The Nissan LEAF isn't just another car. It's the first mass-market EV ever produced and thus responsible for growing environmental awareness and responsibility. Perhaps even more impressive is the understated, yet impactful way in which it has done this. Everything - from its Nissan-exclusive, EV-IT technology to its contemporary styling - works in its favor... not to mention fuel economy that promises to put even the most conservative petrol models to shame. For the 2012 model year, that's 106 miles per gallon (mpg)/city and 92mpg/highway. You don't just have to take our word for it, or your neighbors, either. With eight accolades and counting, the Nissan LEAF is one car that speaks for itself.

The first distinction the Nissan LEAF earned was the "2010 Breakthrough Award", from Popular Mechanics magazine. The EV then went on to win multiple awards for its safety. The LEAF has been recognized by Ward's for carrying one of the "10 Best Engines". It even carries the "2011 World Car of the Year" title, which holds even more weight now, thanks to the Japan Automotive Hall of Fame naming the LEAF "2011-2012 JAHFA Car of the Year" and "2011-2012 JAHFA Car Design of the Year."

To win the latter two titles, as well as the six others the Nissan LEAF now has under its belt, the EV had to meet the criteria of a most stringent selection committee. Among the reasons the JAHFA critics named the LEAF "Car of the Year" is for the courage displayed in taking the first EV to market on a large scale; it's attractive, competitive package complete with advanced in-car technology and connectivity features; and exclusive EV-IT system, which eases/enhances vehicle operation.

The Nissan LEAF EV's thoughtful styling is also among the reasons JAHFA chose it for their "Car Design of the Year" award. Other, more granular reasons include the EV's modern interior design as well as it's hyper-aerodynamic design, which at once enhances vehicle performance and efficiency and reduces wind noise.

Curious to learn more? Contact Charles Barker Nissan today or visit us at 1250 N Military Highway Norfolk, VA 23502. We're happy to share complete details, compare model years, help you decide whether or not an EV lifestyle is right for you, and arrange test drives. And, if the LEAF is not currently available in our expansive showroom, we're happy to order it for you.