Weighing 14.4 kilograms (32 pounds), the mobile generator utilizes two modules from a first-generation Leaf and is priced at $1,170 (170,500 yen) in Japan. Information about its energy capacity has yet to be disclosed, and its availability for international markets remains uncertain.
The device appears to feature two high-output ports, two USB-A, and two USB-C connectors, along with a 12V outlet and what could be a solar charging input.
JVCKenwood has confirmed that a preliminary version of this consumer energy generator was launched in April 2022, with rapid development efforts underway to transition the prototype into a mass-produced product.
A new first-generation Nissan Leaf battery module had a capacity of 64 amp-hours (Ah), suggesting that the portable device, which utilizes two such modules, could theoretically offer a total capacity of 128 Ah. This translates to 28,160 watt-hours (or 28.1 kilowatt-hours) at a nominal voltage of 220V or 14,080 Wh (14 kWh) at a voltage of 110V. To put it in simpler terms, an appliance that consumes 1 kW of power at 110V would exhaust the battery in approximately 14 hours.
Given that these are recycled battery packs, the actual capacity may fall below 64 Ah, resulting in a quicker depletion rate. Nevertheless, it's noteworthy that aged EV batteries, instead of ending up as waste, can continue to serve in other devices for additional years.
Back in 2019, Nissan revealed that the lifespan of Leaf EV batteries could extend up to 12 years beyond the car's average 10-year life expectancy. This indicates that these high-voltage batteries could have an estimated operational life of 22 years, whether in the original vehicle or in other consumer electronics.
As per Nissan, more than 650,000 Leaf models have been sold globally since its introduction in 2010.
Source: Associated Press
