Nissan to launch Australia’s largest EV network

The all-new Nissan LEAF has begun rolling into what will become Australia's largest network of electric vehicle outlets.

The second-generation LEAF hatchback will be available from almost all of Nissan Australia's 89 dealerships nationally, each of which will offer sales, servicing and advice, officials confirmed this week.

“We are proud to have Australia’s largest EV dealer network,” said Nissan Australia managing director Stephen Lester.

“We are fast approaching 89 Nissan dealers nationally who are trained and ready to discuss EV and charging options, facilitate a test drive and help customers as they look to purchase a new EV.”

The LEAF launches in Australia with a $49,990 (before on-road costs) price tag, a figure that puts it up with premium hatch offerings including the Mercedes-Benz A-Class – not typical Japanese rivals.

Despite this, Nissan clearly envisages growing demand for EVs Down Under, and has developed a big dealer network early to take advantage of that. Nissan plans to slowly broaden its EV model line-up to other products including SUVs.

“Consumers love the power of being able to sample, investigate and discuss in order to better understand and buy new technology,” Lester explained. "The extensive footprint of EV trained and ready Nissan dealers means that this is an easily accessible option for most Australians.

“As we start deliveries of the new Nissan LEAF this week, we are providing a highly informed and trained as well as convenient solution for Australians to research and buy a new EV at nearly 89 Nissan dealers nationally.”

Last month, Lester admitted true mass acceptance of electrified vehicles – both EVs and hybrids – would first require the involvement of the freshly re-elected Morrison Liberal-National coalition government.

“In the absence of government direction any change within society is almost impossible to get over … because they are supposed to represent the people,” he said.

“We need government to stand up and take a stance to support that change through a variety of measures that can be developed — some of which have already been proposed.”