Nissan LEAF MSRP Pricing Announced

Think you can’t afford an electric car? Think again …

The Nissan LEAF’s price has been set at an eye-opening $32,780. A Federal electric vehicle (EV) tax credit of $7,500 knocks the cost down to just $25,280. Individual state tax and local credits should ensure that the LEAF sells out in EV-crazed areas. Given the EV frenzy in California, we expect that dealers in the state will tack on a host of premiums.

With a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $32,780, Nissan has drawn a line in the sand. When the cost of fuel and tax credits are factored in, the LEAF’s MSRP puts it clearly into the acquisition range of a great many drivers. The acquisition cost includes three years of roadside assistance.

Nissan will open the door for reservations on April 20th via their website, with a $99 (refundable) deposit.

Nissan will undoubtedly take a financial loss on every LEAF sold. It’s unclear how extensive the loss might be.

The Nissan LEAF’s range of 100 miles per charge should hit the sweet spot for a great many commuters. Nissan states that “extensive consumer research demonstrates that this range satisfies the daily driving requirements of more than 70% of the world’s consumers who drive cars.” Whether or not it meets your demands remains to be seen, as American commutes tend to be longer than those abroad.

It will cost approximately $2,200 to install the LEAF’s 200V overnight charging station. A federal tax credit will cover 50% of the costs. Quick charging will eventually be available in select commercial locations. Consumers should not expect to install high-voltage quick chargers in their personal garages.

The Nissan LEAF’s battery pack uses laminated compact lithium-ion technology. On-board GPS technology ensures that the driver is constantly aware of the LEAF battery pack’s “reachable area,” as it displays “a selection of nearby charging stations.”

While the Nissan LEAF’s release date has not been set, Nissan maintains that the EV is “slated for launch in late 2010 in Japan, the United States, and Europe.” We expect to see test vehicles arrive at some point this fall and will deliver a proper Nissan LEAF review just as soon as possible.

Leasing a Nissan LEAF may prove to be an excellent alternative for many. Nissan is offering a $349 per month leasing plan for 36 months that factors in the $7,500 federal tax credit. A $1,999 initial payment is required.