Nissan is turning over...

Nissan is turning over a new leaf! The Japanese firm has unveiled its first specifically-designed electric car, the Leaf, which it claims is the world"s first affordable, zero-emission passenger vehicle.

The "Leaf" takes the form of a medium-sized hatchback, there"s comfortably room for five adults, while a combination of the car"s laminated lithium-ion battery pack and regenerative braking system push the real-world range to around 100-miles.

Powered by the 90kW battery stack, the elctric motor delivers the equivalent 109bhp and a healthy 280Nm of torque from zero rpm, so it should perform with all the enthusiasm of a petrol-powered hatch. Using Nissan"s optional quick charger, the batteries can be topped up to 80 per cent in just 30 minutes, or fully charged in eight hours using a conventional socket.

The distinctive design is characteriesed by the bulbous vertical LED headlights, which are not only a style feature but help to split and redirect airflow away from the door mirrors, thus reducing air resistance. Passengers are greeted by a futuristic cabin featuring a large touch-screen and blue dashboard highlights and instrument illumination.

An advanced It system, connected to a global data centre, provides support and information to drivers - such as visual updates of nearby charging stations. There"s even the function to use your mobile phone to turn on the air-conditioning and control charging settings remotely.

There"s no word on price just yet - we"ll know more closer to to its Japanese, American and European launch in late 2010. However Nissan has revealed that it will be priced similarly to a well-equipped VW Golf-sized vehicle, so expect prices to start from around чЈ15,000.