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
Researchers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) predict that the global ocean could become a measurable source of ozone-depleting CFC-11 in the future. Commonly used as a refrigerant, propellant and foam blowing agent, CFC-12 was phased out in 2010 – although there has been some illegal use since. Nevertheless, atmospheric levels of CFC-11 are … Continue reading Warming oceans could start emitting absorbed CFCs
It’s official: Mercedes-Benz has confirmed to SightGlass News that it is no longer pursuing carbon dioxide as an automotive refrigerant. The experience of CoolCar Hamilton with grey import R744 Mercedes models, as featured in Issue 23 of SightGlass News, suggests the systems are problematic. An inability to cool effectively in hot climates, as experienced by … Continue reading Mercedes-Benz dumps R744
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
The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has proposed new legislation that will start the nation’s phase-down of environmentally harmful HFCs. Its first step in the proposal will be to establish baseline HFC manufacturing and consumption levels, enabling proper reduction targets to be developed. The EPA’s proposed plans further involve assessing and deploying ways to … Continue reading EPA moves to phase down HFCs In United States
I don’t know about you, but the last place I expected to see R1234yf show up was under the bonnet of a Chinese-made electric van. The Skywell EC11, imported by Brisbane-based EV Automotive, is a medium wheelbase mid-roof van with a design that has shades of Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, Renault Master and Ford Transit. Unlike those … Continue reading Brisbane truck show debuts Include several electrified trucks, vans, minibuses and R1234yf
