When Nissan unveiled the 2018 Leaf many people where surprised the model would have a 40 kWh lithium-ion battery that provides an EPA-estimated range of just 150 miles (241 km).
The decision to use such a small battery enabled the automaker to price the model at $29,990 before incentives but it seemed like an odd choice considering its key rivals offer a significantly longer range. In particular, the entry-level Tesla Model 3 can travel up to 220 miles (354 km) on a single charge while the Chevrolet Bolt can go 238 miles (383 km).
Nissan will correct this shortcoming next year when the automaker will introduce an option for a 60 kWh battery pack. The company didn’t say much about the model but Nissan’s Executive Vice President of global sales and marketing reportedly told Forbes contributor Bertel Schmitt the car will have a range in excess of 225 miles (360 km).
That would make the car’s range competitive with the Bolt and Model 3 but the bigger question is now the model’s cost. Tesla’s entry-level model starts at $35,000 while the Bolt retails for $37,495. If Nissan can manage to undercut both these competitors, the Leaf could be in a good position to sway a number of buyers.
H/T to Inside EVs
Photo Gallery
