Nissan Leaf Faces Production Reductions Before Customers Have a Chance to Purchase | Carscoops

      Battery supply challenges are already impacting the introduction of what could become one of the most affordable new EVs in the US market.

      17 hours ago

      by Brad Anderson

      Nissan plans to reduce Leaf production due to slower-than-expected battery supply.

      The new Leaf utilizes the same CMF-EV platform as the larger Ariya.

      The base model is priced at $29,990 and provides 174 hp and 254 lb-ft from the front motor.

      The all-new Nissan Leaf is entering the market with great expectations. For Nissan, this vehicle is envisioned as a way to regain its standing in the electric vehicle sector, but its launch has encountered some setbacks. Production will be decreased from September through November as the company struggles with delays in obtaining enough battery packs to maintain assembly line operations.

      Read: Nissan Takes A Leaf From The Z For Its Mass Market EV

      Currently, Nissan is manufacturing the new Leaf at its factory in Tochigi, Japan, but significant cuts are planned for next month and throughout October, leading to a considerably lower output.

      Battery Shortage

      As reported by Nikkei Asia, the Leaf's batteries are sourced from AESC, but production yields have not increased as quickly as expected. This shortfall could start to affect showroom availability if the situation persists, which is a concerning start for a vehicle of such importance.

      The Leaf is built on the same CMF-EV platform as the larger Ariya. The entry-level version available in the US features a 52 kWh battery pack that powers a single electric motor on the front wheels, generating 174 hp and 254 lb-ft (345 Nm) of torque.

      Nissan will also offer a version of the Leaf with a larger 75 kWh battery, paired with an electric motor that produces 214 hp and 262 lb-ft (355 Nm). The 75 kWh variant is reported to have a driving range of 303 miles or 488 km.

      Pricing and Availability

      Beyond the US, the new Leaf is also set to launch in Japan and Europe, with additional markets anticipated to follow. One of the most critical aspects determining its success will be its starting price.

      Nissan recently announced that prices for the 2026 Leaf will begin at $29,990, making it the most affordable EV available in the country, and representing only a modest increase over the decade-old model it replaces. Interestingly, there are plans for an even more economical version, though pricing details for it have yet to be disclosed.