Range remains a real problem for potential buyers.
A Swiss company involved in energy storage and electric grid load leveling management is showing a mobile charging system for electric cars, which it claims is a world first. The so-called “NationMobile Angel Car” (sic) can be used for charging batteries of stranded electric vehicles.
Range anxieties among potential buyers – as well as the lack of a recharging infrastructure which contributes to these worries – are among the impediments to making EVs more than the limited production, technical curiosities that they are today.
Forty percent of consumers report they are likely to test drive an electric vehicle, according to a recent study of U.S. adults. However, overall awareness of EVs remains low. Even those who follow EV developments and news reports remain concerned about batteries – the Achilles heel of what remain very expensive vehicles.
“For a new product category, interest in electric vehicles is strong and likely to grow as more vehicles enter the market and consumers become more aware of them,” said Chris Ely, manager of industry analysis, for the Consumer Electronics Association, the publisher of the study.
“Manufacturers, dealers and other sellers will need to emphasize mileage and battery-related specifications when promoting and The study, Electric Vehicles: The Future of Driving, affirms that electric vehicles tempt consumers with improved environmental quality and potential cost savings, but serious questions remain about battery life and convenience of battery charging. selling electric vehicles,” Ely concluded.
This should come as no surprise to people knowledgeable about the ongoing efforts of automakers to reduce the cost of battery packs, which can range from $10,000 to $20,000 per EV – or the price of a new gasoline-powered economy car from the same makers such as Chevrolet and Nissan, arguably the two companies most committed to popularizing EVs. (Click here for Battery Life, Charging Worry Potential EV Buyers)
While there is little new technology behind the Nation-E mobile charger, it might help with range issues since it can be installed on any service truck or on a dedicated “Angel Car.”
A 230-volt charger in 15 minutes can give a dead EV battery pack 3o km of range.
The demo unit is equipped with a 230-volt charger that is said to be capable of charging a dead EV battery pack in 15 minutes with 2 to 3 kWh of “fuel,” enabling in theory up to 30km of additional range.
Nation-E says its battery management system analyzes the EV’s battery and determines the quantity and intensity of energy that could be “fast-charged” into the stranded vehicle. A touch screen enables the controlled flow of energy.
Nation-E’s mobile exhibit is currently traveling throughout Europe, visiting a variety of exhibitions and shows. The road show will continue on an international scale, visiting Israel, the United States and other unspecified countries. More details at www.Nation-E.com.