NISSAN has launched a five-point pledge aimed at attracting more drivers to its LEAF electric car - and reassuring existing owners.

Called the Nissan CARE-EV LEAF customer commitment, the scheme follows feedback from the Japanese brand's customers.

The plan is to dramatically improve the ownership experience of a LEAF model and it makes five pledges designed to provide reassurance and peace of mind.

It also answers many of the questions customers face when considering electric vehicle ownership for the first time.

As part of the scheme, LEAF customers may rapid charge their vehicle for free at 60 Nissan dealerships across the country

They can also charge at the 50 or more locations equipped with rapid charging units installed by Nissan as part of Ecotricity's Electric Highway, allowing the LEAF to charge from empty to 80 per cent in 30 minutes.

And LEAF owners who need an extra car for a special occasion can borrow a petrol or diesel Nissan model free of charge for up to two weeks provided they cover the fuel and insurance.

In addition, guaranteed 24-hour test drives will allow potential customers to experience the LEAF and see if it fits their lifestyle.

The plan also provides free pan-European roadside assistance should a LEAF run out of power on the road and there's also a health guarantee covering against lithium-ion battery capacity loss below nine bars (out of 12) within the first five years or 60,000 miles.

Nissan GB chief Jim Wright said: "By making firm promises across five key areas we are tackling head on some of the questions we hear from potential customers when considering electric cars for the first time.

"These commitments deliver unprecedented levels of support to customers and make the LEAF a practical, desirable and affordable reality for many more motorists.

"The pledge to offer LEAF owners a free diesel or petrol Nissan for up to 14 days a year is particularly revolutionary. It means drivers can enjoy the many benefits of LEAF ownership, such as running costs of just two pence per mile, on their normal daily commute and then, when they're going on holiday or have a longer trip to make, borrow a car that's more appropriate to their journey."

The Nissan LEAF is available in three trim grades and costs from £15,990 for an entry level Visia model after receipt of the Government's £5,000 plug-in grant.