-
Want to remove ads? Register an account and login to see fewer ads, and become a Supporting Member to remove almost all ads.
Nissan Leaf
- Thread starter efusco
- Start date
-thumb-425x283.jpg/bmi_orig_img/leafengine%20(2)-thumb-425x283.jpg)
JRP3
Hyperactive Member
Right, but a DC/DC converter, which they must have to keep the 12V battery charged from the pack, can also directly power 12V accessories from the pack without a 12V battery at all, or with a much smaller one.
stopcrazypp
Well-Known Member
You know that's a good question. Perhaps it acts as a higher current buffer. Al&Eds had to add a lead acid battery to Dr. T's 2008 Roadster in order to support the sound system they added. Bob Sexton had told me that the peek current draw was going to be more than the Roadster's accessory system was rated.
Perhaps it's just easier/cheaper in some way. The Rav4 and Ford Ranger EVs (I think) also had a lead acid under the hood (EV1 too?). That optional solar rear spoiler offered on the Leaf probably just charges that 12V battery.
At least maybe Leaf drivers can offer a jump start to their ICE neighbors. I accidentally left my lights on one rainy day and was trying to figure out how to safely get a jump start from my friend's Prius. After spending some time with the manual, I figured it was easier to just push start my car.
Last edited:
Re the Tesla battery... according to Dustin (Tesla tech) who is visiting today, there's an motorcycle battery under the right headlamp, which is used as a backup for the 12V auxiliary power system. The backup is there in case you lose 12V power, in which case your headlights would go out!
Yes the I believe 2008's had a lot of battery balance issues with the 12v because it was only off some of the sheets. When owners would run just 12V accessories like car-off radio-on it would create an imbalance (I think). Installing the little motorcycle battery gave the sheets a rest.
As for jumping a Prius, the battery is located (buried) in the back but there is a way to do it from the front as well:
Last edited by a moderator:
EVNow
Well-Known Member
Nissan Leaf's Job #1 (i.e. making of first production vehicle) was yesterday.
http://www.ustream.tv/channel/nissa...book.com&utm_source=4143475&utm_medium=social
Here is the video of Leaf getting manufactured ... interesting to see their assembly line.
http://www.nissan-global.com/EN/NIS...ion.html?bcpid=71366262001&bclid=618634630001
http://www.ustream.tv/channel/nissa...book.com&utm_source=4143475&utm_medium=social
Here is the video of Leaf getting manufactured ... interesting to see their assembly line.
http://www.nissan-global.com/EN/NIS...ion.html?bcpid=71366262001&bclid=618634630001
Jaff
Active Member
Thanks for posting this EV...really interesting to see the assembly line at work (especially installing the battery)!
tomsax
Member
Wow! That video is very impressive.
It gives me a new perspective on what Tesla needs to do to compete with the big automakers. Developing the expertise required to build that sort of automation must take years, if not decades. Maybe they don't need to be that advanced to make Model S, but they will for Blue Star.
I wonder how the Nissan production process compares to GM's production of the Volt. I'm guessing Nissan's is more advance as they are targeting 200,000 worldwide by 2012 and GM is only talking about 10,000 to 30,000 per year through 2012, perhaps even lower than Model S production.
It gives me a new perspective on what Tesla needs to do to compete with the big automakers. Developing the expertise required to build that sort of automation must take years, if not decades. Maybe they don't need to be that advanced to make Model S, but they will for Blue Star.
I wonder how the Nissan production process compares to GM's production of the Volt. I'm guessing Nissan's is more advance as they are targeting 200,000 worldwide by 2012 and GM is only talking about 10,000 to 30,000 per year through 2012, perhaps even lower than Model S production.
EVNow
Well-Known Member
What was really impressive is their "flexible" manufacturing. In the video you can see Juke, Cube & Leaf all getting made on the same assembly line. Infact, in any random sequence.
stopcrazypp
Well-Known Member
First full range test of the Leaf: 116 miles
http://www.plugincars.com/nissan-leaf-116-mile-range.html
http://www.plugincars.com/nissan-leaf-116-mile-range.html
116 miles is very nice, easily managing my routine needs and then some. It tempts me to make the Leaf a placeholder until the Model S arrives. I will have to remain strong with my plan to walk my commute until that time.
It seems to me that the Volt and Leaf are going to be the principal actors in the next round.
Not having researched the Volt and Leaf as much as most of you, I'd summarize my thoughts as this: I prefer the exterior appearance of the Volt, but I prefer everything else about the Leaf. Having driven an electric car, I wouldn't be happy with an ICE being under the hood, even if it were "off" some or most of the time.
I very much look forward to seeing these on the road!
It seems to me that the Volt and Leaf are going to be the principal actors in the next round.
Not having researched the Volt and Leaf as much as most of you, I'd summarize my thoughts as this: I prefer the exterior appearance of the Volt, but I prefer everything else about the Leaf. Having driven an electric car, I wouldn't be happy with an ICE being under the hood, even if it were "off" some or most of the time.
I very much look forward to seeing these on the road!
I keep trying to like it. There are some things about it which are attractive. But those darn bug-eye headlights...
People have said they want their EV to be distinctive and recognizable as different, but...
JRP3
Hyperactive Member
Funny how some people just hate it, I don't mind it at all.
Completely different market segment. There are a lot more people who can shell out $25K or less for a Leaf than whatever Tesla will be selling the S for.
Similar threads
- Article
