Camping gets a recharge with second-life Nissan EV batteries

Smart camping using second-life EV batteries could become a more widespread holiday experience,  if a new concept created by Nissan Energy is anything to go by.

Using old electric car battery cells from first-generation Nissan Leafs that have been renovated and packed in a portable, weather-proof pack, holiday makers can make use of 700Wh of power that could potentially supply up to a week’s worth of power.

The concept, which has been created by Nissan’s vehicle-to-grid initiative launched last year and Opus Campers UK, integrates the Nissan Energy ROAM power pack into the front compartment of an Opus camper trailer to provide completely silent, zero emissions energy.

Power is supplied through both a 230v and 12v circuit, with an output of up to 1kW of power (the 12v circuit does so through recharging the on-board “leisure” battery).

On display at the The Caravan, Camping and Motorhome Show in Birmingham, UK, this week, managing director of Nissan Energy Francisco Carranza says it’s a practical example of how electric car batteries that have outlived their original life powering transport can live on.

“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,” he said in a statement to the press.

“Our customers already have the ability to take control of their energy use at home through Nissan’s residential storage solutions.

“Now we can give them complete independence to experience ‘off-grid’ adventures. The new Nissan Energy ROAM can deliver clean, sustainable power to the most remote of locations, and be enjoyed by everyone.”

Jonathan Harrison, managing director of Opus Campers UK says the second-life EV battery integration is a solution that meets people’s desire to get out in the country with a robust and sustainable energy supply.

“OPUS owners really love getting out into the wild and enjoying the more remote corners of the countryside,” he said in a statement.

“At the moment, to go ‘off-grid’ for any lengthy period, you either turn to a fossil-fuel generator – which isn’t good for air quality or a peaceful camping ambience – or you compromise on the power you can use with existing battery solutions.”

The Driven also contacted Opus Campers Australia, who have told us that they are looking to offer a similar setup for Australian customers however there is not a timeline in place at this time – stay tuned and we will let you know as soon as we know more!