Concerns about preserving affordable mobility combined with increases in the price of fuel have expedited the development of concepts which utilize electric energy as a universal 'secondary' energy carrier. The current technology for existing electric vehicle batteries lacks the energy density in order to provide equal driving distance as conventional vehicles. However, solutions are being developed which will avoid completely draining the battery and extend the range of the vehicle. Potential uses for this technology are small generator sets called range extender modules, which are optimized for this special application and are powered by combustion engines. The concepts considered were based on the assumption that small pure Electric Vehicles (EVs) that are mainly intended for short distance driving will not be successful if the driving comfort and usability level is not competitive with modern vehicles. This paper describes the state of the art in range extender modules, including their configuration and specifications. In addition, the potential of these range extender concepts is described and preferred concepts are recommended for some specific applications. Range Extender Modules (REMs) for EVs can close the gap to vehicles with conventional drivetrains. Therefore, the predominant aim of the REMs considered is the enhancement of the customer acceptance level of e-mobility. Significant improvements can be achieved regarding EV usability, independent of ambient temperatures, available non-stop driving distance and overall drivetrain and energy storage system costs. The primary challenges for REMs are NVH behavior, cold start emissions, integration and system costs. FEV has considered and tested several combustion engine-based REM solutions. In the small vehicle class one of the most promising solutions is the Wankel REM, due to its excellent base operating conditions for acceptable NVH behavior and city car integration and the FEV designed V2 engine due to its package and cost optimized design. However, mass production and emissions remain a challenge for the Wankel REM. In this respect, REMs with conventional piston engines still offer advantages. Range extender vehicles, when used in urban areas, show great promise and provide a reasonable concept within the economic marketplace.
E-vehicles with range extender. Properties and potentials
E-Fahrzeuge mit Range Extender - Eigenschaften und Potenziale
2009
24 Seiten, 18 Bilder, 3 Tabellen, 2 Quellen
Aufsatz (Konferenz)
Englisch
E vehicles with range extender - properties and potentials
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