The auto show wasn't quite as big as I had expected. My only interest in going was to test drive the Nissan Leaf, but I did enjoy seeing a lot of the old classic luxury cars on display along with all the beautiful model like rep's from each manufacture. My favorite car at the show was the prototype Corvette Stingray which was featured in the new Transformer movie. I was really looking forward to seeing the new 2010 Impreza Concept and the rally inspired Ford Fiesta, but were not available. Turn's out Nissan has been going at it since 1947 and have spent over 10 yrs researching and developing their current battery technology. They are on their first release where there is warmer climate allowing these batteries to perform better. They are working on the next release where they'll be including a battery warmer for the colder states where the temperatures drop below zero. They have put a lot of thought into developing this car, everything from three different levels of charging down to your ability to schedule your charges and remotely notifying you if you forget. I was really hoping to get a chance to test drive the car on a technical course outside in a huge parking lot; given this was in SF that wasn't an option. The car has very good turning radius, great brake assist and great overall visibility. I was able to utilize the brakes while on the throttle with traction control and stability control on. For a car that's leading the future it didn't make me feel weirded out, the layout of the interior was quite simple to figure out and driving the car felt just like a normal gasoline car, except for the noise. They spent a lot of time developing just the right design to maximize energy, some of those include the headlights and how they are sticking out like fins from cars from the 60's. And a rear lip off the roof to help guide the air away reducing drag. The big question everyone's dying to know is how far they can go on a full charge. They said in extreme conditions 68 miles with the AC running and driving at 80mph in cold temperatures. In nice weather and city driving 132 miles. Overall I really like this car and I'm giving it 9 out of 10, best price out there for a full EV when comparing it with the Tesla. You won't need to insert a key, there's a reverse camera along with a 2" screen. And its practical for the community, you can go out on a date, get to and from work, and still have room for three other friends. And yes this car has dead paddle and power steering. Low maintenance, no more oil changes, just tire rotation, 8 yr 100k warranty. The only current drawback is the fact that there's isn't enough recharging stations available that will allow you to drive across the country. But that will soon change as there's already on highway that has one within every 30mins. I'll post up a like for the pictures later tonight when I get home.
Thanks, I was surprised how much I enjoyed the Range Rover's since I got to test drive one over the man made dirt mounds and the old classic cars.
