Today, Nissan announced that its upcoming Leaf electric vehicle will sell for $32,780, plus $800 destination. A $7,500 federal tax credit for electric cars will bring the total cost down to $25,280. A three-year lease will be available for $349 a month.
Buyers will also have to purchase a 220-volt home charger for the car. Costs will vary by location, because of installation charges. Nissan estimates the cost of the charger plus installation will average about $2,200, although another federal tax rebate will offset $2,000 of that expense. Local tax credits may also be available, including a $5,000 tax rebate in California.
Nissan says the Leaf will have a range of about 100 miles between charges and will cost about $3 to recharge.
Nissan also announced more details about trim levels. The base SV model will come with a navigation system that can be used to find charging spots and minimize driving routes; remote cell-phone connectivity to pre-heat and cool the vehicle; Bluetooth; and satellite radio. For an additional $940, the SL trim level adds a backup camera, fog lights, automatic headlights, and a spoiler with solar panels.
The Leaf will rollout in Seattle; Oregon; Tennessee; Phoenix and Tucson, Ariz.; and San Diego in December, and follow later in other markets. Nissan will begin taking $99 deposits on April 20.
source: consumerreports
