The 2012 all-electric Leaf from Nissan is easier to come by now that models will be released in 36 states. Over in Europe, Leaf EV's are still new. In order to promote the electric car, Nissan is giving away rechargers. 400 quick charger devices will be delivered to EV charging stations across EU. During an announcement made about the giveaway, Nissan said the devices are essential to making EV-driving mainstream.

Quick-chargers allow EV batteries to recharge in short periods of time. You won't receive a full charge, but the quick bursts of energy will take about the same amount of time as filling up a car with gasoline. The advanced lithium ion batteries in Leaf can be recharged from zero to 80% capacity in 30 minutes.

"With a significant number of (quick chargers) available across Europe, EV owners will be able to recharge quickly no matter where they go. We believe this is essential for the mass adoption of EVs," Pierre Loing, VP of Nissan's product planning.¹

Official US EPA government ratings for 2012 models were released last week, stating that Nissan Leaf's "MPG" rating is a combined 73 miles city/hwy!

You can learn all about the science and tech behind Leaf and the charging process at Boardwalk Nissan, located at 1 Bair Island Road in Redwood City, CA 94063.

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