Cavan dealer gets electric with the new Nissan LEAF

A car with no oil, no petrol tank, no transmission, no exhaust pipe... it's a revolution in the motoring world and it's coming from Nissan in the shape of the LEAF, the world's first mass-produced, fully electric family car. It is making its European debut in Ireland this month, and next Tuesday, August 17, there is an opportunity for an exclusive test drive at the Four Seasons Hotel, Dublin, with Cavan Motors Ltd, which has been appointed the main Nissan LEAF Dealer for Cavan, Monaghan, Louth, Meath, Westmeath, Longford, Roscommon, Mayo, Leitrim and Donegal. If you are interested in a test drive, contact Peter or Eugene at Cavan Motors to book an appointment on 049-4331233 or 086-8221928. The new LEAF offers the most exciting, practical and stylish way to own an electric vehicle. Powered by compact lithium-ion batteries for fast-charging and a range of approximately 160km, the LEAF is intelligently designed five-seat family car with regenerative braking, ultra-smooth aerodynamics and even low energy headlights. It has the performance of a 1.6 litre petrol engine and can be recharged to 80% battery capacity in around 25 minutes from a fast charging point. There will be one version of the LEAF available in Ireland, fully equipped with features such as 16-inch alloy wheels, fully automatic climate control, satellite navigation, cruise control, a rear parking camera and a quick charge socket. Safety equipment such as driver, passenger, side and curtain airbags will be standard along with electronic stability control. Equipment will also include the distinctive LED headlamps - a first for Nissan. Innovative smart phone connectivity will allow an owner to control many elements of the LEAF's functions remotely, including tell the car when to recharge, to heat or cool the interior before starting a journey and many more remarkable features. The sat-nav on the LEAF can connect directly to a global data centre via the telematics system, giving owners updates on charging points and driving patterns. Power comes from the 80kw AC motor, which develops 280Nm of torque, enough for a maximum speed of more than 140kmh. Thanks to the near instant response from its electric motor, the Nissan LEAF offers startling performance from a standstill, and it's delivered in near silence with no vibrations. The electric motor is 'fuelled' by a laminated lithium-ion battery with a power output of more than 90kw. The 48-module battery is mounted under the seats and floor of the LEAF, ensuring a low centre of gravity for near roll free cornering with excellent ride comfort. The battery is produced by Automotive Energy Supply Corporation (AESC), Nissan's joint venture with electronics maker NEC. A full charge delivers a potential range of 160km, which will satisfy the daily driving demands of most customers. Global research indicates that the average daily mileage for 80% of the world's population is below 100km and below 50km in Japan and the UK.