Nissan Leaf vs. Chevrolet Volt
These two cars seem to be the greatest competition in the hybrid market right now since they are both some of the newest technology that is being offered from either company. However, how do they stake up against one another. There are many things to take into consideration when trying to choose a favorite between the two.
Engine and Horsepower
The Nissan Leaf is a fully electric car that is running on no gasoline whatsoever. Thus, the engine size is really not a detail that the person is going to have to spend time on when they are choosing this car. However, in terms of horsepower, the Leaf is going to put out around 107, which the person needs to consider, is on battery alone.
The Chevrolet Volt works on battery power for a short amount of time and then relies on a gasoline engine to do the rest of the work. In terms of horsepower, the Volt is going to put out around 149. So in terms of power, the Volt is going to out do the Leaf on any day.
Charging Time
Since both cars are going to rely on a battery at some point while being driven, or during the whole trip in the case of the Leaf, it is important to know about the charging of the batteries in each of these vehicles. For those that have a Leaf, then they are going to find that to get a full charge at home, they are going to see the car plugged up for around four to eight hours. Of course, using higher powered units, the charging time is going to be less. But how far can you go on this charge? Most estimates have the Leaf going around one hundred miles on a fully charged battery.
The Volt's battery is going to take around three hours at home to fully charge. However, it works very differently from the Leaf. The battery is going to work for around forty miles, then the gasoline engine is going to take over for the Volt. In terms of charging time, the Volt is going to give less time, but not half as many miles as the Leaf is going to give the driver.
Size
Both cars are ultimately about the same size, they are going to haul four adults. Though, those people that are located in the back of the car are not going to have a very cozy trip since the leg room and head room is a bit diminished. Otherwise, the person is going to find that they are typical cars in what they have to offer.
Conclusion
Which is the best car to own? For those that are making short trips to and from their job or have another car to rely on, then the Leaf is going to complexly eliminate the need to stop at the pump, which could save you even more money. However, for those that are wanting something that is just easier on gas since they travel more than one hundred miles per day, the Volt is going to be the choice to make.
