What You Need To Know About EV Batteries
A Car Powered by an Electric Battery: Are They Safe?
Electric vehicles (EVs) or plug-in cars, as some people refer to them still, have to undergo rigorous testing just like petrol and diesel cars. These tests also includes putting in place safeguards to prevent the battery from becoming dislodged in an accident, resulting in the possibility of the car’s chassis becoming electrified. This article explores EV batteries in more detail and the benefit of taking an auto electrician course.
“I’ve Heard That The Charge in Electric Vehicle Batteries Doesn’t Last Very Long and That Charging Ports Are Hard to Find”
It is true that in early models you were unlikely to get much further than 100 miles on a full charge, and yes, you might have had to travel many miles to find a charging port. However, technology has developed and electric cars have become more popular. This is due to cheaper operating costs coupled with the reduced environmental impact. Over time, the battery performance has also improved. It is now possible to cover 200+ miles in EV models on the market. The number of charging ports has also risen exponentially, and not only in petrol stations. Many sat navs now carry information about charging points near your location.
What Type of Battery Will I Find in a Modern Electric Car?
Lithium-ion batteries are the ones in common usage today. They offer a high-energy density and last longer than other types of electric battery, which is why they are the battery of choice for EV manufacturers.
Battery technology has come a long way since they were first used over 40 years ago. Back then they were sensitive to temperature and performance deteriorated with age. More alarmingly, they were also a fire hazard should the battery become damaged. Thankfully, modern lithium-ion batteries have sacrificed energy capacity for greater safety features, longer life and faster charging.
What Other Types of Vehicle Batteries Are There?
Lead-acid batteries were a prototype in the EV industry. There are two types, starter batteries and deep cycle batteries. The first used about 20% of its electric charge to start the car and deep cycle batteries discharged energy over a prolonged period to keep the vehicle running. Technology today has moved on and you won’t see this type of battery in an EV today.
Nickel metal hydride batteries give a greater output than lead-acid batteries but overall are much less efficient. They do, however, have a long life with recorded mileage in excess of 100,000. Whereas, Zebra batteries needed to be warm before operating and their power capabilities were not great.
Auto Electrician Courses
So, I hope that dispels a few myths. EV batteries are perfectly safe and your vehicle manufacturer will tell you all you need to know about the battery in your vehicle. Maintenance of an electric vehicle, however, requires an auto electrician course despite the many safeguards that are in place. The risk of electrocution is real and maintenance requires specialist knowledge. Remember though, that even though you can travel a relatively long distance in an electric vehicle, like any other car, regular maintenance is key for optimal performance.
To find out more about the auto electrician courses we offer, please do not hesitate to contact us today.