Released only last year, the Nissan LEAF is powering ahead on the road to a zero-emissions society. Adding spark to keep the model's electric fire going, the Japan Automotive Hall of Fame (JAHFA) recently bestowed not one, but two impressive awards upon the LEAF: "2011-2012 Car of the Year" and "2011-2012 Car Design of the Year."

Each award in the automotive industry is based upon a unique foundation of criteria. When JAHFA put the 100-percent electric LEAF under the magnifying glass, they found courage in developing a mass-market electric, high levels of attractiveness and global recognition as well as an EV-IT system that enhances vehicle usability. All these qualities added up to produce a "Car of the Year" title. When considering contenders for "Car Design of the Year," JAHFA critics noted thoughtful styling, aerodynamics and new-age interior as winning traits.

Though the Japanese auto experts highlighted only a few of the EV model's award-winning features, there are plenty of other elements that we imagine contributed to the decision. Take for instance the remarkable information technology system that operates remotely via a mobile phone and provides Nissan LEAF drivers with ample entertainment. Equally impressive, the model's high-capacity lithium-ion batteries are able to supply power for domestic use when equipped with an inventive car-to-home connectivity system.

If your eco-friendly goals are in line with those of Nissan, be sure to stop by Jenkins Nissan in Lakeland, FL and test drive the LEAF or any of our other fuel-efficient new Nissan models!