2011 Nissan Leaf prototype

2011 Nissan Leaf prototype

One of the biggest questions in my mind with new cars as an automotive journalist and consumer is how useable they are for my lifestyle and others. This is especially true with emerging technology, whether that is a new style of entertainment system, safety system or hybrid and electric cars. The last two are harder to try before you buy because a lot of times availability of these cutting edge vehicles is limited. For example, how many people do you think have been able to drive a Mitsubishi iMiEV, Tesla or the new and engaging Nissan Leaf? If you answered not many, then we would agree with you, but one rental car company is seeking to change that.

2011 Nissan LEAF prototype

2011 Nissan LEAF prototype

Hertz, arguably one of the largest rental car companies around the globe, announced last week that it would make the all-new and fully electric Nissan Leaf available at select rental locations in the U.S. and Europe. The four-door hatchbacks should arrive at Hertz locations starting next year and will most likely be paired with green conscious customers that meet a criteria fitting with the 100-mile range of the Leaf. Besides offering customers a green option for their rental experience in their hometown or abroad, this could also be a great way for people to try-before-buying.

For a lot of consumers, including myself, there is a skepticism still associated with all-electric vehicles. Specifically, we aren’t sure if they are up to the task of daily driving duties. However, if you could rent one for a week, that could really give a person all the data they need and it is probably Nissan’s bet that they would go order a Leaf of their own. I would love to try this out myself to see if it could handle my 80 mile roundtrip to work and back.

If you are looking for more information on the 2011 Nissan Leaf, check out the Nissan educational website here. Also check out the other three electric models to come from Nissan here.