DEVELOPMENT OF AN ELECTRIC CONCEPT VEHICLE WITH A SUPER QUICK CHARGING SYSTEM. IN:ELECTRIC AND HYBRID VEHICLE TECHNOLOGY

One solution to the need for pollution-free, energy-efficient vehicles is the electric automobile which draws power from rechargeable batteries. There are few of these vehicles on the road today, however, becasue present batteries can store very little energy compared with that of a tank of gasoline. To obtain adequate range, the concept vehicle described here adopts a new battery which can be recharged to 40 percent of capacity in only six minutes. This super quick-charging system makes it possible to recharge the batteries at an electric recharging station just as gasoline-powered vehicles are refilled at service stations. The electric concept vehicle also has improved aerodynamics, reduced rolling resistance and a lighter curb weight, which help assure adequate range.