2016 Nissan Leaf gets 30kWh battery and longer range
Nissan has launched the 2016 Leaf with a 30kWh battery, increasing its range to 155 miles and offering the upgrade on Acenta and Tekna trims in the UK.
Nissan has officially revealed the 2016 Leaf, introducing a significant update with a new 30kWh battery pack. This upgrade aims to extend the appeal of the Leaf as the company prepares for a future new generation. The 2016 model brings an improved electric driving range, maintaining the Leaf’s practicality and usability while addressing customer demand for longer range in electric vehicles.
Introduction of the 2016 Nissan Leaf
Battery Upgrade and Technical Details
The most notable change for the 2016 Leaf is the introduction of a 30kWh lithium-ion battery, available on the Acenta and Tekna trim levels. This new battery increases the Leaf’s claimed driving range by approximately 25 percent, allowing it to travel up to 155 miles (250km) on a single charge. The previous 24kWh battery remains available on lower trims, but the new 30kWh pack is intended to keep the Leaf competitive in the growing electric vehicle market.
Despite the increase in capacity, the physical size of the battery remains unchanged, ensuring that the Leaf’s interior space and practicality are unaffected. The new battery weighs 21kg more than the 24kWh version. Nissan has used electrodes containing carbon, magnesium, and nitrogen to enhance the battery’s performance and durability. The battery is supported by an 8-year or 100,000-mile warranty, reflecting Nissan’s confidence in its longevity and reliability. It is also compatible with rapid charging systems, so owners can continue to use existing charging infrastructure without any changes.
Range and Practicality
The 2016 Leaf’s range improvement is a key selling point. With the new 30kWh battery, the car can travel up to 155 miles on a full charge, compared to the previous 124 miles with the 24kWh battery. This increase of 31 miles is significant for drivers who rely on their electric vehicle for daily commuting or longer journeys. The unchanged battery size means that the Leaf’s cabin space and boot capacity remain the same, which is important for buyers seeking a practical family car.
Pricing and Availability
In the UK, the 2016 Nissan Leaf with the 30kWh battery is priced from £24,490 for the Acenta trim. The battery upgrade is only available on the Acenta and Tekna models, with the entry-level Visia retaining the 24kWh pack. UK sales are scheduled to begin in December 2015. The Leaf remains positioned amongst other compact electric vehicles, providing an alternative to models such as the Chevrolet Volt and Ford Focus Electric.
Battery Technology and Warranty
The new battery’s design not only boosts range but also incorporates advanced materials in the electrodes for improved efficiency. The 8-year or 100,000-mile warranty offers reassurance to buyers concerned about long-term battery health. Rapid charging compatibility ensures that charging times remain competitive with other electric vehicles on the market.
Market Context and Competition
By increasing the Leaf’s range, Nissan aims to address one of the main concerns for potential electric car buyers: range anxiety. The improved battery technology and extended warranty are designed to keep the Leaf relevant as new competitors enter the market. The Leaf’s combination of range, practicality, and established reputation continues to make it a strong contender in the compact electric car segment.
Summary of 2016 Nissan Leaf Changes
- 30kWh battery available on Acenta and Tekna trims
- Claimed range increases to 155 miles (250km)
- No change to vehicle dimensions or interior space
- Battery weighs 21kg more than previous version
- 8-year/100,000-mile battery warranty
- Rapid charging compatibility retained
- UK pricing from £24,490; sales start December 2015
