The Venucia e30 is being sold as part of its joint venture with Chinese manufacturer Dongfeng, and the range starts at 26,800 Yuan (around £26,900), offering running costs said to be one seventh the size of petrol models sold in the country.

Under subtle styling changes, the e30 functions like a normal LEAF, including normal and rapid charge capability, and the car is eligible for the Chinese government’s tax exemption. Sales are underway in nine cities, but the model will be available nationwide from next year.

Jun Seki, President of Dongfeng Motor Co, said: ‘With Nissan Global's advanced technology, sales experience and know-how of electric vehicle, the Venucia e30 has been locally developed through our careful studies about market situations and consumer needs in China.

‘I am looking forward to seeing the Venucia e30 lead China's electric-vehicle market into the future and also to more development of new energy vehicles and the wide adoption of electric vehicles in China.’