Central Hudson is demonstrating a Nissan Leaf as part of a research and development program for electric vehicles. The utility received the car in mid-August to further its commitment in introducing new electric technologies that provide 21st Century “possibilities” for customers.

“The Nissan Leaf is an all-electric vehicle with a range of up to 100 miles on a single charge,” said James P. Laurito, President of Central Hudson.  “Electric cars like the Leaf are ideal for running daily errands around town, local deliveries and even for short-to-moderate commutes. We’re testing and demonstrating this technology as part of our preparations for the anticipated use of plug-in vehicles by local residents and businesses in the years ahead.”

Benefits of plug-in electric vehicles include lower operating costs and lower emissions. “Electricity as a fuel costs less than half that of gasoline, and emissions from electric generation sources are about 70 percent less than those of gasoline engines,” said Laurito. He added that studies show recharging plug-in vehicles would have little impact on the overall electric grid if recharged at night.

“The Nissan Leaf is in production and currently available nationwide. We’re interested in learning how this car performs over the four-season environment here in the Mid-Hudson Valley,” said Laurito. “We plan to share our findings on our website so that our customers may also learn of the car’s performance.”

The Leaf joins Central Hudson’s Chevy Volt and eight hybrid line trucks as part of the utility’s fleet of alternative-fueled vehicles. The utility’s heavy trucks also use a biodiesel fuel blend to reduce emissions.

Central Hudson will display the Nissan Leaf at the utility’s booth at the Dutchess County Fair, in Building C, from Aug. 21 through 26. There, customers will find materials on electric vehicles together with other valuable information on Central Hudson’s programs and services. For more on electric vehicles, log onto www.CentralHudson.com/ElectricVehicles.

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Central Hudson is testing the performance of the Nissan Leaf here in the four-season environment of the Mid-Hudson Valley, and will display the all electric car at the Dutchess County Fair, Building C, from Aug. 21 through 26.