All About EV Range Extenders
Electric vehicle range was often put to question in the past. However, advancements in the sector have put those questions to rest. EVs nowadays are more advanced than ever and come with a remarkable range. Moreover, there are options like an EV range extender that further extend driving distance. With these, drivers can enjoy long trips knowing that they have a backup option should the vehicle run low on charge.
That said, we will do a detailed overview of range extenders for EVs and see how these work.
Evolution of Electric Cars
The electric car evolution has seen these modern vehicles become the industry favourite. The eco-friendly element such as reducing carbon emission makes EVs highly appealing. Additionally, EVs have overcome all obstacles that once put their existence into question.
For instance, EV range is no longer an issue as modern electric vehicles can run for considerable miles on a single charge. Moreover, the expanding network of EV charging stations ensures that people need not travel far to charge their vehicles.
Furthermore, charging EVs at home has made owning an electric vehicle more convenient than ever. Besides advancements in electric vehicles, additional parts like an EV extender further enhance the electric vehicle driving and owning experience.
What is An EV Range Extender?
As the name suggests, an EV extender adds some extra miles to the vehicle. It’s a small combustion engine that serves as a backup generator. When an electric car runs low on charge, the range extender charges the battery. Consequently, the vehicle can travel more than its specified range.
While range extenders might seem similar to how hybrid cars operate, a crucial distinction exists. Unlike hybrids, extenders can’t propel the vehicle; instead, they solely charge the battery. In essence, extenders serve as a reliable backup option if your journey takes an unexpected turn.
How Does An EV Range Extender Work?
The microbus turbine uses a small combustion engine. It is powered by fuel, gas or diesel. The extender remains idle when the EV battery has enough charge. However, as the EV charge drops below the optimal level, the range enhancer kicks in.
The extender provides power to the electric motor and allows it to cover extra miles. With a range increaser at one’s disposal, EV range anxiety is less than likely to be an issue. Additionally, the range extender runs at an optimal speed – ideal for generating electricity. On the other hand, conventional combustion engines frequently change speeds to match a car’s power demands.
Benefits of EV Range Extenders
Several benefits make an electric car range extender for a viable accessory to have in your electric car. The major pros are listed below:
INCREASED RANGE
All electric vehicles come with a certain range they can cover on a single charge. With a range extender, drivers can add some extra miles to their vehicles. This particularly becomes useful for EV owners who reside in remote areas with a limited number of EV stations.
REDUCED RANGE ANXIETY
A range extender provides peace of mind and can help overcome electric car range anxiety. In addition to the EV road trip tips, drivers can also opt for a range extender to get the most out of all journeys.
BEST OF BOTH WORLDS
With an EV range extender, drivers can get the most out of both worlds. For instance, the eco-friendly benefits of an EV and the range of a combustion engine.
REDUCED EMISSIONS
Compared to conventional combustion engine vehicles, a range extender produces significantly low emissions. Therefore, it remains an environmentally friendly option. Moreover, the component only comes into play when a vehicle runs low on charge. Owners with long-range EVs may not need to use the component at all.
LOW FUEL COSTS
An electric car range extender does not consume the same amount of fuel as a conventional petrol vehicle. Consequently, this means a good amount of extra miles at a relatively low cost.
Vehicles with An EV Range Extender
Considering the need for extra miles, several notable brands have introduced vehicles with range extenders. For instance, the BMW i3 Range Extender is available with a 0.6-litre 2-cylinder petrol engine.
Similarly, the Chevrolet Volt comes equipped with a 1.5-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine. As an additional component, the price tends to be on the higher side. However, the many benefits make these and similar vehicles worth the money.
FAQs
Do EV Range Extenders Work?
Yes, range extenders help to add some extra miles to the vehicle. With many popular brands going electric in the near future, there are likely to be more advancements like range extenders in the sector.
Can I Extend the Range of My EV?
Yes, you can increase the range of your electric vehicle. Besides taking care of the EV battery, be sure to avoid bad driving habits such as aggressive acceleration and braking. Additionally, you can opt for an EV range extender to add some extra miles to the vehicle. Moreover, you can follow the ways to improve EV battery life as it is the major force behind an electric car’s range.
This is everything about the EV range extender working and pros. A range extender can be helpful if an EV runs low on battery. In addition to extra miles, it also provides great peace of mind.
Follow the EV battery maintenance tips to get the most out of the component and make full use of the vehicle’s range. Moreover, several brands have suggested range-increasing tips for their electric vehicles. For instance, the many ways to improve the Tesla range can come in handy for Tesla owners.
Besides, modern EVs come with a great range – eliminating the need for extenders as a whole. Browse through these used cars for sale in the UAE and select an electric car with long range.
Stay connected to dubizzle’s auto blog to learn about extended-range electric vehicles and more.