Paris-based nurse, Sylvie Lailler was the 10,000th customer and will be driving the Nissan LEAF on visits to elderly patients and using it with her family at the weekends. She picked up her Nissan LEAF from the Mantes-la-Jolie dealership near Paris, near where she lives.

Nissan Europe’s director of electric vehicle, Jean-Pierre Diernaz, said: ‘This is an important moment for electric cars in Europe and comes at a time where we are seeing a sales momentum building for the Nissan LEAF across the region. In March we sold over 1000 LEAF, which was the best month since the car was launched, and in April we were the second best selling car overall in Norway."

He added: ‘We are seeing a shift in attitudes to electric mobility, with more people buying electric cars and the infrastructure developing at an ever increasing rate. We have hit this landmark just as we prepare to introduce the new European-manufactured Nissan LEAF with over 100 improvements into the market.’

Commenting on her purchase, Mrs Lailler said: ‘I purchased the car because of the low running costs really make sense for my work. I needed a proper family car and I wanted a zero-emission vehicle to replace my diesel hatchback. The Nissan LEAF was the best choice. My family were reluctant to get an electric vehicle, but after the test drive my husband told me he wanted it to drive to work; he will not get the keys from me easily though!’

The new Nissan LEAF, which is being built in the UK, will go on sale across Europe next month with over 100 changes and upgrades following customer feedback.