Dick Scott Nissan

No one can deny that Nissan is growing in popularity here in the United States. But how are they doing in the rest of the world? Quite well as it turns out, actually. Nissan sales in Europe have just jumped an impressive 35%, year-over-year, during the first four months of 2011. Furthermore, Nissan's market share in Europe reached a record high during the month of April.

It is easy to see that, aside from the Sunderland-built JUKE crossover, which has sold nearly 60,000 units since its launch in Europe last September, Nissan's lineup is quite different in…

The Nissan Leaf EV was recently awarded one of automotive's most coveted awards - The 2011 World Car of the Year. This honor not only marks a great achievement by Nissan, but also promotes electric vehicles to the top of the global market.

Jurors from Asia, Europe and North America commented that, "The Leaf is the gateway to a brave new electric world from Nissan." Highlighting the car's low carbon properties, judges added it "feels just like a normal car, only quieter".

"Such accolades could give motorists more confidence that electric vehicles are a valid alternative to conventional cars…