We all have utilized batteries in the course of our day-to-day lives, whether consciously or unconsciously. And with the recent movement towards the miniaturization of things, we often entirely forget that batteries are everywhere. Until they stop working, that is!
It’s a bit different with bigger high-powered batteries. They are used and recharged and require upkeep. With the advent of the electric vehicle as a viable driving option, the conversation must shortly come to the realities of the electric vehicle battery. Of immediate concern are such custom car parts as capacity, size and weight.
The Capacity
Now this article has as its focus, the size of electric vehicle batteries. For instance, a stock vehicle battery measured in inches (9 x 12 x 7). The car battery market is well established and at the present time, size is inextricably bound to capacity. The real issue is power – power for acceleration and maintaining speeds above 10-15 mph which demand lots of amperage (Amps).
So, in the example of electric cars, more capacity means more amps and more amps require more electric vehicle batteries. This is where size plays a part; it’s about the space required for sufficient battery storage.
Size vs. Weight
Size is not the only problem with the employment of electric vehicle batteries. With our current technology, with size comes weight and this further complicates electric vehicle efficiency. Beginning with a car full of batteries allows little room for people, extra payloads and daily shopping items.
Step By Step
So we start small. We’re already used to golf carts; now we’re seeing that the two seater electric vehicle is coming into its own in urban cities. We haven’t figured out all the troubles yet, but the process has finally started – people are considering driving electric vehicles, battery issues aside. Alternative lifestyle isn’t just for hippies anymore.
People are shifting their beliefs, with growing concern about environmental impact, economic sustainability and the rising cost of oil-based fuels. All these factors are playing their part in what could become a great national shift.
Hybrids are bridging the gap while an old industry reinvents itself. Sooner or later the electric vehicle battery issues will solve themselves.
In the meantime, take a tranquil stroll and think about what a quiet, peaceful ride in the clean air would be like. You never know – we might even enjoy slowing down to stop and smell the roses.
