Are you interested in electric automobiles and zero emission car technology? We answer all your questions around this subject. Before buying a new vehicle that runs on electric power, you should at least know its mechanism. Then, also know how the charging process takes place. And finally, learn how reliable the boosted car remains.
What is the working mechanism of the electric car?
In a simplified manner, one or more electric motors drive the wheels of the vehicle. This battery-powered system also recovers energy lost during braking. The motor charges the battery. If previously the electric motor used alternating current or direct current, the electric vehicle now includes a converter. This device adapts to different types of charging stations, whether AC, DC, low or high power.
How to recharge the battery of an electric vehicle?
You can charge your car at home using the mains socket, a reinforced socket or a Wallbox fast terminal. You also have the option of using public charging stations. There are several kinds of charging stations. They differ according to the type of current (AC or DC), the power or the models of the power outlet. If you prefer to charge your batteries at home, the wallbox is the fastest, safest and most convenient way to refuel. However, public terminals offer more power and allow you to recharge in record time. This supply option can be free or paid, it works thanks to an access code or a card.
Admittedly, the electric car remains more expensive than vehicles running on petrol or diesel. But the cost of recharging the battery remains well below the price of fuel. In addition, charging may cost less if done during off-peak hours (depending on your electricity subscription). You can even take advantage of the free terminals.
The cost of home charging depends on the plan you choose, the energy consumption or the capacity of your battery. If you opt for a basic electricity subscription, the pricing per kWh is fixed. Use the off-peak/peak hour subscription to benefit from a reduced rate between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m.
On public terminals, the price of the service changes from one operator to another, but also according to the power of the station.
How does braking energy recovery work?
The recovery of kinetic energy in the deceleration phase and its transformation into current makes it possible to increase the autonomy of the vehicle. The rotation of the wheels and the stator induces a magnetic field which produces electricity, which then returns to the battery. This system allows you to ride with an extended range, so you will have less need to refuel.
Can the battery of supercharged cars be recycled?
Yes, the Lithium-ion batteries that power most electric or plug-in hybrid vehicles can be recycled. However, in Europe, the minimum accepted refurbishment rate is 50%.
What is the consumption of an electric car?
The consumption of an electric car depends on the power of the engine, the model in question and the type of driving. On average, it can turn around 17kWh/100 km.
What is the range of an electric car?
The average capacity of the most affordable electric cars on the market is between 40 to 60 kWh. Moreover, sedans and utilities integrating such cells have a range of 150 to 350 km. With a 50 kWh Lithium battery, you can travel an average of 300 km. Plug-in hybrid models, on the other hand, have a low capacity battery and can cover 50 km in 100% electric mode.
Do they offer satisfactory performance?
About power or battery life, it all depends on the model in question. However, electric vehicles benefit from the torque available as soon as the accelerator pedal is pressed.
Are they reliable?
One of the advantages of the electric vehicle is the simplicity of its mechanisms, compared to thermal cars. Because of this, engine components are less prone to wear or failure. No need to drain, no gearbox problem, you get rid of frequent maintenance. If a thermal car requires a review every 20,000 km, that of the electric is done with 30,000 km.
Do they work in winter?
Yes the electric automobile works in winter. But its autonomy decreases because of the extreme cold. Indeed, below 0°, the battery loses 10 to 50% of its autonomy, or even more depending on the intensity of the cold.
Why does the battery of an electric car decrease with the cold?
The reduction in autonomy is unstoppable, because the cold causes the voltage to drop. In addition, heating consumes more electrical energy. Using this device during the winter significantly increases energy consumption. Indeed, if it is equipped with resistance its consumption is from 1 to 4kW. Opt for a heat pump, because it consumes less energy.
What are BYmyCAR’s offers in terms of electromobility?
The BYmy CAR group provides new or used electric vehicles in excellent condition. We also offer charging solutions.