The US battery manufacturer A123 Systems Inc. has developed lithium-ion cells that it says could eliminate the need for costly cooling systems in electric cars.
The Nanophosphate EXT cell chemistry is said to be more stable than previous versions of lithium-ion systems. If the battery does what A123 Systems claims, it could affect the electric car market, because cooling systems add significant cost to electric vehicle battery packs.
"With this chemistry, it's possible to reduce or completely eliminate the cooling system, depending on the vehicle," Andy Chu, vice president of marketing and communications for A123 Systems, told us. "In a hybrid with a high-power battery, you might only reduce the size of the thermal management system. But with an electric vehicle, which doesn't generate as much heat, it's possible to eliminate the thermal management altogether."
A123 Systems says its Nanophosphate EXT chemistry could be employed in large prismatic cells, like those used in electric cars, and in smaller cylindrical batteries. (Source: A123 Systems)
Chu said the Nanophosphate EXT also offers the opportunity for automakers to boost a vehicle's battery life by a factor of two or even three. "Either you get the life benefits or you reduce the size of the thermal management system."
A123 says the new battery cell offers those advantages because its chemistry is more stable than the company's earlier version, known simply as Nanophosphate. In addition to the improved chemistry, A123's engineers used new components -- electrode and separator materials -- to bring about the change. The chemistry will be applicable to large-style prismatic cells, such as those used in electric cars and hybrids, as well as smaller cylindrical cells. The batteries are expected to reach the market in 2013.
Mydesign, only in the last few months have there been charging stations becoming available in the US and few EV's are available here so not so different than here. We have a very long way to go.
I've built, driven EV's for 15 yrs. mostly as my only transport and rarely had a problem finding a plug to charge from and even offering to pay, rarely had too. Most were quite happy to help. Afterall every outlet in the world is a potential charge point. Can't say that for gasoline/diesel.
And one can always carry a very small generator for unlimited range from fuel at far better mileage than any similar gas/diesel can because EV drive is 3-7x's as eff and the gen runs at max eff vs a car motors making a total of 7% eff!!
Jerry, am a non us citizen and am staying in a country where only very limited of EVs are in market. So public charging stations are not so common and I think such apps may not be suitable in current situation. In such situation we have to charge either from our house or office, which ever place suitable. As of now, there is no any free or public charging places, but I think if the crude oil prices are jumping like this most of the people may turn to EV and hence chances for public charging facility.
'Jerry, there are options for charging, but we may not sure where the charging points are available. But in my other car, I know where ever we go there are gas stations and a full tank can yield more than 500 miles. Ok, am seriously considering your advice for a built in generator for EV as an alternate fuel source. What about sound/noise level, while in working condition.'
You do know there is an app for that, where charging stations are? If working, being used and for how long, ready to use and available to reserve? Not only that but it'll tell you when charged, how much charge, etc on your smart phone.
The only reason you don't know is you haven't looked hard. Just google EV charging stations for those in your area and the companies that run them like Chargepoint.
As for the generator it can be as noisy or quite as you make, buy it. Certainly can be below tire noise, the biggest source in most EV's.
"Why don't you buy or have a generator built to give yourself unlimited range? You only need 5kw or so depending on what EV you have"
Jerry, there are options for charging, but we may not sure where the charging points are available. But in my other car, I know where ever we go there are gas stations and a full tank can yield more than 500 miles. Ok, am seriously considering your advice for a built in generator for EV as an alternate fuel source. What about sound/noise level, while in working condition.
THis release is interesting. The only way to reduce battery heating for a given power level is to reduce internal resistance. Of course, that would also increase the efficiency of the system, so it would be a quite handy improvement all around. The reality is that just because something can be done once does not mean that it can be produced economically, with an adequate production yield. There may be some unanticipated challenges prior to getting into productioin. But it does sound encouraging.
No it's a drawback for your EV because it's not being used properly and likely not designed well. Many solutions available below.
Your EV is likely too heavy and not aero enough for an EV. Pure EV's should be used for regular commuting, etc within their range which should be figured out before one buys an EV to make sure it meets your needs.
Don't you take advantage of charging stations or opportunity charging? Here in Tampa there are a good number of free chargers at malls, downtown, etc. Plus many places like gas stations will let you charge. Most parking garages have 120vac outlets you can use.
I also have permission to charge at libraries, 7/11's, CVS among other places. Remember there are 5 billion or so outlets one can charge from if 120vac can be used.
Many charge up at work so a full charge when heading home.
Why don't you buy or have a generator built to give yourself unlimited range? You only need 5kw or so depending on what EV you have.
There are many solutions, just pick the ones right for you, your area. If you were running out of gas you'd get refilled, no different with EV's. And there are apps for that for your smart phone.
My present EV only has a 40 mile range on battery but unlimited range with either a generator or charging stations depending on trip needs. I don't own any other vehicles but EV's.
This summer I expect to travel at least to Washington DC with my newest EV, a 1,200lb 2 seat composite body/chassis sportwagon with 100 mile battery range and a 4kw generator and lead batteries.
Be more specific on your EV, area either here online or off and I can help you solve your problem. I'm in the phone book and online. I like doing online so others can see how real life EV's work.
"EV's shouldn't have more than 100-150 mile range"
Jerry, that's one of the major drawback for all Electric vehicles. I have an EV, which yield only 80-90 miles for a full charge. So am not able for any ride outside my local circle. So I think much R&D has to happen for a better yield battery.
Charles, from user point of view they are bothered about price and output power, irrespective of cooling system. Any R&D for a better yield from lithium ion based batteries. I think if cooling system is removing from Electric vehicles; the cost can be brought down considerably.
Tesla Motors plans to roll out a “compelling, affordable electric car” that will sell for about half the price of its high-profile Model S by the end of 2016, company chairman Elon Musk said last week.
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