Charging an electric vehicle can be a challenge without a garage, but one woman has come up with a creative solution for her 2013 Nissan Leaf. Crystal Bright, who recently moved to a townhouse, demonstrates in a TikTok video how she manages to keep her car powered up using an unconventional method.
Nissan Leaf Charging Solution
In the video, Bright shows herself feeding a long extension cord out of her bedroom window, explaining, “This is how I charge my car from my bedroom.” With the parking lot not directly in front of her home, she had to innovate. The video captures her as she drags the 100-foot extension cable, purchased for $200, from her bedroom, down the front of her townhouse, and across the sidewalk to her parked Nissan Leaf.
The 2013 Nissan Leaf, known for its 75-mile range, can be charged via a standard outlet, a point Bright emphasizes as she connects the cable to her car’s charging port, showcasing the blinking green light that indicates successful power transfer.
Neighborly Cooperation
Despite potential inconveniences, only one neighbor has to cross the cable, and they are reportedly fine with it. Bright shares, “Only one unit has to cross it, and they’re cool with it,” as she films her walk back to the car. She mentions that she has used this method before, highlighting her previous experience living on the third floor of an apartment building.
Charging Risks and Considerations
However, not everyone is convinced of the safety of using an extension cord for EV charging. Some commenters raised concerns about potential liability if someone trips over the cord, while others advised against it due to fire hazards. According to Kelley Blue Book, automakers do not recommend this practice, as EVs require more electricity than typical home appliances, potentially leading to slower charging speeds and safety risks.
Pod-Point echoes this sentiment, advising the use of designated home chargers to avoid such hazards and ensure faster charging times.
Apartment Charging Solutions
For those in similar living situations, Apartment Guide suggests the possibility of using a heavy-duty extension cord but cautions about gaining permission from neighbors and management. Encouraging building owners to install EV chargers could enhance property value and attract eco-conscious tenants. Government incentives, such as those in Michigan, offer financial assistance for such upgrades.
Original Story at www.motor1.com