As anticipation builds for its next-gen electric car, Nissan is officially retiring its iconic LEAF in another key sales market. Although LEAF production is ending at its Sunderland plant, customers can still buy up the last few models while they last.
Nissan is closing a big chapter as it prepares its next wave of all-electric vehicles. Launched in 2010 as the first mass-market EV, Nissan’s LEAF was viewed as a pioneer.
First sold in Japan, Europe, and the US, the LEAF has landed in around 60 markets globally. Over the past decade, the electric car has received several updates, but they have not been enough to reverse falling sales.
Nissan LEAF sales fell by double-digits in Japan (-21%), the US (-40%), and Europe (-35%) last year. The trend is no different through the first five months of 2024.
After ending LEAF production in the UK earlier this year, Nissan is retiring the compact EV in another overseas market: Australia.
Although Nissan LEAF production has ended in the UK, a Nissan Australia spokesperson told CarExpert: “Australian and New Zealand customers are still able to place their orders until vehicle stocks run out.”
Nissan is retiring the LEAF in the Australian market
The spokesperson added that Nissan Australia had “secured strong stock” for customers. However, it’s unclear how many models are actually left.
Nissan is launching the Ariya electric SUV in Australia, but no official launch has been set. The LEAF is still being built in Tennessee for North America (until 2025) and Japan for domestic customers, but Nissan Australia has not revealed plans to import from either location.
The move comes with Nissan’s next-gen LEAF due out soon. Nissan looks to shake things up with the new LEAF.
According to Nissan, the EV is previewed in its Chill Out concept, revealed in 2021. The new LEAF will be a crossover coupe SUV. It will be sportier and more compact than the upcoming Qashqai and Juke EVs. One source said it looked like a “mini Ariya” as Nissan looks to revamp the iconic LEAF name.
Nissan is investing up to $3.8 billion (£3 billion) to produce next-gen EVs at its Sunderland plant, including the LEAF, Qashqai, and Juke.
Starting at $28,140, the Nissan LEAF is still one of the most affordable EVs on the US market. If you’re looking to scoop one up while it’s still here, you can use our link to find deals on the Nissan LEAF in your area.