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Nissan trims Leaf output after battery supply issues
Nissan has scaled back production of the all-new 2026 Leaf at its Tochigi (Kaminokawa) plant for the period from September through November 2025, according to reporting by Nikkei Asia. The cut reportedly reduces output to less than half of the originally planned volume, with especially steep reductions in September and October. Multiple Nissan sources cited by the business daily say the move is down to difficulties securing battery packs for the zero-emission crossover.
The batteries destined for the Japan- and U.S.-market Leaf come from AESC, the Yokohama-based cell and pack supplier in which Nissan retains a minority stake. The majority owner is Shanghai-based Envision Energy, a company focused on renewable-energy technologies. Regardless of ownership, constrained cell or pack deliveries are already affecting production planning and will likely slow initial Leaf deliveries and retail availability.
Why this matters for Nissan and the EV market
The Leaf was one of the first mainstream battery-electric vehicles, launching in 2010 and undergoing significant updates with a generational change introduced in 2018. The 2026 model is intended to reinvigorate Nissan’s EV lineup, so an early supply hiccup carries both commercial and reputational consequences. Nissan has been implementing cost-control measures amid ongoing financial pressures; a slowdown in Leaf sales could further complicate the automaker’s recovery plans.
Production of the 2026 Leaf is not limited to Japan: the model is also assembled in Sunderland, United Kingdom, where Leaf production has taken place since March 2013. That geographic diversity may help offset some regional shortfalls, but battery pack constraints from AESC remain the single biggest limiting factor.
2026 Leaf: key specs and trim lineup
The redesigned Leaf rides on a shortened version of the Ariya platform and adopts a fully independent multi-link rear suspension (a notable upgrade from earlier torsion-beam setups). Nissan claims a roughly 66 percent increase in lateral stiffness for the rear structure, which should translate to improved handling and ride comfort.
Highlights of the 2026 Leaf:
- Battery: 75-kWh pack
- Range: up to 303 miles (488 km) WLTP/advertised on the S+ trim
- Drivetrain: front-wheel drive only, vehicle-to-load capability available
- Power: 174 hp (base S+), 214 hp (SV+ and Platinum+)
- Charging connector: NACS port
Trim and equipment spread (U.S. pricing as announced):
- S+ — $29,990: aero-covered 18-inch steel wheels, dual 12.3-inch displays, ProPILOT Assist
- SV+ — $34,230: 18-inch aluminum wheels, dual 14.3-inch displays, built-in Google apps
- Platinum+ — $38,990: 19-inch aluminum wheels, Bose Personal Plus 10-speaker audio, dimming panoramic roof
What buyers should expect
The S+ grade, with its aerodynamic wheel covers and lower rolling resistance, is the advertised longest-range variant. Higher trims trade a little range for larger wheels and additional tech and comfort features. All trims emphasize modern infotainment and driver-assistance tech, with ProPILOT Assist and integrated Google services on mid- and upper-level models.
"Battery supply is the gating factor right now," an industry observer summarized, noting that pack shortages have ripple effects along production schedules, dealer stock, and delivery times.
Market context and outlook
Battery supply constraints have become a recurring theme across the automotive industry as demand for EVs accelerates. For Nissan, the situation highlights the strategic importance of secure cell and pack capacity. While the Sunderland plant and global logistics can help smooth supply imbalances, short-term sales and deliveries for the 2026 Leaf will depend on AESC’s ability to meet contractual volumes.
For potential buyers, the Leaf remains an attractive value proposition on paper: competitive starting price, modern interior tech, EV range suitable for most daily use, and vehicle-to-load capability. For the market, the production cut is a reminder that well-executed supply chains are as important as product design when launching a new electric model.
Key takeaways:
- Nissan has reduced Leaf output at Tochigi Sept–Nov 2025 due to battery pack shortages.
- AESC supplies Leaf packs; majority-owned by Envision Energy, with Nissan holding a minority stake.
- 2026 Leaf features a 75-kWh battery, up to 303 miles range (S+), multi-link rear suspension, FWD only.
- Initial availability and dealer stocks may be limited until battery supply stabilizes.
Overall, the 2026 Leaf arrives with meaningful technical upgrades and competitive pricing, but early production limits are likely to shape availability and sales momentum in the months after launch.
Source: autoevolution
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