RV Fuel Issues & Prices - Post 'Em Here!
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Forum Discussion
pianotuna wrote:
Hi smk,
How does the air conditioning impact the range on a Leaf?
I estimate between 5% and 10% depending on speed and heat.
And the air works very well since compressor operates at optimum speed at all times. It actually throttles back the compressor speed as less cooling is needed rather than having a clutch to only have on or off. A separate inverter pulls power direct off the 400vdc battery so there is no loss of performance while driving as is very typical of small cars. Just loss of range.
It will cool the car quite well just sitting and that always seems to be a challenge for gasoline cars. With an internet or phone app you can precool the car. You can also have a regular timer to pre cool or heat the car. This is especially good if you are plugged in. You could set a timer to fully warm and deice the car so it is ready to roll for the morning commute. A pre heated or pre cooled car can then use most energy for driving.
It is not for everyone in every situation but it really works well for what it is. Rumor is the soon to be US built version will have a better battery and range for 2013. Hopefully a lower MSRP.
