The global market for electric cars is increasing at a rapid rate. Perceptions are changing, model ranges are growing, policies are shifting, vehicle capabilities are improving and the cars are becoming more accessible. For many buyers, however, charging and the associated range-related issues remain a stumbling block. A modern electric vehicle (EV) might be capable … Continue reading Faster 800-volt EV charging capability makes all-electric motoring more viable
For an electric car to deliver the best capabilities and comfort, the temperature of its components and cabin must be managed effectively. Batteries and control units that get too hot during operation, for example, can cause degraded performance, charging and range issues. Ineffective cabin heating and cooling solutions, similarly, can result in excessive power draw … Continue reading All-electric Audi Q4 e-tron features two cooling loops, R744-charged heat pump
By Craig Van Batenburg (Article reproduced by permission of SAE International) The Automotive Career Development Center (ACDC) that I founded over 20 years ago provides training and tech support to the world’s independent electric-vehicle (EV and hybrid) technicians, who will be asked to fix and maintain the systems as they age. Our facility in central … Continue reading Heat pump technology a game changer for widespread electric vehicle adoption
Britain’s largest supermarket chain, Tesco, has added 30 all-electric electric refrigerated vans to its home delivery fleet. The 30 LDV EV80 vans are equipped with E-200 electric refrigeration units from Thermo King that feature patented power management that contributes to lower overall energy consumption, increased vehicle autonomy and higher efficiency and reliability. Using this combination … Continue reading Fleet of electric grocery delivery vans for Tesco
One of the challenges faced by manufacturers looking to expedite the development and production of electric cars lies within the battery management system (BMS). To ensure the pack provides a good service life and power, the BMS must monitor the cells and use that information to optimise and protect the battery. However, in a centralised … Continue reading Wireless tech to speed EV R&D
An all-electric Cessna Grand Caravan, developed by electric propulsion company magniX, has completed its first test flight. The “eCaravan,” which is reputedly the largest electric commercial plane, is powered by a 560kW magni500 electric motor and has a range of around 160km. The 30-minute flight at the AeroTEC test centre in Washington was a key … Continue reading Electric Cessna takes flight
The New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF), as part of its ongoing sustainability developments, has been trialling an all-electric motorcycle. Lieutenant Colonel Brad Gallop, the land combat working group lead from the capability branch of the NZDF, said: “Electric vehicles are an emerging technology that we need to look at and to see how good it … Continue reading New Zealand Defence Force tests Ubco 2×2 electric motorbike
Japanese truck and bus company Fuso is set to offer an all-electric truck, called the eCanter, in Australia. The zero-emissions light truck, which is designed for inner-city operations, is due to go on sale in February 2021. Drive for the 4×2 truck is provided by an electric motor that produces 135kW and 390Nm, which is … Continue reading Electric Fuso eCanter truck for Australia
Growing global electric bus fleet aided by tech, manufacturers and infrastructure Cast your eye over a car manufacturer’s website and you’ll no doubt see myriad environmentally friendly offerings. All-electric variants, hybrid models and even the odd hydrogen-powered derivative are growing in number as the industry strives to cut emissions, meet government targets and avoid penalties. … Continue reading Electric buses paving the way to cleaner cities
Volvo Penta has developed an electric driveline for the Rosenbauer prototype Revolutionary Technology (RT) fire engine, which is due to undergo real-world trials in 2021. The prototype is equipped with a pair of 350kW electric motors, a 100kWh battery system and power electronics from Volvo Penta, all of which is reported to provide the performance … Continue reading Volvo Penta electrifies fire truck
