Auto Evolution: The Electronic Vehicle Resource
These days, we hear more about how the ways in which we use our vehicles impacts the world around us. Unfortunately, in most cases, this impact is not beneficial—and in fact, can be quite destructive. To counterbalance these negative impacts, many automotive engineers have turned to the production of electric vehicles—or EVs—for use around the world. Individuals who are considering the purchase of an EV may want to first understand more about their history, technology, fuel source, earth friendly advantages, and safety. In addition, understanding how a fuel-powered vehicle can be converted to an EV is also valuable information for people considering this type of car.
While the invention of EVs is often considered to be a relatively modern development, this is not really the case. In fact, some research suggests that EVs have been around for as many as 200 years. The first EV was developed by Anyos Jedlik, a Hungarian inventor who engineered a tiny version of the automobile. Despite significant interest in the EV, it was slowly phased out as gasoline came to dominate the world-wide market. Recent dramatic increases in the price of gas, however, have been linked to a revival in EV technology.
In most cases, EVs are broken into two categories—pure electric cars and those which are hybrids. As suggested by the name, pure electric cars are those which rely only on the use of an electric propulsion system to motor the car. In contrast, hybrid vehicles use both electric technology and more traditional versions of internal combustion engines for enhanced fuel efficiency. Depending on the manner in which the vehicle will be used, either of these types of propulsion systems can be effective.
- A full hybrid can run just on the energy obtained from the electrical system.
- A mild hybrid cannot run on the electrical system alone, but may substantially lower the work of the internal combustion engine.
- A plug-in hybrid is a specialized version of the hybrid that can run either on an electric or internal combustion engine. It is often considered to be the “either-or” version of the hybrid vehicle.
EV cars may also be classified as being either battery or fuel cell-powered. As described previously, battery-powered EVs are those that are run primary through the use of large, industrial batteries. In contrast, fuel cell-powered vehicles create electricity through the use of hydrogen and oxygen. Because of these individual components, fuel cell-powered vehicles are sometimes identified as being able to run “on water.”
There are a number of important earth-friendly benefits associated with the use of EVs. According to significant amounts of research, EVs can be effective at reducing the air emissions most commonly associated with the development of urban smog. In addition, EVs have been found to be successful at reducing carbon dioxide emissions. These factors cannot only be effective at preventing air pollution, but may also be beneficial in the protection of soil, water, and mammal life.
- Hybrid cars produce 294 grams of carbon dioxide per mile.
- Traditional vehicles produce 452 grams of carbon dioxide per mile.
In most cases, people who wish to drive an EV choose to purchase one from a dealership or private seller. Individuals who do not want to make this type of investment, however, may be able to convert their fuel-powered vehicle to an EV. To do this, individuals must obtain the appropriate types of battery packs and hybrid vehicle alternators. People who have never attempted this type of project in the past may want to consult with an automotive expert who has experience in the field of hybrid technology.
There is no question that driving any vehicle caries an inherent risk. In fact, some research suggests that there are as many as five million car accidents ear year. Driving an EV is no more or less safe than driving a more traditional car. Before traveling in an EV, individuals should make sure that the car is in good shape, is properly fueled, and is outfitted with the appropriate types of emergency equipment.
- Store hybrid vehicles indoors during very hot and cold weather to prevent possible dysfunction.
- Always follow the speed limits when driving an EV.
- Make sure brakes and tires are always in good working condition before driving an EV.
Obviously, EVs are impressive vehicles that can be effective when used properly. Before purchasing this type of car, potential owners should engage in adequate amounts of research to make sure they are acceptable. As with other vehicles, customers are usually allowed to test drive EVs before making a final purchase. Following basic safety procedures after the purchase of this type of car is essential to preventing potential injury or accident.
Individuals who are interested in learning more about electric vehicles and their advantages may want to consult the following web pages:
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