Though its name may evoke Star Wars, the Nissan AT-EV (All Terrain Electric Vehicle) is a tangible reality that has just set a milestone by successfully completing the renowned Mongol Rally. As reported by Nissan USA, the 8,000-mile expedition positions Plug In Adventures as the first team to participate in and finish the rally utilizing an electric vehicle.
The modified 2016 Nissan LEAF driven by Plug In Adventures demonstrates that eco-friendly vehicles can endure rugged conditions without relying on fossil fuels. The team consists of Chris and Julie Ramsey, who began their journey at Goodwood on July 16 and navigated through 13 countries, ultimately reaching the finish line at the Siberian border in Ulan-Ude, Russia, on September 9.
Throughout the rally, the Ramseys spent just £100 (approximately $132) to charge their EV, using charging stations 111 times. The vehicle averaged a range of 95 miles per charge, even reaching up to 115 miles at one point before needing to recharge.
In the first half of the journey, the extensive charging networks in various European nations made it easy for the AT-EV drivers to find charging stations, taking advantage of fast-charging ports that enabled them to recharge the car in 30 minutes. However, during their route through Eastern Europe, the Ramseys encountered difficulties, often having to charge their vehicle at locations such as hotels, fire stations, and car dealerships to maintain power for the LEAF.
As part of their adventure, Plug In Adventures attended events like the Astana International Exposition in Kazakhstan, showcasing alternative energy sources by briefly displaying the AT-EV. The rally course also offered the team the chance to drive on some of the world’s most scenic roads, including Romania’s Transfăgărășan Highway.
Despite the challenging conditions, the couple praised the reliability of their rally car, which sustained a cracked wheel, a punctured tire, and a missing mudflap during the adventure.
The successful completion of the Mongol Rally by Plug In Adventures highlights the growing dependability and range of electric vehicles, presenting a noteworthy example for skeptics to reconsider their viewpoints on zero-emission transportation.
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