Nissan’s famous electric hatchback has taken on a new role; helping the next generation learn how to drive and in the process becomes the UK’s only fully electric driving school car.
Ask Driving School ‘s Paul Tomlin has taken delivery of a new Nissan LEAF, which he will use to help teach his pupils to drive.
Stoke-on-Trent-based Tomlin, who has been a driving instructor for 14 years, wanted a more environmentally friendly car for his next ride. After a successful test drive of the LEAF from local dealer Holdcroft Nissan Hanley he immediately placed an order to become the UK’s first EV driving instructor.
Tomlin is happy to avoid petrol stations and the time incurred filling up, citing a £2,800 cost saving per year over his previous car. He will use a 50 amp public charger during lunch break which will give him enough range to do a few lessons in the morning and a couple more in the afternoon.
He expects to cover approximately 25,000 miles a year instructing learner drivers and will run the LEAF for 18 months before replacing again.
The dual-controlled LEAF has been a hit with pupils who have praised how easy it is to drive and how smooth and effortless the driving experience is. With no gear changes to worry about, the LEAF is effortless to drive.
Tomlin’s first pupil had previously failed her practical test twice before choosing to take further lessons in the LEAF. The pupil subsequently passed her driving test in the LEAF with zero minors, praising the LEAF’s ability to keep her nerves calm.
Tomlin said: “Since I took delivery of the Nissan LEAF there has been lots of interest from my fellow instructors and it’s easy to see why. The pupils love the car and the immediate success they have had underlines what an easy car the LEAF is to drive. For me personally I’m happy to now avoid the petrol stations and I feel happier for the environment by driving a zero emissions vehicle.”
David Dillon, Holdcroft Nissan Hanley dealer principal said: “We’re happy to see the LEAF become the first electric driving instructor vehicle and thrilled for the pupils successfully passing in the car. With the pass success Paul has already enjoyed with a 100% electric car, many young learners future first driving experience could well be in a LEAF.”
Faye has been writing about cars and environmental issues since 2007. A suspected eco-warrior working on the corporate inside, Faye mainly likes the weird, quirky vehicles that show a distinct environmental advantage. Her ideal car has enough room to fit a bale of hay in the boot. When not working, she likes nothing better than to head out on her bicycle and explore the countryside.
Faye Sunderland
February 04, 2013
Filed under: Nissan
Honpon1982
The electric car is easy to handle and safe. And it also safe for nature and it is Eco friendly. If driving school start learning by the electric car than consume less power and also in cheap cost.
March 13, 2013