After many years of contemplation and finding the funding, we are very happy with our second Nissan Leaf. The decision to go for the big battery upgrade was a very good one. On Thursday this week, after picking up the vehicle, we were excited to see how things would turn out, as we were the second vehicle to drive from Windhoek to Swakopmund without charging. Keeping the speed at 95 km/h or below was good advice to reduce the wind drag effect, although it was no problem passing some trucks and driving faster for a bit. On some stretches, I also drove at 100 km/h.
The main concerns were going up the hill after Okahandja and Usakos, with the air conditioning on. I switched off the aircon for a few minutes going up the hills, which did make a difference. After the main ascent, and having driven 286 km, I still had 43% battery capacity left, even with a stiff southwest wind blowing after Arandis.
Knowing that I would make it, I started driving at 120 km/h from the Roessing mountain onwards and made it to Swakopmund with an impressive 393 km driven, 8.4 km/kWh, 16% battery remaining, and an estimated range of 86 km. The ride was smooth and very comfortable, and the car handles very well. I really enjoyed the quality build of all the components as well.
Thank you very much for providing this vehicle to Namibians.
Andreas.