2016 Nissan LEAF delivers extended range

Nissan has released details for its updated 2016 LEAF hatchback. The all-electric family car receives a new, larger battery that increases the official travel range to 155 miles.

Nissan has revealed an updated version of its LEAF all-electric hatchback, with its official driving range increased by 25 per cent to 155 miles in total.

This extra mileage is offered by a new 30kW battery, which will go on sale alongside the established 24kW battery.

The 30kW battery is available on Acenta and Tekna trim versions of the Nissan LEAF, meaning the standard Visia trim only offers the 24kW battery.

Although the new battery is heavier than the established 24kW unit, it achieves greater travel range thanks to an update to its internal design - including the introduction of carbon, nitrogen and magnesium to the electrodes.

As a sign of confidence from Nissan towards its new 30kW battery, LEAF models with this will be covered by an eight year, 100,000 mile warranty.

As well as receiving a new battery, Acenta and Tekna trim versions of the LEAF for the 2016 model year also add the NissanConnect infotainment system with a seven-inch touchscreen. This gadget supports DAB radio, sat-nav and air con control and allows the user to check the charge status of the LEAF.

The map on the infotainment system also includes a charging map, which shows where charging points are available and which are currently in use. Maintenance alerts and a car-finder facility also come as part of this gadget.

Sales for the updated Nissan LEAF range will start in the UK from this December. Pricing, when taking the Government’s £5,000 Plug-in Car Grant into account, starts at £20,790 for the 24kWh Visia, while the 30kW LEAF starts from at least £24,490.