The HondaLink EV application will allow the user to remotely view the state of charge, initiate charging, and activate the air conditioning and heater to pre-condition the vehicle while connected to the grid to maximize battery range on start-up.

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Through CARWINGS, Nissan LEAF drivers are able to use mobile smart phones to turn on air conditioning and set charging functions remotely, even when the vehicle is powered down.

ENGADGET: Nissan starts US production of 2013 Leaf, vows faster charging and a lower entry price

It may seem like missing the original point, but is it any different from a Range Rover, with its roots in a vehicle designed to cross deserts or mountains, sporting a leather interior, air-conditioning and chrome wheels?

WSJ: This Sporting Life

However, that distance depends largely on factors such as vehicle speed, number of passengers, ambient temperature and use of accessories like heating and air conditioning.

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