Nissan Leaf owners now have access to a new, higher-power bidirectional charger option that allows for using their electric vehicles as mobile energy sources. This charger, known as the 20-kw Fermata Energy FE-20, has been recently approved by Nissan for use with the Leaf EV. In this article, we will explore the benefits of this new bidirectional charger, along with other relevant details for Nissan Leaf owners interested in this technology.
The Approval of the FE-20 Bidirectional Charger
Nissan Leaf models have had the hardware for bidirectional charging since 2013, but it wasn’t until 2022 that Nissan officially enabled the use of this feature in the U.S. with the approval of the Fermata FE-15 charger. The approval of the FE-20 now provides Leaf owners with an updated option that offers 33% more power than its predecessor. Additionally, using the FE-20 charger does not void the vehicle’s warranty, which is an important consideration for many EV owners.
Benefits of the FE-20 Bidirectional Charger
The FE-20 charger not only offers more power but also features an updated design that helps lower manufacturing costs. While Nissan did not disclose the specific retail price of the FE-20, the automaker promises a greater ability to transfer energy between the car and the grid, leading to potential cost savings for owners. In a proof-of-concept test conducted at Nissan’s headquarters in Tennessee, the FE-15 charger helped reduce electricity bills by $9,450 over four years, showcasing the potential benefits of bidirectional charging technology.
Comparing the FE-20 Charger to Other Options
Although there are other bidirectional chargers available on the market, using them with a Nissan Leaf requires approval from the automaker. The FE-20 charger underwent testing to ensure it met Nissan’s requirements and received UL 1741 certification, paving the way for its official approval for use with the Leaf. This charger provides an additional advantage for Nissan Leaf owners, who may already be attracted to the vehicle due to its affordability compared to other electric cars.
Current Landscape for Nissan Leaf Owners
The Nissan Leaf has not received any significant updates in recent years, and it remains the only EV still using the CHAdeMO fast-charging standard. While it no longer qualifies for the federal EV tax credit, the Leaf continues to be a cost-effective option for buyers, particularly when compared to traditional gasoline-powered vehicles. With the introduction of the FE-20 bidirectional charger, Nissan is providing Leaf owners with another reason to consider this model, as it offers additional functionality and potential savings.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the approval of the FE-20 bidirectional charger for use with the Nissan Leaf represents a significant advancement in the EV market. This new charger provides Leaf owners with increased power, improved efficiency, and the ability to save money on electricity bills through bidirectional charging technology. As the automotive industry continues to evolve, innovations like the FE-20 demonstrate Nissan’s commitment to providing sustainable and practical solutions for electric vehicle owners.