The latest version of the iconic Nissan Leaf has been approved for the UK government's full Electric Car Grant, providing a significant discount of £3,750 for buyers and delivering a major boost to manufacturing in the North East.
Grant Details and Market Impact
This decision, announced by the Department for Transport (DfT), places the new Leaf in Band One of the grant scheme, reducing its price to £32,249. The Leaf joins the Ford Puma Gen-E, E-Tourneo Courier, and the Citroen e-C5 Aircross Long Range as the first models to receive the maximum discount. A further 35 electric vehicles that do not fully meet the government's green criteria qualify for a smaller £1,500 discount in Band Two.
The DfT also indicated that Vauxhall is next in line to have a model receive the full £3,750 grant, though the specific model was not confirmed. Industry speculation suggests it will be the long-range version of the Vauxhall Grandland.
A Boost for British Manufacturing and Jobs
The inclusion of the Leaf is particularly significant as the car will be built at Nissan's Sunderland plant, supporting thousands of jobs in the region. This move reinforces the government's commitment to strengthening the UK's electric vehicle ecosystem.
Since the grant was relaunched in July, over 35,000 drivers have already used it to purchase a new EV. The government anticipates sales of eligible models will surge by 118 per cent, reflecting the powerful effect of the financial incentive. October alone saw electric car market share jump by almost 30% compared to the same month last year.
Government and Industry Reaction
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander welcomed the news, stating: "Nissan helped pioneer early EV ownership through the original Leaf, so it is great to see them join our drive to make going electric cheaper and more accessible for families." She emphasised that the move supports regional jobs and industry growth.
James Taylor, Managing Director of Nissan GB, expressed delight, saying: "We're absolutely delighted to be able to confirm Leaf's pricing at £32,249 including the electric car grant... Best of all, it's proudly built right here in the UK!"
The grant is part of a broader government strategy, which includes a £381 million investment through the Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (LEVI) programme to expand charging networks, particularly outside London. An additional £25 million is being allocated to simplify and reduce the cost of home charger installations, especially for homes without driveways and for renters.
