2 Years In A Nissan LEAF, What Will Be Next?

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I am coming close to the 2-year mark of my travels in the light footprint of zero-emissions Nissan LEAF. It has me thinking of what changes I may make in my personal transportation (if any) in the future. An abundance of ideas come to mind.

Initially, I was thinking of an electric bicycle. It would save money. A woman I talk to on a regular basis rides hers 12 miles each way to get to work. She looks fit, satisfied, and bicycle inspired.

I am not so sure that is going to happen, though — we have torrential rains that regularly flood streets in this tiny piece of subtropical Florida. It would be hard to be prompt and dependable with work. To carry some of the supplies I use for work (large supplies) even on a cargo bicycle would be a stretch.

Furthermore, the bicycle paths in my city are not designed like Amsterdam, Copenhagen. The lack of bicycle infrastructure supporting safe bicycling to most parts of the city is a major drawback.

So, I think I still need a car … so I still need an electric car.

I am attached to the quiet ambiance and the spacious, roomy feel of the LEAF. I have also thought of a used BMW i3 — if prices dropped enough. The LEAF at this point remains more appealing to me anyway due to the roomier back seat.

Our friend Sara was glowing with her choice of a used LEAF. Hmm…

Overall, finding a good deal on a used Nissan LEAF is a primary consideration.

The other idea, which will not save me money, is a Tesla Model 3. The Model 3 is just peeking out at us, and I am looking forward to reading reviews on CleanTechnica. Pocketbook notwithstanding, it is probably the Model 3 that appeals to me the most. I could travel long distances — out of state even — in the Model 3. I could possibly avoid all forms of gas — even planes — with a longer-range Model 3. Yes. Yes. Yes.

For some time, I broke the complicit binds of the gas culture by primarily bicycling. I felt better emotionally. But it was not a sustainable option for me. When I leased the Nissan LEAF, my shoulders dropped again and the guilt of being a dependent — gas-dependent — pollution consumer fell away.

Unplugged from participating in air pollution for the first time, I thought of all the children, pedestrians, and bicyclists I was not offending with particulates. I found hope that most anyone can do this if they want to — at least some of the time. I hope this daydream lasts and becomes manifest.

A Model 3 most appeals to my sense of journey. It makes my trips (to visit kids and grandkids) longer than on a plane — yet, again, fresher. I hope to keep participating in a fresher tomorrow for my most dear grandchildren.

Leasing a new LEAF again…? No. I will buy a used EV if I cannot afford a Tesla Model 3. Which one? Hard to say — the personalities vary and each of their appeal. Do I want a simple urban EV, a Smart EV? Maybe so. In some European cities (such as Rome), it seems there are Smart cars everywhere you look. Small, easily parked, economic, ecological, and maybe cheaper.

A Twizy might be utilitarian and useful — and save money. Alas, they are not to be found in the United States.

Ultimately, I am with most CleanTechnica.com readers — interested in the Model 3.

An EV is simple, as simple as plugging in a cell phone. To drive an EV is technologically superior to an ICE car. To go backward to a polluting gas car would seem like returning to the mid-1900s (and air pollution) from the lighter footprints of the 21st century. That’s certainly not an option.

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Cynthia Shahan

Cynthia Shahan, started writing after previously doing research and publishing work on natural birth practices. Words can be used improperly depending on the culture you are in. (Several unrelated publications) She has a degree in Education, Anthropology, Creative Writing, and was tutored in Art as a young child thanks to her father the Doctor. Pronouns: She/Her

Cynthia Shahan has 947 posts and counting. See all posts by Cynthia Shahan