How do the vehicles stack up?

While the retail price of the two vehicles will be enough to persuade or deter many customers from being among the first to drive a mass produced electric car, there are other factors to be taken into account. Here is how each vehicle stacks up over some key criteria:

Vital statistics of the Mitsubishi i-MiEV:

• Zero CO2 exhaust emissions.
• Top speed: 81 mph.
• Range: 80 miles (EU combined mode, estimated).
• Charging time: Seven hours with a 220V system.
• Seating capacity: Four adults, plus luggage.
• Kerb weight: 1,105kg.
• Dimensions: 3,475 (l) x 1,475 (w) x 1,610 (h).

Vital statistics of the Nissan LEAF:

• Zero CO2 exhaust emissions.
• Top speed: 90mph.
• Range: 100 miles (based on an urban driving cycle).
• Charging time: Eight hours with a 220V system.
• Seating capacity: Four adults, plus luggage.
• Kerb weight: 1,545kg.
• Dimensions: 4,445 (l) x 1,770 (w) x 1,550 (h).

The Nissan LEAF has the slight edge in terms of range and performance capabilities, but the statistics are close enough to suggest that the initial price tag may be the key in swinging consumers one way or the other.