Nissan Leaf to Get Midcycle Battery Upgrade

Nissan Motor Co. has increased the energy capacity of the lithium-ion battery in its Leaf all-electric car by 25%, Automotive News reports.

Citing an unnamed source, AN says the upgraded 30-kW battery will extend the Leaf's EPA-estimated driving range nearly 50% from 84 miles to 125 miles. The car's real-world range is expected to be between 105 and 110 miles.

The updated model could hit the streets as early as August as a midcycle replacement, according to the report. The source confirms that Nissan is developing a long-range version of the Leaf capable of traveling 310 miles per charge.

At last week's annual shareholders meeting, CEO Carlos Ghosn said the company would introduce a next-generation electric drivetrain in the "near future." The system would include a lighter, smaller, less expensive battery. The company also showed a prototype Leaf with a simulated range of 310 miles.

Nissan launched the first-generation Leaf in 2010. U.S. sales have plunged 25% to less than 7,800 units through the first five months of the year, AN notes.