EV batteries given second lease of life
Nissan has teamed up with UKbased company Opus Campers to create a ‘‘smart camping’’ concept that uses old batteries from electric vehicles – Nissan uses the term ‘‘second-life’’ – to power it, delivering up to a week’s worth of remote power for ‘‘off-grid adventures.’’
The Nissan x Opus concept integrates the recently unveiled Nissan Energy Roam portable, allin-one, weatherproof power pack. With a storage capacity of 700Wh and a power output of 1kW, the Roam’s lithium-ion cells are recovered from first-generation Nissan electric vehicles, ensuring a sustainable second-life for the batteries.
The Roam unit is mounted in a special compartment at the front of the Opus trailer and provides a power supply to both the 230v circuit and the 12v circuit (via recharging of the on-board ‘‘leisure battery’’ which powers the 12v system). Nissan says it provides enough power for around seven days of camping, albeit with assistance from a solar panel accessory, and allows campers to remain connected and enjoy the comforts of home, while having the freedom to travel to remote areas.
Additionally, the Nissan Energy Roam is compact enough that it can be removed from the camper and recharged away from the campsite via a standard 230v domestic socket, or by plugging into a solar panel accessory.
‘‘Nissan’s leadership in energy services means we are not only transforming the way people drive, but also the way we live,’’ said Nissan Energy managing director Francisco Carranza.
‘‘The Nissan x Opus concept is a real-world example of how Nissan Energy Roam can integrate into our lifestyles – in this case the hugely popular leisure activity of camping.’’
Designed for both professional and leisure use, Nissan Energy says the Roam offers ‘‘a clean, sustainable solution for customers needing electricity on the go’’.
It will launch in European markets later this year.