Just hit 8000 miles and thought I'd give you guys an update.
So far, the LEAF is performing very well, although it's not without it's quirks.
Over 8,000 miles, I've been averaging $40/month in electricity. That's about $280 total for 8000 miles.
To drive that in my old car at 20 mpg and about $3.50/gallon for the gas, I would've been looking at around $1400. So, total savings so far is just over $1100... give or take a few bucks.
At this rate, presuming gas prices don't rise, I'll have saved over $15,000 in 10 years just on fuel. That's... significant, and the savings will just compound as gas prices rise. 10 years is when the batteries go out from warranty, so I'll have to make a decision then.
The car averaged about 4.7 miles/kwh in the summer time when the temperature was over 60F. Range dropped to about 3.2 miles/kwh as the temperature dropped consistently between 30 and 40F. That's reduced my reliable range from between 90 to 110 miles on a charge down to between 65 and 80 miles. Still plenty for me, but I know that would be a problem for many.
Another little thing is that the stock wiper blades were junk. In the Seattle area, we get plenty of rain, and the blades were failing me within just a few months. Not a big deal, but irritating. I expect at least a year out of my wiper blades.
The car itself is fun to drive, but frankly, the insecurity and rudeness of other drivers is getting old. I am routinely crowded on the freeway by pickups and SUVs. I get an occasional finger from a guy in a muscle car. Always guys. As I said, I chalk it up to insecurity and guilt. I mean, why do I care what you're driving unless it makes me feel bad about what I'm driving? Ultimately, it's just lame.
Not intended to be a political post. Just information. Bottom line, I still pinch myself when I think about how much money I'm NOT spending on gas.
