NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Aug. 28, 2024 – Nissan has approved an enhanced bidirectional charger for use with Nissan LEAF. As the first mass-produced bidirectional-enabled electric vehicle, the Nissan LEAF is the only fully electric passenger vehicle in the U.S. able to supply energy to the grid.[1]

The next-generation Fermata Energy FE-20 bidirectional charger received the required UL and CHAdeMO standards approval, passed key Nissan requirements and is approved for use with the Nissan LEAF. The FE-20 charger can charge a Nissan LEAF’s battery or can send energy stored in the parked vehicle back to a building or power grid to help offset peak energy demand, potentially helping save money with the electric utility.[1]

In a proof-of-concept trial of Fermata Energy’s bidirectional Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) technology at Nissan Americas Headquarters in Franklin, Tennessee, the FE-20’s predecessor, the FE-15, helped reduce electricity bills by more than $9,450 over four years – or nearly $2,000 annually on average.

Given the positive results of the FE-15 trial, it is anticipated the next-generation Fermata Energy FE-20 bidirectional charger and latest generation Fermata Energy intelligent V2X software platform will build on its earlier success with these enhancements:  

·       33% more power

·       UL 1741-SA certification

·       Support of IEEE 2030.5 for Common Smart Inverter Profile (CSIP) operation per California Rule 21

·       Optimized design resulting in faster, less expensive manufacturing

·       Lower retail cost

These enhancements will help support improved access to Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) technology for Nissan dealers and Nissan fleet customers aiming to help them optimize their energy usage and potentially reduce charging and utility usage costs.

“The FE-20 is the latest generation Fermata Energy bidirectional charger and advanced, intelligent V2X software bringing enhanced technology and features that optimize the full bidirectional charger capabilities of Nissan LEAF,” said Kent O’Hara, president of Nissan’s 4R battery business. “In 2013, Nissan LEAF became the first fully bidirectional-capable electric vehicle launched in the U.S. with a proven track record in the advanced area of Vehicle-Grid Integration (VGI). The FE-20 offers valuable energy cost reduction capability to Nissan LEAF fleet customers.”

Use of the Fermata Energy FE-20 charger and V2X software platform does not impact the vehicle’s warranty.

Fermata Energy’s V2X software platform monitors a building’s electrical usage and can elect to draw power from the Nissan LEAF’s battery during high-demand, high-cost periods; in certain states, parked Nissan LEAF vehicles compatible with bidirectional charging (model year 2013 and later) may send energy stored in the battery to the electrical grid during high-demand times.1

There are currently over 30 proven V2G installations in the U.S. using Fermata Energy chargers and V2X software platform and Nissan LEAF vehicles, aimed at helping fleets and dealerships optimize their energy usage and reduce costs.

More information on the Fermata Energy FE-20 is available at fermataenergy.com

For more information about our products, services and commitment to sustainable mobility, visit nissanusa.com. You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X (Twitter) and LinkedIn and see all our latest videos on YouTube.

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Nissan Media Contacts:

Jeff Wandell

Manager, Nissan EVs, SUVs & Truck Communications

Jeff.Wandell@nissan-usa.com

Zoe Pennington 

Senior Specialist, Nissan Sedans and Sports Car Communications

Zoe.Pennington@nissan-usa.com

Fermata Energy Media Contact:

media@fermataenergy.com 

[1] The ability to sell or send energy back to the grid may vary based on location and is referenced for informational purposes only. This information does not constitute legal advice. All persons considering selling or sending energy back to the grid should consult with their own legal professional to determine availability of services, eligibility, cost, if any, and further details. The ability to sell or send energy back to the grid is not within Nissan’s control and is subject to change without notice. Interested parties should confirm the accuracy of the information before relying on it to make a purchase. [Residency restrictions may apply].