A revolution in EV driving: 2016 LEAF 30 kWh delivers 250 km range

• 26% increase in LEAF driving range - up to 250 km* on a single charge
• Another first as Nissan introduces 30kWh battery technology to the sector
• Significant battery updates improve performance
• Longer range headlines 2016MY update that further extends Nissan's lead over rivals
• New NissanConnect EV infotainment system with greater functionality; off-board telematics for remote operations
• Exterior design update with revised details and new colour option

Nissan is once again transforming the performance, practicality and perception of EVs with the introduction of the LEAF 30 kWh - an updated Nissan LEAF that gives drivers 250 km of motoring range, beating all of its competitors in the segment.

This remarkable achievement - one that opens up a new world of opportunity for drivers - is made possible thanks to the introduction of a new 30kWh battery. fThe new battery is the highlight of an update package that will see the 2016MY LEAF 30 kWh reinforce its position as the most capable and practical electric vehicle in the world, and with the best value. Introduced alongside a raft of design, technology and engineering updates, the longer range significantly broadens the LEAF's appeal - making it a true alternative to an internal combustion engine vehicle for millions of motorists and reinforcing its position as the world's best electric car. 

Commented Paul Willcox, Chairman, Nissan Europe: "The LEAF, the best-selling EV in the world, just got even better. An up-to 250 km range opens the world of EV to thousands of drivers across Europe who before just weren't completely confident that an EV would work for them. This extra range will make LEAF ownership an easy first choice, for many, many more drivers."

New battery, new technology, same simple usability

The LEAF's new 30kWh battery delivers a longer range with no compromise on internal packaging. Available on Acenta and Tekna trim grades, it has exactly the same exterior dimensions as existing 24kWh unit and only a modest 21 kg increase in weight. The result? A car that goes significantly further while offering the same practicality and usability as previous versions.

Key to the new battery's higher performance is an update to its internal design and chemistry. The introduction of a high capacity cathode improves performance, while the change to the cell layout also contributes to the gain. Indeed, Nissan is so confident about the performance and reliability of the new battery that the capacity of the new 30kWh battery will be covered by an eight year, 160,000 km warranty. 

Recharging the LEAF's new 30kWh battery is as easy and stress-free as it is with the current 24kWh unit. Just as with the current LEAF, customers will be able to recharge from their homes, from public chargers, or from the network of Quick Chargers (3 phase, 400V) rapidly expanding across European - the best EV network available. Quick charging time remains at just 30 minutes to charge the LEAF from 0-80% - exactly the same period of time it takes the 24 kWh battery to achieve the same level of charge.

New IT technology gives owners even greater control

One of the LEAF's most celebrated and useful features is its ability to interact with and be controlled remotely by its owner via NissanConnect EV. From being able to check charge status to pre-heating the cabin on a cold winters days, owners across the world have used this advanced smartphone-enabled telematics facility to make life even easier. NissanConnect EV not only brings greater comfort but also improves driving range, thanks to the ability to pre-heat or pre-cool the cabin without using battery energy.

The LEAF 30 kWh introduces a significant update to this unique technology with a new NissanConnect EV system that replaces the previous Carwings setup. It retains all the acclaimed elements of the original system, but adds new features a much-simplified activation process and a new design.

One of the many advances of the new NissanConnect EV system is the new charging map that is capable of showing which charging points are available and which are being used.

Designed to offer seamless integration with the new-generation NissanConnect EV infotainment system, it also features a completely revised navigation system, maintenance alerts and a car-finder facility. 

LEAF 30 kWh - the world's favourite EV made even better

All Acenta and Tekna 2016MY LEAF models are equipped with the latest evolution of the brand's acclaimed NissanConnect EV infotainment system. Featuring a new interface and digital radio receiver, it also offers a capacitive 7-inch touchscreen that allows owners to zoom in and out of maps and flick between menus just by moving their fingers on the screen.

The LEAF 30 kWh also introduces a number of subtle exterior design changes - including a new roof-mounted aerial along with the availability of a new colour - Bronze.

Production of the LEAF 30 kWh will continue at Nissan's Sunderland UK factory, with European sales starting in January 2016.