The battery from the second-generation Nissan Leaf might be retrofitted into the first-generation mannequin, offering a major improve. With double the capability, the older Leaf EV can obtain over 200 miles on a full cost. This modification is possible for any residence mechanic.
The primary-generation Nissan Leaf was a pioneering electrical automotive that appealed to the mainstream. It supplied an affordable driving vary for city use and was comparatively simple to keep up. Nevertheless, as the primary fashions at the moment are round 15 years previous, battery degradation has change into a significant concern as a result of lack of liquid cooling within the authentic battery pack.
Moreover, the unique Leaf’s most battery capability was simply 30 kilowatt-hours, limiting its vary. Fortunately, the second-generation Leaf’s bigger battery presents an answer to remodel the first-gen Leaf into a contemporary, long-range electrical car.
What’s notably interesting about this retrofit is that it may be carried out at residence. A YouTuber often known as Battery Man accomplished your complete course of with minimal gear—simply hydraulic jacks, jack stands, and primary instruments—with out the necessity for knowledgeable storage setup.
Remarkably, he completed the job in simply three hours, not together with some additional welding and portray work, which continues to be fairly spectacular.
To double the vary of an older Leaf, you will want a 62 kWh battery from a second-generation mannequin. Regardless of being designed for a unique automotive, this battery suits nicely within the first-gen Leaf. Some metallic brackets have to be fabricated, which entails slicing and drilling metal sq. tubes, together with extending two different brackets with the assistance of a welder.
Extra elements required embody a brand new pyro fuse, rear springs, bolts, an OBD reader, and a $10 CAN bridge. This bridge tips the automotive’s digital system into recognizing the brand new battery because the previous one.
The method does contain some software program coding for the CAN bridge, however there’s ample documentation accessible, making it accessible for anybody with primary mechanical expertise.
Initially, the first-gen Nissan Leaf with a 30 kWh battery had an EPA vary of 107 miles. With the upgraded 62 kWh battery from the second technology, the vary elevated considerably, displaying 228 miles after a full cost.
This improve will not be solely spectacular but additionally inexpensive. A used Leaf can sometimes be bought for round $4,000, whereas a second-generation 62 kWh battery ranges from $5,000 to $10,000. In case you’re lucky, you may discover a good battery from a salvaged car for even much less.
This retrofitting development could characterize the way forward for residence mechanics. For years, automotive lovers have swapped engines and transmissions; now it’s time to present electrical car batteries the identical consideration.
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