Manchester, England – Owners of Nissan Leaf electric cars in the UK have expressed frustration and disappointment after the car manufacturer announced its app would cease to function for older models due to the upcoming shutdown of the 2G network. This move has left many customers feeling abandoned by Nissan, with some accusing the company of neglecting its early adopters.
The NissanConnect EV app, which allows for remote control of functions like heating, will be discontinued on April 1, 2024, affecting approximately 3,000 Nissan Leaf and e-NV200 vehicles made before 2016. While Nissan cites the 2G technology sunset as the reason for the app’s termination, drivers are upset by the sudden loss of this key feature without sufficient notice or alternative solutions.
Max Siegieda, a Nissan Leaf owner since 2013, shared his surprise and disappointment at the abrupt discontinuation of the app, highlighting the convenience and functionality it provided for him. Similarly, David Morris, who owns a 2014 Nissan Leaf, expressed his dissatisfaction with the lack of long-term support from the manufacturer, questioning his future loyalty to the brand.
Experts predict that as the electric vehicle market continues to expand, more drivers may face similar challenges with outdated software and technology. Dr. Benjamin Gorman from Bournemouth University criticized Nissan’s lack of backward compatibility in their older models, emphasizing the importance of future-proofing vehicles in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.
While some industry professionals acknowledge the inevitable obsolescence of software in modern cars, others, like Sam Sheehan from car firm Cinch, suggest that newer models are likely to have more longevity in terms of tech functionality. However, the overall trend towards hardware-as-a-service and subscription-based features in the automotive industry may pose challenges for future vehicle owners seeking long-term usability and convenience.
As the debate over planned obsolescence and evolving technology in electric vehicles continues, drivers are left to navigate the changing landscape of automotive innovation and connectivity. The case of the Nissan Leaf app shutdown serves as a reminder of the importance of staying informed and adaptable in an increasingly digitized world of transportation.