Get ready to rumble

Nissan appears to be a serious contender in the race to manufacture an electric vehicle.

The Japanese car company recently unveiled LEAF—a “zero-emission” hatchback (pictured) with a reported 100-mile range that likely will go head to head for sales with General Motors Co.’s highly anticipated Chevy Volt.

Neither car has hit the showroom floor, but both are expected to enter the U.S. market late next year.

The cars’ differences in options will make the sales battle interesting. Electric purists will like that the LEAF is an all-electric vehicle. Those who are a little wary of the mileage restriction may prefer the Volt’s backup gas engine.