Solarexec,
"My wife put it simply: “this does not have the creature comforts you would expect of a $35,000+ car.”
The Leaf is not a $35,000 car. It is a $17,000 Versa, with $18,000 worth of electronics...mostly battery.
I am amazed that anyone would consider buying an EV, and compare it to an ICE vehicle. That is like complaining that the moon lander didn't have a stewardess.
I have wanted an EV for 35 years, for many reasons. My buddy in NY state ordered his in May...he'll end up waiting one and a half to two years. I fooled around until July. With luck, I won't have to wait much more than a year. Am I disappointed in Nissan's incompetence, and obfuscation? Absolutely! But they are the only corporation to offer a practical EV so far.
The Leaf is not the EV I want...too big...too many seats...not aerodynamic enough. However, it is the only EV I can afford....and that is after the tax credit!
I will be leasing for three years. At that point, either batteries will have improved, and many more EV options will be available, or Americans will once again have turn their backs on the future.
Warren