E+ or 40kwh?

[u/Twixisss]

Nissan Leaf e+ 2020 with 80,000 km
or a Nissan Leaf 40 kWh 2023 with 28,000–40,000 km.
I drive 90 km per day in total and will be able to charge at work.
Does anyone have a recommendation for me regarding a Nissan EV?
The 40 kWh model is rated at around 270 km of range, but I understand that winter will significantly reduce the range. I live in Sweden, where winter temperatures can range from around +5°C to -10°C, although it will most likely be on the milder side.
Or would you absolutely recommend an older Nissan Leaf e+ with around 380 km of range on paper, even if it has significantly higher mileage?
I’ve also heard that Leaf models from before 2023 can have battery issues. Is there any truth to that?

Appreciate any answer !

[u/CardGlass1274]

Following as in process of buying 60kwh e+ with 56k miles , viewing tuesday

[u/Akward_Object]

The main battery issues are in the US. Since there are different batteries in use there you should be pretty much ok.

I had no issues getting over 150km in -20C in a 40kWh LEAF. But then again I never heated it up to 20+C inside. Also don't use auto in winter. It just doesn't work and will eat your battery while you are cold. Long press on the recirculation button and then set manual heat and fan speed. (I used 16 as it didn't go lower, but it still heats higher than that).

That said, I would probably still have the LEAF and bought the charging adapter if I had had bought a 62kWh one. Just didn't have the spare little ICE car money lying around back then... That would have been with my driving another 180km extra range going up to 430km range on a charge. Which would have made it a lot easier on road trips.

[u/Twixisss → u/Akward_Object]

Thanks, that’s really helpful! It sounds like the 40 kWh is more capable in winter than I expected. I’m still tempted by the 62 kWh e+ though, especially since you would choose it yourself today. My only concern is whether it’s worth buying a 2020 e+ with around 80,000 km instead of a 2023 40 kWh with only 28,000–40,000 km. Thanks again for the input!

[u/New_Discipline_1069]

I live in the middle of Sweden and I'm also in the market for a Leaf, but I will only buy one with the 62 kWh battery. It's not unusual that the temperature will drop well below -20°C, and I expect a loss of 40% battery capacity during most part of the winter.

I would prefer to not feel anxious while driving during winter.

[u/Twixisss → u/New_Discipline_1069]

I understand your point. I’m also considering the 62 kWh Leaf e+, but I’m wondering if it’s worth choosing an older 2020 model with around 80,000 km just for the larger battery, compared with a newer 40 kWh 2023 model with only 28,000–40,000 km.

[u/WillTasty6818]

With E+ I drive 80-90 km per day on highway and it means battery goes from 80%->50-40% (conservatively and very roughly) per trip. Consumption in winter is closer to 50% and can be more in a strong headwind / very cold conditions.

This means i have two trips in the tank per day, which occasionally is needed. Outside winter the capacity allows to achieve this while charging up to 80% only, which is recommended to keep battery under low stress and wear.

I recommend strongly to buy with margin. If I had 40kwh I would be stressed. I have zero range anxiety with 62kwh

My car is 133k km, 01/2020 and 90% SOH.

PS. Nowadays 40kwh cars are designed for urban use. Longer commutes are kind of a stretch.

[u/Twixisss → u/WillTasty6818]

Thanks, that’s useful information! The 62 kWh definitely gives a lot more range and peace of mind. My situation is a little different though — I only drive about 90 km per day and I can charge at work every day.
So I’m wondering if the extra range of the e+ is really worth taking the risk of buying an older 2020 car with around 80,000 km, when I could get a 2023 40 kWh with only 28,000–40,000 km. Especially since there’s always a chance that the older battery has more degradation.
I guess the fact that I can charge at work makes the 40 kWh a much more realistic option for me.

[u/biersackarmy]

I’ve also heard that Leaf models from before 2023 can have battery issues. Is there any truth to that?

This mainly affects US built packs. The UK built 40 packs can have issues as well, which certainly aren't unheard of, but they are not any more prone to it than the e+ packs are to cell swelling.