Doug Robinson, Brandon Haynes, Glenn Gibson, Craig Randolph and Jay Bray of Jay Rosario Wesley Chapel Nissan stand behind the 2012 Nissan Leaf as Steve and Darlene Russell take the keys of their totally electric vehicle from Troy Stevenson. Owners of a late model Prius-Hybrid, Steve and Darlene Russell were no strangers to alternate fuel source vehicles when they took ownership of their 2012 Nissan Leaf SL from Wesley Chapel Nissan, (located on Wesley Chapel Blvd SR54 and I 75) in fact Steve was already an expert of the vehicle he called, truly revolutionary. The proud owner had done his research and here is some information provided by Nissan themselves.

Does the “engine compartment” just contain the smaller electric motor or is there the potential for more trunk space?

The electric motor and invertor only fill the front compartment due to their size and layout, therefore, we've maximized interior and cargo space in the rest of the vehicle.

How long will the battery remain charged if you leave it parked where you cannot charge it?

This depends on a variety of factors like ambient temperature, age of the battery and how much energy is in the battery when you park it. However, the drain is very small relative to the battery's capacity.

Is the Nissan LEAFâ„¢ going to have the Zero Emission logo on it?

The Zero Emission badge is located on the back of every Nissan LEAFâ„¢ vehicle. In addition, you have the option to purchase a zero emissions body graphic as an accessory on your vehicle.

Since the battery is in the front, is there something protecting it in case of a collision?

The battery is actually located under the seats and is fully integrated into the body structure. It has been tested for impact safety and meets or exceeds all regulatory standards - the same as any Nissan. The Nissan LEAF™ has also earned a Top Safety Pick rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety as well as a 5-star overall vehicle rating for safety as part of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s New Car Assessment Program (NCAP).

In case of a problem, can a qualified mechanic fix a Nissan LEAFâ„¢? Is special training needed?

The Nissan LEAFâ„¢ has an electric motor and no gasoline engine, so it will require service at your local LEAFâ„¢ certified Nissan dealership by a qualified, trained EV technician.

How can I test drive a Nissan LEAFâ„¢?

We are holding an event tour where consumers can test drive in select cities. Visit our website to learn more. In addition, check with your local dealership. They may have a demonstrator vehicle to test drive.

Will my golf clubs fit in the trunk?

Yes – the Nissan LEAF™ is a family car with ample passenger and cargo space.

Does it sound like driving an electric golf cart? I would imagine it would be virtually silent?

The driving experience is exceptionally quiet, but Nissan LEAF™ is definitely not a golf cart – it’s a real car.

What company is supplying the laminated lithium-ion batteries?

The battery is being built by AESC, the Automotive Energy Supply Corporation.

Is there a lease-only program, or are only purchases allowed?

The Nissan LEAFâ„¢ is available to lease or purchase.

Will the maintenance cost over a few years be more or less than a similar gas engine vehicle?

Maintenance costs are projected to be equal to or lower than comparably equipped gas-powered cars.

Does the battery location prevent the back seat from folding down?

Not at all – the battery is located in the floor of the car and won’t interfere with interior space.

What is the weight of the car?

The Nissan LEAFâ„¢ has a 3,366 lb curb weight (SV trim level).

What kind of maintenance is required?

Please check out our maintenance guide for full information. The good news is that oil changes aren't needed!

How practical is the Nissan LEAFâ„¢ to own? Do I need to keep a gas-powered car as a backup or own only the Nissan LEAFâ„¢?

It all depends on your needs. Most Americans drive much less than 100 miles per day.

I am 6'1" so interior dimensions are important to me. What are they?

The Nissan LEAFâ„¢ is spacious and seats 5. The interior dimensions are as follows: head room (front/rear) 41.2 in/37.3 in. - hip room (front/rear) 51.5 in/50 in. - leg room (front/rear) 42.1 in/31.1 in. - shoulder room (front/rear) 54.4 in/52.5 in. - cargo volume 14.5 ft.

How is it doing in crash test ratings?

The Nissan LEAF™ (like all Nissan cars) is built to meet or exceed federal safety regulations and our own rigorous internal testing. The Nissan LEAF™ has also earned a Top Safety Pick rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety as well as a 5-star overall vehicle rating for safety as part of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s New Car Assessment Program (NCAP).

What kind of warranty does the Nissan LEAFâ„¢ have?

The Nissan LEAFâ„¢ Basic Warranty Coverage is 36 months/36,000 miles. The Powertrain Coverage is 60 months/60,000 miles. The Lithium-ion Battery Coverage is 96 months/100,000 miles.

Could we get a tax deduction for owning one since it's so eco-friendly?

The federal government provides up to $7,500 tax credit for eligible EV buyers and a tax credit for installing a home charger if they have the tax liability to seek the credits. Depending on where you live, there can be state/local incentives too - use our incentives tool to see what's available in your area.

Where will the Nissan LEAFâ„¢ be built?

The Nissan LEAFâ„¢ will be built in Japan for the first 2 years and then built in Tennessee starting in late 2012 for mass production. Watch the groundbreaking ceremony for our Smyrna, Tennessee plant here.

Where are the batteries located? Will they take up a lot of the hatch space?

The battery is located in the floor of the vehicle, so it has a minimal intrusion into the interior space.

How long does the "quick charge" take, and will it be available for home use?

In select markets, 480V quick-charging systems are now available and provide an 80% charge in under 30 minutes. For all markets, we still recommend a standard 208-240V home charging in collaboration with Aerovironment. Quick charging will likely be available only at public stations or businesses.

How much will a replacement battery cost?

At this point, an estimated cost cannot be provided. We’ll be able to share more as information becomes available. You can sign up to stay in the loop.

Can the Nissan LEAFâ„¢ be towed by lifting the front and leaving the rear wheels on the ground?

Towing procedures are outlined in the Owner's Manual provided with the vehicle.

Is this an electric Versa?

The Nissan LEAF™ uses an exclusive platform. It’s a true individual!

What is it – a compact or full size?

The Nissan LEAFâ„¢ is a compact, 5-door family hatchback, with seating for 5 (3 child seats fit in the back seat).

Will the price include the battery pack? Or will there be an option to rent/lease the battery pack?

The total cost of the vehicle will include the battery pack. Both lease and purchase options will be available for the vehicle, but no option to rent/lease just the battery pack.

Is the Nissan LEAFâ„¢ available outside the US?

The Nissan LEAFâ„¢ is now available in Canada, Japan and certain European countries in addition to the select markets in the United States.

There is great anticipation for the Nissan LEAFâ„¢! Can we have the estimated price?

For the 2012 Nissan LEAFâ„¢, net as low as $27,700 after tax savings with the maximum $7500 federal tax credit if you are eligible and have the tax liability. Depending on where you live, there can be additional state/local incentives.

Photos of this event by Anthony V. Masella Jr. can be found at www.OurtownFLA.com.