The price reduction is effective immediately, ahead of the launch of the updated model, and brings the price down to £23,490 (with the Plug-In car grant included), or £239 per month with the use of low-rate finance deals.

The move follows similar price reductions in Japan and the US, which along with Europe make up the LEAF’s three main markets.

 ‘There is no doubt that Nissan LEAF is a revolution and existing customers are passionate in their belief that zero-emission mobility is not the future, but is here now,’ said Paul Willcox, senior vice president, Nissan Europe.

‘Nissan’s objective for LEAF has always been to bring zero-emission mobility within reach of the mass-market. Our price reduction underlines that commitment and with no price premium even more motorists will become believers.’

This spring will also see a shift in production to Nissan’s Sunderland plant, which will manufacture the updated model for Europe. This model will offer improved charging times – down by nearly half to around four hours – helping to address another concern that customers have had with the LEAF.

Further changes to the 2012 model include new, energy-efficient heating system and a new drive mode that increases regenerative braking during deceleration.