The updated Nissan Leaf

The new Nissan Leaf (electric) has been revealed with a makeover and a longer range, to make it more desirable to consumers. The updated version of the leaf model has a range boost of 109 to 124 miles. Production of this five door model and the batteries that power it will be starting at the Sunderland factory this coming June, alongside Nissan's excisting Japanese Plant.

This extended range is said to be down to a number of factors, such as a brand new aerodynamic grille. There is also a reduce in friction for the internals and a more efficient energy and battery management system along with a more efficient heating system and a B setting on the transmission, which will increase the amount of regenerative braking. 

The Chassis of the Leaf has been updated by Nissan apparently to make the car a more enjoyable and fun drive. The dampers have been tweaked, supposedly for a more plante feet, the steering has also been given more weight. The brakes are said to be made more progressive also. 

A brand new optional quick charger for the Leaf is also said to reduce the full charging time of the car from eight hours to four, if you use a 32 amp supply, rather than the original 13 amp. 

The model now comes in Visia, which will be cheaper than the outgoing car £23,490 and have 16 inch steel wheels, halogen headlights and black mirror caps. The Acenta which is said to be rather similar in price than the outgoing car, with 16 inch alloys, tinted back windows and body coloured mirror caps. Then the top spec Tekna which looks to be more expensive than the outgoing car, comes with LED headlights, 17 inch alloys, a brand new around view monitor and a bose stereo. 

The charging system for the Leaf has also been moved from the boot to under the car bonnet, this allowes 40 litres extra load space in the boot, totalling 370 litres. An LED light on the charging point also allows for an easier plug in, whilst the sat-nav system has been said to be a lot clearer aswell.