out both in Japan and Europe, where comparable evaluations will be implemented in cooperation with local companies.

*1 Universal Design GMbH is an award giving body dedicated to promoting the convergence of design and the emerging importance of customer needs. Representing the design challenges in the coming decades, the awards are intended to serve as an inspiration to designers and manufacturers in using their creativity, competence and experience to flow into products, architecture and services for everyone.

Nissan to Provide NV200 Vanettes to Earthquake-affected Areas in Japan

- 10 units to support MLIT-led barrier-free vehicle project -

Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. will loan 10 units of its compact commercial vehicle, the NV200 Vanette Taxi, at no cost to several taxi operators in the Tohoku region of Japan to help improve public access to transportation in the areas affected by the recent major earthquake and natural disasters.

The taxi companies have been designated for this role by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) in association with the "Utilization and demonstration project of new barrier-free vehicles in areas affected by the Great East Japan Earthquake."

The project is part of efforts to develop and promote new types of barrier-free vehicles, including the Universal Design Taxi and will be launched in areas devastated by the recent natural disasters. It is aimed at ensuring access and improving public access to transportation in the affected areas and to confirm the attributes of the new barrier-free vehicles. The NV200 Vanette Taxis will be delivered to the affected areas in the fall of this year.

"We are proud to support the MLIT project by providing Nissan's NV200 Vanette Taxis," said Nissan Corporate Vice President Hideto Murakami, who is responsible for the Global LCV Business Unit. "Our hope is that they will be used to help people in the affected area and, as we go forward, lead to widespread adoption of the Universal Design Taxi nationwide."

Already on sale in Japan from the end of 2010 and having received a warm reception, the NV200 Vanette Taxi is an innovative and functional taxi for everyone, regardless of age, gender and ability, including children, elderly people and wheelchair users. The NV200 is aimed at promoting a barrier-free public transportation infrastructure. With its spacious rear seating and many features that facilitate smooth egress/ingress and comfortable driving over long periods, it was awarded the "Universal Design Award" *1 -- one of the most coveted awards in universal design -- and the "Universal Design Consumer's Favorite Award" in March 2011, marking the first time in the automotive industry that one vehicle was awarded both accolades.

The NV200 Vanette, which is the base model of the NV200 Vanatte Taxi, was chosen in May 2011 as the next-generation taxi for New York city. It is a model designed for customers around the world as Nissan's next-generation compact commercial vehicle, suited for a wide variety of situations including business, daily use, or leisure.

The NV200 Vanette is sold in approximately 40 countries throughout the world, and has received positive feedback from customers for its spacious interior, fuel economy, excellent driving performance, and attractive design. Following its release in Japan and Europe in fiscal 2009, and in China and Singapore in fiscal 2010, it will be introduced in the U.S. and India in the future. At the end of 2009 it was awarded the "International Van of the Year 2010" award after being selected by journalists from 20 European countries.

Nissan plans to launch an electric vehicle based on the NV200 in the future. The Japan Post Service Co., Ltd., headquartered in Tokyo, has been carrying out tests on an electric vehicle based on the NV200 since July. One test vehicle has been provided to carry out postal collection and delivery tasks for approximately two months in the city of Yokohama, Kanagawa prefecture, to evaluate the vehicle's capabilities under a customer's normal use conditions. Going forward, similar proving tests will be carried out both in Japan and Europe, where comparable evaluations will be implemented in cooperation with local companies.

*1 Universal Design GMbH is an award giving body dedicated to promoting the convergence of design and the emerging importance of customer needs. Representing the design challenges in the coming decades, the awards are intended to serve as an inspiration to designers and manufacturers in using their creativity, competence and experience to flow into products, architecture and services for everyone.

The 2011 Nissan Leaf is an all-new model.

Introduction
BY EDMUNDS

Forget about answering the question "Who killed the electric car?" That's because Nissan is bringing the electric car back from the dead. Sure, the Tesla Roadster has made the electric car cool again, but the 2011 Nissan Leaf is the first, full-electric mainstream vehicle to be put on sale for the American consumer. Unlike past electric cars (including the GM EV1), the Leaf can be purchased outright instead of leased, so there's no being forced to give it back to the manufacturer after two years to be studied and then destroyed.

The Leaf stores its power in a lithium-ion battery pack, making it one of the first vehicles to use this advanced battery technology. Lithium-ion batteries promise better acceleration and range than comparably sized nickel-metal hydride ones. Nissan says recharging at home with a special 220-volt charger will take 4-8 hours. A commercial quick-charge station can do it in about 30 minutes. Fully charged, the Leaf is estimated to have an effective range of about 100 miles.

Of course, 100 miles is about a third of the cruising range available in a conventional car, so the Leaf's primary drawback is readily apparent. Unlike a plug-in hybrid like the Chevy Volt, there's no backup gasoline engine to keep you moving once the Leaf's batteries are depleted. Instead, you'll be stuck with a rather lengthy recharging engagement, and that's if you manage to reach an available electricity source in time. Our take is that the Leaf is best suited for drivers doing a lot of routine commuting or making shorter trips, as well as owners with a two-car household and a garage.

For all that, the 2011 Nissan Leaf promises to be a very useful vehicle. A Leaf will hit the register with a price tag of about $25,000 after a $7,500 federal tax credit (residents of certain states are eligible for additional credits as well). Buyers are advised to purchase the $2,200 home-charging station, but even this piece of hardware has its own tax rebate of 50 percent. The Leaf's running costs should also be appealing, since the cost of recharging should be a fraction of what you'd pay for a tank of gasoline.

An electric car is definitely not for everyone. Long-distance commuters, one-car households and apartment dwellers interested in a fuel-efficient or green-oriented car should instead consider a Chevrolet Volt, Ford Fusion Hybrid, Toyota Prius (be it the regular version or new plug-in hybrid), or even a Volkswagen Golf TDI diesel. But for those who have been waiting to buy a real electric car, the arrival of the 2011 Nissan Leaf is a revolutionary event.

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options

The 2011 Nissan Leaf is an all-electric four-door hatchback available in SV and SL trim levels.

Standard equipment on the SV includes 16-inch alloy wheels, LED headlamps, keyless ignition/entry, full power accessories, cruise control, automatic climate control, height-adjustable driver seat, tilt-only steering wheel and 60/40-split-folding rear seats. Also included are cloth upholstery made from recycled materials, auto-dimming rearview mirror, Bluetooth, an advanced trip computer, a navigation system and a six-speaker sound system with a CD player, satellite radio, an auxiliary audio jack and an iPod/USB audio interface.

The Leaf SL adds a spoiler-mounted solar panel, automatic headlamps, foglamps, a rearview camera and a cargo cover.

Additionally, every Leaf comes standard with Nissan Connection, a remote vehicle access system that reports battery recharging data and can activate the climate control via a cell phone. Optional are a home charging station and a quick-charge port, which allows for charging to 80 percent capacity in 30 minutes at a public charging station.

Powertrains and Performance

The 2011 Nissan Leaf is powered by an 80-kilowatt synchronous electric motor fed by a 24 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. Output is 107 horsepower and 207 pound-feet of torque. At the same time, the power delivery of an electric vehicle is vastly different from that of gasoline, diesel or even hybrid vehicles, so take the Leaf's power ratings with a grain of salt.

Nissan estimates a range of 100 miles, but this depends on driving style, traffic conditions, cruising speed and battery age. In fact, even ambient temperature plays a role in determining cruising range, because extreme temperatures are detrimental for battery performance. The EPA has given the Leaf an energy efficiency equivalent rating (MPG-e) of 106 mpg city/92 mpg highway and 99 mpg combined and an estimated driving range of 73 miles.

Safety

The 2011 Nissan Leaf comes standard with antilock disc brakes, stability and traction control, front side airbags and side curtain airbags. A rearview camera is optional on the SL.

Interior Design and Special Features

Because the Leaf's battery pack resides under the floor beneath the seats, the rear seat is quite comfortable for adults. The front seat provides no shortage of space for even tall drivers and the seats themselves are quite supportive and comfortable, though the vehicle's short range makes sure they'll never be enjoyed during a long-haul road trip. The cargo area is on the small side for a hatchback, however, and even when you fold the rear seats, the cargo floor is not flat.

The Leaf's cabin is dominated by a split-level instrument cluster similar to that of the Honda Civic. The center control panel features a touchscreen, which controls the standard navigation system as well as special features like cruising range. You can even program the start time for the recharging system to take advantage of lower rates for electricity. Interior quality is about the same as other economy hatchbacks, but overall fit and finish is noticeably a cut above.

Driving Impressions

Anyone who has driven or at least stood next to a hybrid will know how quiet it is when operating in electric-only mode. It can be eerie or cool, depending on your point of view. With the 2011 Nissan Leaf, its serenity never ceases, and you can detect only a high-pitched whine under heavy throttle. This quiet creates the adverse side effect of making wind and road noise more noticeable at highway speeds, but overall the Leaf is impressively quiet.

As an electric car, the Leaf benefits from an abundance of torque available from the first touch of the accelerator pedal. The Leaf feels sprightly and gets up to speed with no drama -- as an urban runabout, it certainly excels. Press on the brakes and the pedal is firm and sure, without the sort of strange, vague feel indicative of most regenerative braking systems.

With its battery pack mounted low in the body and a well-tuned electric power steering system, we've been pleasantly surprised by how well the Leaf takes turns. Its responsiveness is typical of that seen in other well-engineered compact family cars, and in most ways the Leaf feels pretty normal to drive.

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2011 SUPER GT Round 5 - Preview

Round 5 of SUPER GT, the "40th INTERNATIONAL Pokka GT SUMMER SPECIAL" will be held on August 20-21 at Suzuka Circuit, in Suzuka, Mie prefecture. This race marks the start of the second half of the eight-round season and features typically scorching heat with an event that's double the regular distance at 500kms.

GT-Rs have made great starts to the season, taking two victories from the opening three rounds. The #46 S-Road MOLA GT-R, which took the second step of the podium at Sepang after a fierce battle for victory, rounded out the first half of the season perfectly with a commanding maiden GT500 win at Sportsland SUGO. The team now stands atop the driver's standings. The #23 MOTUL AUTECH GT-R, leading the championship until the last round, now sits third in the rankings and is aiming for a recovery in the points' race at this round.

Handicap weight will be increased in proportion to championship points, however the circuit at Suzuka shouldn't have as critical an effect as at the previous round at SUGO. This is related not only to the character of the circuit, but also the race distance. The longer distance allows teams to employ a wider range of strategy options including being able to adjust the length of a driver's stint (the time from when he gets into the car to when he hands over to his teammate). Increasing the amount of time a car spends in the pits also increases the possibility of mistakes however; meaning this event will require even more diligent teamwork than usual.

For this round, the HSVs will be the cars to beat. They obstructed the GT-Rs from taking three victories in a row at Sepang. Suzuka is their home circuit, so their desire to win here will be stronger than ever. Of course it can be a double-edged sword as it's like two sides of the same coin; wanting victory coupled with the pressure that they "must win at this circuit".

The Lexus entries, which have been struggling to get a proper rhythm since the opening round, seem to have found their own strength since the official test at Suzuka in July. Also it's fresh in the memory that the #39 DENSO SARD SC430 clinched the 2nd step of the podium as it demonstrated the start of its counterattack at the previous round at SUGO.

Last year, the Suzuka round was held in the middle of summer with a distance of 700kms and featured the only nighttime running of the season. This year, due to the impact of the Great East Japan Earthquake, the length of each round has been shortened and the nighttime running cancelled. Under this situation, a direct comparison with regular season activity may not make sense, however the #23 MOTUL AUTECH GT-R finished in 2nd after overcoming its 46kg handicap weight here last year. Also, in 2008, the #12 Calsonic IMPUL GT-R won the race - so it seems that GT-Rs are favourites at Suzuka in the heat of mid-summer. Depending on how well each team matches the circumstances will determine their overall performance at this most challenging of rounds.





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Nissan Announces U.S. Pricing for 2012 Armada and Titan