Nissan LEAF pricing beats out Chevy Volt, time to go all electric?

No doubt, the Chevy Volt has a compelling value proposition with its ability to use gas or electric energy. That grants it some utility over Nissan’s LEAF which can only use electric juice because it can pull energy from the existing network of gas stations. But will that utility convince consumers to spend more?

GM hasn’t announced its official pricing strategy for the Chevy Volt yet but in the past it’s suggested pricing in the $40,000 range and more recently hinted at the low $30,000s. With Nissan taking a stance by announcing an MSRP of $32,780 or $25,280 after tax credits, that certainly puts some pressure on GM to target the same range. Especially because the vehicles are on similar launch schedules with similar target audiences.

The base Nissan LEAF comes with some decent features and there’s an option to upgrade:

The Nissan LEAF™ will have two trim levels available: the SV and the SL.

The SV trim level includes an advanced navigation system and Internet/smart phone connectivity to the vehicle.

The SL trim level adds several convenience features, including rearview monitor, solar panel spoiler, fog lights, and automatic headlights for an additional $940 (MSRP).

It sounds like home charging station installer AeroVironment is getting a sweet deal too as it will offer its services as part of the “one-stop shopping process”. That would put a 220-volt charger in easy reach of the Nissan LEAF which reduces charge times dramatically. The installation runs around $2,200 and is eligible for a 50% federal tax credit.

The government certainly is playing a central role in making electric and hybrid vehicles affordable. With the Nissan LEAF and Chevy Volt launching soon it’s clear that true competition for fuel efficient vehicles is heating up and that the Toyota Prius will no longer be the only clear option for mainstream consumers.