newsgaze » Features

RIM launches BlackBerry Curve 9360 at Rs 19,990

Editorial Team — Sun, 02 Oct 2011 08:22:28 +0000

Research In Motion (RIM) launched BlackBerry Curve 9360 with the BlackBerry 7 Operating System (OS) in India. Featuring a 2.44″ 480×360 Resolution screen & running on extreme 800MHz processor makes it faster than existing BlackBerry 6 handsets i.e. BlackBerry Torch 9800 & BlackBerry Bold 9780. The BlackBerry Curve 9360 looks great and performs even better, says the company.

Equipped with a 5MP camera with LED flash, BlackBerry Curve 9360 is priced at Rs. 19,990 along 18months warranty.

BlackBerry Curve 9360

BlackBerry Curve 9360 enables the user faster loading, faster scrolling and faster zooming. It’s the fastest BlackBerry experience to date. The premium BlackBerry Curve 9360 smartphones feature the most powerful engine ever in a BlackBerry smartphone.

BlackBerry 7 is the next generation BlackBerry OS, packed with powerful new features and innovative apps. Augmented reality introduces exciting new ways to interact with the world around you, and with Near Field Communication1 (NFC) built-in, you can connect with other NFC-enabled devices and smart tags. BlackBerry 7 technology gives powerful graphics, smoother scrolling and improved browsing – one can find all his or her favourite things online quicker and better than ever before.

The technology is so amazing that whether the user needs to find a friend’s number or listen to a favourite tune without delay, just say the word and the new BlackBerry 7 voice-activated search will do the rest. On BlackBerry Curve 9360, manual searche is a thing of past. Now the BlackBerry Curve 9360 user can create a list of all his or her favourite social feeds, podcasts and blogs and enjoy real-time updates. The user can even search feeds using the universal search tool

The sleek and lightweight new BlackBerry Curve 9360, which is 11 mm thick and weighs at 99 gm, is a must-have for socially active lives.

BlackBerry Curve 9360 allows the user to get real-time social alerts – even when one is not logged into an app. Use one-click social messaging to share pics, lists and party dates. And merge all your events into one single calendar – so you’re always in the know.

The dam built across the Jawai River

Editorial Team — Sun, 02 Oct 2011 07:32:03 +0000

By Harpreet Kaur

Jawai River Dam

Jawai Dam or Jawai bandh is built across the Jawai river in Sumerpur tehsil of Pali district. It is one of the biggest dams in western Rajasthan. Sei dam and Kalibor dam are feeder dams for the Jawai Dam.

You can view the dam from the top of Castle Bera. The Jawai river originates in the Aravallis and flows besides the Bera village. This is the largest manmade dam in western Rajasthan. The Jawai River is one of the tributaries of the Luni River. The other large dam located in the area is the Sadar Samand Dam.

This dam is also a paradise for migratory birds in winter, and the dam is a host to the Jawai Dam Crocodile Sanctuary, a home to marshy crocodiles. The forests close to the dam is a good place to spot a leopard roaming free. The lake formed due to this dam is home to the biggest e to crocodile sanctuary.

This dam was built by Maharaja Umaid Singh in 1946. The dam has a capacity of 7887.5 million cubic feet and covers an area of 102,315 acres of cultivable area. The height is about 61.2 feet.

The dam and its surrounding area are paradise for migratory birds. It supplies water to villages of Jalore and Pali district for irrigation. It is home to cranes of all types, comb duck, spotbill duck, demmossile, sarus, barheaded geese, and other birds.

Jawai Dam Crocodile Sanctuary and the Kambeshwarji Leopard sanctuary is also situated nearby. The place is a heaven for marshy crocodiles and panther, bear, hyena, wolf, nilgai, chinkara, jackals, and jungle cats.

Closeby is the Kortaescape at korta about 10 km from Jawai Dam. It is a historic place and is rich in history, culture, and tradition. Korta has many 10^th century temples. It is surrounded by the Aravalli range.

Jawai river dam in Sumerpur tehsil, Pali, Rajasthan

History

Pali traces its origins in Mahabharat and was a part of the `baalla desh`, a democratic` state of the Arbuda province. The legendary Chinese traveler Huen-Tsang mentions Pali in his wrtings as in 667 AD, as a part of the Gurjar Desh and was administered by local bodies. Geologists have found traces of pre-historic civilization in Pali and that it emerged from the western sea that was once spread over present day Rajasthan. It was ruled by King Harshavardhana of the Chalukya dynasty until the end of the 7th century. During 10th to 15th century Pali boundaries extended to join Mewar, Godwad and Marwar. Rajput rulers resisted foreign invaders individually. Pali saw many battles during the 16th and 17th centuries. But by this time Pali was under the rathores of Marwar. It was rehabilitated by Maharaja Vijay Singh and became an important commercial centre. Pali was also the pioneer in freedom struggle. Various Thakurs of Pali under Thakur of Auwa confronted the British.

Ashok Leyland launches LCV ‘Dost’, priced Rs 3.79 lakh

Editorial Team — Thu, 29 Sep 2011 04:57:09 +0000

Ashok Leyland launched ‘Dost’ – its first entry in India’s fast expanding LCV segment— in Mumbai after Chennai on September 12. It also marks the first vehicle to be launched from its Joint Venture with Nissan Motor Company, said the company. Dost was launched in Chennai with a price tag of Rs 3.79 lakhs to Rs 4.39 lakhs (ex-showroom – Chennai).

Dost will be sold through a modern dealership network with brand new infrastructure which will grow to 60 main nodes by the end of the current fiscal.

Dost, which has a payload capacity of 1.25 tonne, will be available in three versions with the top-end version featuring air-conditioning, power steering, dual-colour beige-gray trim and fabric seats. The customer will have a palette of three colours to choose from: white, beige and blue. As another ‘first’ in the LCV industry, Ashok Leyland will offer Ready-to-Use Vehicles (RUVs) on the Dost platform for various applications such as Refrigerated containers, Steel containers, Ambulance, Aluminium Fixed Side Decks and Service-At-Site vehicles from the date of launch.

Ashok Leyland Dost enters the Small Commercial Vehicle (SCV) market (below 3.5T) which is witnessing a perceptible upward shift in terms of features, performance and payload. The overall LCV market (up to 7.5T) is growing robustly helped by the increase in urbanisation, organized retailing, improved rural connectivity coupled with growth in rural demand. Adding to this are factors like increased focus on the hub-and-spoke model.

The Ashok Leyland Dost is being initially launched in the 4 Southern states (Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Kerala), Maharashtra and Gujarat and will be made available across the country in a phased manner as the production ramp up is executed.

Nokia N9 begins shipping

Editorial Team — Thu, 29 Sep 2011 04:52:44 +0000

The Nokia N9, designed for people who appreciate exceptional design and craftsmanship as well as the latest smartphone technology, has begun shipping to customers and stores. The estimated retail price of the Nokia N9 16GB and 64GB is approximately EUR 480 and EUR 560 before applicable taxes or subsidies, with pricing and availability varying from region to region and operator to operator, says the company.

Nokia N9 features an intuitive user interface that’s controlled with a simple swipe. With no home key, there’s more room for apps to shine. Three home views – Applications, Events and Live Applications – enable people to navigate through the smartphone easily and get to their favourite content faster.

Nokia N9 has a big 3.9-inch AMOLED screen made of scratch-resistant curved glass. Also, the N9 has easy single-tap pairing with NFC-enabled accessories such as the Nokia Play 360 wireless speaker and sharing of content through NFC technology.
Nokia N9 features an 8-megapixel Carl Zeiss autofocus sensor and wide-angle lens for HD-quality video and photo capture, and large lens aperture for great camera performance even in low-lighting conditions; easy capture and share of images and videos with social networks.

For entertainment, N9 has Mobile Internet radio, with a great range of music out-of-the-box and no fees or account creation necessary, available for the first time as part of the Nokia Music offering; just press play. And the music sounds even better on the first smartphone to come with Dolby Digital Plus decoding and Dolby Headphone post-processing technology.

N9 also features free turn-by-turn drive and walk navigation with voice-guided maps for more than 100 countries and in more than 50 languages. Besides these, N9 features top social networking, communication, entertainment and gaming apps preloaded for a hassle-free out-of-the-box experience.

The Nokia N9 is available in three colours – black, cyan and magenta with 16GB and 64GB storage options to accommodate plenty of content and will be on sale in countries around the world.

“Since we announced the Nokia N9 in June this year, the feedback that it has gotten from discerning and avid smartphone users across the world has been nothing short of fantastic,” said Ilari Nurmi, Vice President of Marketing, Nokia. “With the innovations in industrial design, user interface, and the Qt developer experience, the Nokia N9 sets the bar for how natural technology can feel, and represents the first in a number of products from Nokia that will be brought to life in similar fashion.”

Skoda Laura RS makes its way to India

Editorial Team — Fri, 23 Sep 2011 04:29:24 +0000

Photo: Skoda Laura RS

ŠkodaAuto India, a fully owned subsidiary of Czech Republic-based ŠkodaAuto a.s., drove in the most anticipated cars to India, the all new “Skoda Laura RS”. The petrol variant of Laura RS is priced at Rs 15,19,906 (ex. showroom Maharashtra), said the company.

Skoda has added lot of features in the Laura RS for improved comfort, convenience and safety. The advanced direct injection technology with turbocharging translates to superlative refinement, class-leading performance and low consumption.

Skoda Laura RS is powered by the 1.8 TSI petrol engine, which generates maximum power of 160 bhp with maximum torque of 250 Nm at at 1500-4500 rpm. The engine guarantees an exceptional performance and at the same time provides efficient fuel consumption. Skoda Laura RS has 6-speed fully synchronized manual gearbox.

The exterior of Skoda Laura RS looks racy as well as muscular. It features Xenon curve projector headlights with dynamic leveling, 16″ Draconis sporty alloy wheels, equipped with 205/55 R16 tyres, they provide safety, performance and enhanced driving comfort, front chrome garnishing on the radiator grille, RS badge on the front and rear lid, sporty front and rear bumpers, integrated rear spoiler, polished exhaust pipes, turn indicators on ORVMs, headlight washers and LED position lights and braking system along with TPM (Tyre Pressure Monitoring).

On safety, Skoda Laura RS features dual front airbags and side front airbags, Seatbelt pre-tensioners for front seats, driver seatbelt warning light, the seatbelts are adjustable at the front and rear, two Isofix child-seat preparations on outer back seats, underbody protective cover, acoustic warning signal for overrun speed, fuel supply cut-off in a crash, side door protective strips, door-open indicator, dual-tone warning horn, child-proof rear window and door locking. Anti-lock Braking System ensuring braking safely, Electronic Brake force Distribution, Mechanical Brake Assistant, Hydraulic Brake Assistant, Anti Slip Regulation and Traction Control System.

Skoda Laura RS’ luggage compartment has 560 litres of space and 1430 litres of total luggage space with rear seatbacks folded.

The new Laura RS will be available in four sporty shades of Sprint Yellow, Race Blue, Candy White and Magic Black.
Outside dimensions of Laura RS
Length [mm] 4597
Width [mm] 1769
Height [mm] 1485
Wheel base [mm] 2578
Ground clearance [mm] 164
Weight
Kerb weight [kg] 1380
Gross weight [kg] 1965

Rajput School of Chopasani

Editorial Team — Sun, 18 Sep 2011 12:09:17 +0000

By Harpreet Kaur

Rajasthan is filled with legends of Rajputs and one would love to see where it all begins in this day and age. This institute is filled with the red blooded Rajputs from the various thikanas and families many of which have lost their estates but yet retain the pride and honour.

Powlett Nobles Elgin Rajput

The walls of the hall are filled with pictures of students of yesteryears many of whom joined the First Rajput Regiment.

Although not a new institute this school still makes an impression in the mind and heart when mentioned. Begun in 1875 by Maharaja Pratap Singhji, this school was started for the wards of the Thakurs of Jodhpur state. This school was begun in the same year that Mayo College was begun.

In 1914 His Excellency Lord Hardinge of Penshurst, Viceroy and Governor General of India on 8/2/1914 inaugurated the institution. Maharaja Sir Pratap Singhji, Regent, Jodhpur State, and Lady Hardinge, were present at the inauguration, the new elegant red sandstone built in Rajput Style having an enormous façade. A red sandstone inscription reads: “This building was opened by Baron Hardinge of Penshurst, Viceroy and Governor General on 8th February, 1914.”

The school was originally named Powlett Nobles Elgin Rajput School. A carved marble monogram displays this name at the top of the main school building façade and above it is inscribed “Ran Banka Rathore” in Hindi. Four Boarding Houses were built and are called ”Hardinge House”, ”Elgine House”, “Powlett House” and the last “Pratap House”.

What makes this school special is that it has two very important institutes within this school. These include Rajasthani Sabd Kosh that was begun by Sita Ram Lalas who has been compiling a dictionary and has given 40 years of service to this institute. The other Rajasthani Sodh Sansthan which is a research institute for the scholars and researchers to those who want to discover anything about Rajasthan.

Rajasthani Sabd Kosh

Rajasthani is a rich language and the need of a comprehensive Dictionary was desperately felt. This would facilitate not only the study in Rajasthani language but also of several languages in the Indo-European languages. Renowned linguist and lexicographer Sita Ram Lalas devoted 40 years of yeoman service in the compilation of this glorious work. His efforts were supported by Shri Uday Raj Ujjwal and Pt. Nitya Nand Dadheech. The task of publication of the Rajasthani Sabad-Kosh was taken up by Rajasthani Shodh Sansthan with the inspiration of the then chairperson of the Education Committee Shri Bheron Singh ji Khejadla and Secretary Shri Vijay Singh ji Siriyari. The first volume of the Sabad-Kosh with a long preface by Sansthan’s Director Dr. Narayan Singh Bhati was published in 1962. The volume was acclaimed as a significant academic work by Indian as well as foreign scholars. The volume included two hundred thousand (2 lakh) words. Rajasthan Government and the Government of India generously funded this project of Chopasni Shiksha Samiti and the sub-committee appointed by it utilized all resources available and the contribution of former secretary Col. Thakur (Late) Shyam Singhji has to be brought on record. The sabad-kos was published in nine volumes.

This Sabad-Kosh merits distinction in including thousands of words with examples from literature, dialects, sub-dialects, religion, philosophy, vedic wisdom, astrology and agriculture. Etymologies of each entry and its formations have been traced. An improved version of the sabad-kosh has been revised, edited and published. Besides this, Dr. Saddique Mohammad has edited Muhavra-Kosh (An encyclopedia of proverbs) Sankshipta Rajasthani, Hindi sabad-kosh (A concised Dictionary of Rajasthani) and Rajasthani-Hindi Arthik and Vyaparik sabad-kosh (A Rjasthani Hindi Dictionary of Economic and commercial terms). These have been published. Presently the Rajasthani sabad-kosh bureau is preparing Rajasthani Sanskriti-kosh (A dictionary of Rajasthani Culture) which is expected to be ready for publication soon.

Rajasthano Sodh Sansthan

Rajput School of Chopasani

Rajasthan has been the “heart-land” of India there are many glorious legends of sacrifice, virility, devotion and they glorified Indian history on one hand and fascinated audiences world over through differing aspects of cultural and performing arts. Although much of its literary treasure was destroyed and plundered during different invasions, some of the pricelessly valuable manuscripts have been salvaged and preserved. Intensive research, procurement, classification and editing has gone into making this significant heritage available for posterity and prospective scholars.

The Manuscripts available for specific purpose of research. Rajasthani Shodh Sansthan was established in 1955. Dr. Narain Singh Bhati (1955-1993) was assigned the task of its establishment and structuring it. He gave it the present status and led research from the front. As on date this institute has a national reputation and is a research centre (recognized by Jai Narain Vyas University, Jodhpur for doctoral and post doctoral research in Rajasthani Language, Literature and Medieval History.

Since 1957, Government of Rajasthan has been matching 90% grant-in-aid available to this research institute of quality research. Rajasthan Sahitya Academy (Rajasthan Academy of Letters) and Government of India have been funding special programmes and projects of the institute.

Rajasthani Shodh Sansthan has a rich collection of 16734 rare manuscripts. Besides these several standard publications have attracted a number of scholars from various Indian Universities and overseas. They frequently Visit this institute over 600 of them have been benefited by the invaluable research material by now.

‘Parampara’ (‘the tradition’) is research journal quarterly published by Rajasthani Shodh Sansthan 147 special issues of the journal have been published by now. The institute has a collection of 16743 rare manuscripts, about 300 paintings of Rajput school of painting, speeches of learned speakers and research papers. The Institute guides and assists research scholars by providing catalogues of manuscripts, publications of the anthologies of the works of Rajasthani poets, compilation of Rajasthani Sabad Kosh by organising seminars and symposia on Rajasthani Literature and History. A brief description of sansthan’s activities follows for information.

Parampara, a journal

This is a quarterly publication concentrating on Rajasthani culture. These are special issues many of them collectibles like the one on Dingal-Kosh, Rajasthani Sahitya ka Aadi kaal (Ancient period of Rajasthani), Rajasthani sahitya ka Madhya Kaal (Medieval period of Rajasthani Literature), Lokgeet (Folk songs), Etihasik Baate (Historical Legends) that find a place in the University syllabus as reference books. The series have been publishing uninterrupted.

The issues contain articles on history, literature, folk literature and culture. As authenticate version have several genres like Baat, khyat, vachanika, [prosody, lexicography, grammer, interpretation, transcriptions, historical perspective, analytical study of folk literature, criticism, songs, couplets etc. Some issues have been devoted to moern Rajasthani Literature.

Check out for more information on http://chopasnishikshasamiti.org/

Skoda ‘MissionL’ concept at 2011 Frankfurt International Motor Show

Editorial Team — Wed, 14 Sep 2011 04:53:18 +0000

As the world premiere, the Czech-based car manufacturer, SKODA to unveil its new design concept model “MissionL” at 2011 Frankfurt International Motor Show. Close to the series-production design, this concept car reveals the look of the ŠKODA’s new model line that is to become symbolic of the Czech carmaker’s planned “Model Offensive”.

IAA 2011: Skoda 'MissionL' concept

The new compact vehicle “MissionL” will be launched in Europe, Russia, China and India by year end. In line with the internationalisation principles, this compact car will feature specific modifications in each of these regions. All these steps are in line with the goals of ŠKODA’s 2018 growth strategy that were set last year. The brand looks to increase its global annual sales to 1.5 million vehicles by 2018.

This year’s results show that ŠKODA is growing substantially in all relevant areas. The brand’s sales grew by 18.3% year on year over the first eight months of this year, turnover grew by more than 25%, and operating results by 81.5 % in the first half of 2011.

With its new models, ŠKODA continues to grow internationally. The brand set a number of sales records in the first eight months of 2011, including in China, India and Russia. Sales grew by 18.3% year on year over the first eight months of 2011, i.e. 583,600 cars. Sales in China grew by 29.2%, India and Russia grew by 50.4 and 44.0%, respectively. “In line with our growth strategy, we are looking to substantially strengthen our positions in these countries in the years to come,” said Prof. Vahland.

Toyota launches diesel Etios sedan and diesel Liva hatchback

Editorial Team — Sat, 10 Sep 2011 06:28:08 +0000

Toyota Etios diesel

After the success of the Etios and the recent launch of the Etios Liva, Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) launched the diesel variants of its entry-level Etios sedan and Etios Liva hatchback in India on Friday. Etios Diesel is priced between Rs 6.44 lakh – 7.87 lakh. Etios Liva Diesel is priced at 5.54 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi).

Models, Etios sedan and Etios Liva powered by an imported 1.4-litre D-4D Common Rail Diesel engine give an average mileage of 23.59 km per litre, as certified by accredited test agency, said in a press release.

The engine generates maximum power of 68 PS @ 3800 rpm and highest torque of 170 NM @ 1800-2400 rpm.

Toyota’s D-4D technology, the most advanced diesel technology offered by Toyota, used in Innova, Corolla Altis, Fortuner, Prado and LC 200 has earned a reputation the world-over for its high quality, durability and reliability.

The vehicles similar to its petrol variants are being offered in a range of vibrant colours – Symphony silver, Serene Bluish Silver, Celestial Black, Harmony Beige, Vermilion Red, White and Ultramarine Blue (only in Etios Liva). The exteriors and interiors of the petrol variant have been carried over to the diesel variant.

Mr. Hiroshi Nakagawa, Managing Director, TKM said “Etios has been received well by our customers in the petrol segment. We are now offering diesel variant to cater to wider customer choice. The diesel variant will provide our customers fuel economy with high performance. I would like to thank all our customers for their patronage and we look forward to delighting our customers with the ‘Q’ Class Experience.”

Mr. Sandeep Singh, Deputy Managing Director, Marketing, TKM said “We are glad to widen the product range available to our customers. The alternative fuel options are being offered in response to customer feedback, however we would like to educate the customer in order to enable them to make the right choice of fuel, subject to the usage of the vehicle. The customers have accepted the Etios and Etios Liva well, we have more than 33,000 happy customers. We are thankful to our customers for the encouraging response.”

Toyota diesel Etios Liva

Etios sedan is available in GD, GD (SP), VD and VXD grades and Etios Liva hatchback is available in GD and GD(SP) grade.

Etios Sedan Diesel and Etios Liva Diesel features

Exterior

A distinctive front grille with a smile line, sculpted surface and dynamic character-line in the front and rear, enhance the presence of the Etios and Etios Liva. The roof has a unique design for better aerodynamics and clean appearance.

Interior

The two toned ergonomically designed interiors are comfortable and sporty. The Etios and Etios Liva has best-in-class cabin space, large boot space with 595L capacity for Etios and 251L capacity for Etios Liva , a spacious 13L cooled glove box, seven one litre bottle holders, mobile holder and many more such useful storage spaces inside the car.

Safety

The Etios Diesel & Etios liva Dieselhas various active and passive safety features like (i) Energy absorbing body shell (ii) Driver & Passenger Air bags and (iii) ABS with EBD and (iv) Seatbelts.

Mercedes Benz forays into ‘used car’ business in India

Editorial Team — Fri, 02 Jul 2010 15:14:59 +0000

Mercedes Benz

Mercedes-Benz launched its global pre-owned car business, “Proven Exclusivity”, in India, offering Mercedes-Benz certified used cars to customers, said a company release.

The pre-owned cars will be put on sale through the authorized Mercedes-Benz dealerships where the customer will receive additional support in areas such as financing, documentation and delivery.

Mercedes-Benz used cars programme has been in existence since 2009 and operates across 35 countries now. Mercedes-Benz Proven Exclusivity clearly defines global criteria for vehicle evaluation, quality and warranty reinforces commitment towards customer satisfaction.

Dr. Wilfried Aulbur, managing director and CEO of Mercedes-Benz India elaborated: “Comprehensive evaluation and refurbishment criteria, scientific tools for audit and inspection as well as manufacturer backed warranty go into the making of a certified ‘Proven Exclusivity’ vehicle. The dream of owning a Mercedes-Benz thus becomes even more achievable. At the same time customers can also drive in their existing vehicles and drive out with their new Mercedes-Benz cars by utilizing the trade-in route under ‘Proven Exclusivity’”.

Nissan unveils Leaf, zero-emission electric car

admin — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 21:08:48 +0000

Nissan Leaf, Zero emission electric car

Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. unveiled Nissan LEAF, zero-emission car. Designed specifically for a lithium-ion battery-powered chassis, Nissan LEAF is a medium-size hatchback that comfortably seats five adults and has a range of more than 160km (100 miles) to satisfy real-world consumer requirements.

Key features of the LEAF include:

1) Zero-emission power train and platform

2) Affordable pricing

3) Distinctive design

4) Real-world range autonomy – 160km (100 miles)

5) Connected Mobility: Advanced intelligent transportation (IT) system

The “LEAF” name is a significant statement about the car itself. Just as leaves purify the air in nature, so Nissan LEAF purifies mobility by taking emissions out of the driving experience. Pricing details will be announced closer to start of sales in late 2010; however, the company expects the car to be competitively priced in the range of a well-equipped C-segment vehicle. Additionally, Nissan LEAF is expected to qualify for an array of significant local, regional and national tax breaks and incentives in markets around the world.

Nissan LEAF is powered by laminated compact lithium-ion batteries, which generate power output of over 90kW, while its electric motor delivers 80kW/280Nm. This ensures a highly responsive, fun-to-drive experience that is in keeping with what consumers have come to expect from traditional, gasoline-powered automobiles.

Unlike internal-combustion engine (ICE) equipped vehicles, Nissan LEAF’s power train has no tail pipe, and thus no emission of CO2 or other greenhouse gases. A combination of Nissan LEAF’s regenerative braking system and innovative lithium-ion battery packs enables the car to deliver a driving range of more than 160km (100 miles) on one full charge*. (*US LA4 mode)

“Nissan LEAF is a tremendous accomplishment – one in which all Nissan employees can take great pride,” said Nissan President and CEO Carlos Ghosn. “We have been working tirelessly to make this day a reality – the unveiling of a real-world car that has zero – not simply reduced – emissions. It’s the first step in what is sure to be an exciting journey – for people all over the world, for Nissan and for the industry.”

Nissan LEAF’s frontal styling is characterized by a sharp, upright V-shaped design featuring long, up-slanting light-emitting diode (LED) headlights that employ a blue internal reflective design that announces, “This car is special.” But the headlights do more than make a statement. They are also designed to cleverly split and redirect airflow away from the door mirrors, thus reducing wind noise and drag. And, the headlights provide yet one more benefit in that they consume about 50 percent of the electricity of conventional lamps, which helps Nissan LEAF to achieve its world-class range autonomy.

Through bright trim colors inside, Nissan LEAF creates a pleasing and stylish cabin environment. An environmentally friendly “blue earth” color theme originates from the Aqua Globe body color of Nissan LEAF’s introductory model. This theme is carried into the interior through blue dashboard highlights and instrument illumination.

Nissan LEAF employs an exclusive advanced IT system. Connected to a global data center, the system can provide support, information, and entertainment for drivers 24 hours a day.

The dash-mounted monitor displays Nissan LEAF’s remaining power – or “reachable area” – in addition to showing a selection of nearby charging stations.

Another state-of-the-art feature is the ability to use mobile phones to turn on air-conditioning and set charging functions – even when Nissan LEAF is powered down. An on-board remote-controlled timer can also be pre-programmed to recharge batteries.

“The IT system is a critical advantage,” says Tooru ABE, Chief Product Specialist. “We wanted this vehicle to be a partner for the driver and an enhancement for the passengers. We also wanted this vehicle to help create a zero-emission community, and these IT features will help make that possible.”