The LEAF's sudden surge comes from its low price tag. At $28,140, it's now the cheapest electric car you can buy in the US. This became especially true after the Chevy Bolt, which started at $26,500 for the 2023 model year, left the market.
Even though newer models have taken some of its shine, the LEAF's affordability keeps it popular. In the first quarter of 2024, Nissan sold 1,142 LEAFs. Sales went up to 1,925 in the second quarter. Now, with the latest jump, LEAF's total sales for 2024 so far have reached 7,581 units.
The LEAF offers a maximum range of 212 miles and comes with a partial federal tax credit of $3,750. Nissan's newer electric SUV, the Ariya, starts at $39,590 and can go up to 304 miles on a single charge. The Ariya sold 5,552 units in Q3 and has reached 14,897 sales so far this year. Many see it as a big step up from the LEAF, with a more powerful drive system and a CCS1 charging port.
Low-priced electric cars are becoming more common globally. In China, for example, you can get a BYD Seagull for under $10,000. In the US, cars like the upcoming Chevy Equinox EV and Volvo EX30, both expected to cost around $35,000, will likely take some customers away from the LEAF.
Nissan wants to get back on top in the EV market. They plan to launch a new version of the LEAF next year. It will look more like a small SUV, similar to the Ariya. Nissan showed a preview of this design with their Chill Out concept in 2021.
Source: Electrek
