NISSAN LEAF MAKES A TRIP TO UH � NO GAS REQUIRED
 Eco-conscious
commuters can skip the pumps altogether, and simply unplug and
go with the new Nissan Leaf. A troupe of the new model of the
100% electric car made a stop at UH during Nissan Leaf�s Drive
Electric Tour. Students, faculty and staff took the cars for a
test drive and heard about the innovative technology that is
making driving less harmful to the earth.
The Nissan Leaf is an alternative automobile with no tailpipe
and no emissions to reduce effects on the environment. Each
model has a 600 pound battery containing 24 kwh that powers the
vehicle. A fully charged battery can run for an average of 100
miles. Distances depend on use of air conditioner/heater for
climate control, speeds driven, driving style and cargo and
topography.
During the test drive, drivers were given quick instructions on
the vehicle controls and capabilities. Each model has a monitor
where the driver can view the amount of energy and view a map to
see their traveling radius. When the driver turns on the air
conditioner or makes other adjustments, the amount of miles
displayed will adjust automatically.
UH plans to include around 10 car charging stations in the new
stadium parking garage due for completion by summer 2012. UH
Parking and Transportation is also currently exploring the
demand for an electric vehicle as part of the Hertz on Demand
car sharing program and looks forward to providing the green
commuting options that the campus desires.
Click here for more information
on the Nissan Leaf. For more information of green commuting
options at UH, visit
https://www.uh.edu/pts/greencommute.htm.
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