We Shouldn’t Mourn The Bargain-Basement LEAF S - CleanTechnica

The article discusses Nissan’s decision to indefinitely delay the entry-level “S” trim of the 2026 LEAF electric vehicle, a move that initially sparked concern about the loss of affordable EV options. While affordable EVs remain important, the author argues that the market and consumer expectations have evolved significantly since earlier days of EV adoption. In 2026, simply offering a lower price is not enough; EVs must meet higher standards for range and charging speed to be practical for most drivers beyond dense urban areas. Specifically, the LEAF S’s 52 kWh battery and estimated 210-mile range fall short for many real-world scenarios, especially at highway speeds, in adverse weather, or with battery degradation, reducing effective range to around 140-160 miles. Additionally, its charging speed would be capped at about 100 kW, slower than other affordable EVs and the higher LEAF trims, resulting in longer charging stops that could frustrate drivers. The article highlights that the LEAF