Battery electric vehicle
From ArticleWorld
The Battery electric vehicle (also known as BEV) is an electric vehicle that has the energy storage system based on chemical energy taken from batteries.
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History
The first ever automobiles to be used were Battery electric vehicles. This was during the early nineties, when such cars held all the records for land speed and distances traveled. For instance, the first world speed record over 100 km/h was set by Camille Jenatzy’s energy vehicle named La Jamais Contente, in 1899. It reached 105.88 kilometers per hour. BEVs were very popular and at one point in history they even sold better than gasoline powered automobiles. Several reasons have been given for the downfall in popularity of Battery electric vehicles. Most specialists agree that the production of the Ford Model T in 1908 was a big motive that led to BEV downfall.
Performance
Contrary to popular belief, many BEVs produced today can outgun gasoline powered vehicles. This is because they can provide better power deliverability to the wheels, thus increasing performance. Several motors can be used in connection with one or more wheels with the purpose of providing better acceleration and breaking systems. Torque is higher in BEVs because of the elimination of the axle and transmission systems. The creation of one gear models adds even more to the performances a Battery electric vehicle can achieve.
Fuel
With fuel being the basis of a propulsion system that one day will not be able to use it anymore (because of resources ending), BEVs have to run as much as possible on the given amount of propulsion “fuel”. Although technology evolved, it still does not provide vehicles with a fuel system that can last for a lifetime. This translates in the need of refueling. In the case of Battery electric vehicles it means that the battery needs to be recharged. Common techniques used to do this rely on the common power grid. Basically any source of energy can be used but the recharging needs to be done in a controlled environment. Even fuel can be utilized by using it for powering an electric current generator.
Range
One of the biggest topics to be discussed by specialists and researchers stands in the range of a Battery electric vehicle. Many aspects go into the assessment of the range of the car like model, weight, battery types and more. The most common vehicle will have a range of up to 80 km with other models, using a Lithium Ion battery, being able to reach 500 km. Studies pointed out that most trips done by car will be around 30 km. per day. This translates in the fact that a BEV can meet the daily standards of an individual but in many cases it can not.