Leaf Makes Going Green a Breeze

Memphis, Tn - Clint Bray and his family have had their 2011 Nissan Leaf for about a month. He says the car is so technologically advanced, it’s like being in a video game.

“It sounds like an X-Box when you turn it on. It makes the be-be-boop sound, it’s pretty cool."

Pretty cool, and pretty practical for this family of four. He can get to and from work, pick up the kids and run errands, all on one charge.

If he forgets to plug it at night, his car sends him a text to remind him.

When asked if he knew what the price of gas was, Clint responded, “I don't know. I don't care. I don't even know what it is now."

He says his first MLGW bill was only $50 higher than normal. His garage charging station was installed by a federally backed program called the EV project, which is studying how people use their electric cars.

Tennessee is one of six states, plus the District of Columbia, participating in the program. Memphis is one of just four cities in Tennessee.

They start at $32,000, but Memphians are eligible for up to $10,000 in tax credits.

"It’s automatic. You've got power windows, doors, cruise control, navigation, blue tooth," said Jim Keras salesman Maurice Walker.

The seats are made from recycled bottles and a rear camera comes standard.
Walker says people have tried to offer him cash on the spot for the car, but this one, like all the cars that arrive at the dealership is already sold.

"They're in awe. Most folks that come in are surprised because it is a real car. It’s a very good size. It can usually fit their family."

To get one, you go one Nissan's website and pay 99 dollars, to "wait in line."

Walker says it takes about four months until Nissan sends you an invitation to buy. You then go online, and build your car exactly how you want it and it’s ready in 90 days.

Walker says this is the future of cars in America, “I think it’s definitely coming, a lot of the companies are going to jump on the same band wagon, and they are going to move from the hybrid to the electric."

Although still in its infancy, Walker says the electric technology is already very solid.

The car comes with a portable charge pack that can be plugged in the wall, in case of road trips. It can take a full day for a full charge, but should only cost your host a couple bucks.

The front of the car has a quick charge port for a 30 minute charge.

There are no quick charging stations yet in Memphis, but they are coming.

The first public 7-8 hour charge plug in was installed in the Peabody downtown. The EV project will install one in your garage if you buy a car and sign up for the project.

Clint Bray had them get the connections ready for a second charging station, for when he can buy an electric car for his wife too.

"I highly recommend it. It’s a great car. It’s only going to get cooler after this."