While electric cars are on the rise, many drivers are still concerned about running out of juice. Six partners from Germany, France, Austria and Spain have cut the consumption of electric vehicles with a new intelligent energy management and recovery system.
The OpEneR team (Optimal Energy consumption and Recovery) has developed new functions and connected components and systems better to allow the driver to receive braking tips based on traffic flows and advice on the best route to limit energy use. Up to 30% of energy can be saved without losing much time on the way. The new solutions will be progressively commercialised and integrated into production of new models, making electric cars even greener.
Greener, safer and smarter routes
Engineers and researchers have worked to improve the electrical powertrain, the regenerative braking system, the navigation system and the surround sensors. They have developed a networked architecture with various functions that connect these elements with each other.
For example, the ‘eco-routing’ function considers the specific needs of an electric vehicle when calculating the most energy efficient route. An adaptive cruise control guarantees an economical semi-automated driving style. It is based on radar and video systems supported by enhanced map data including information on inclines, declines and speed limits. Car-to-infrastructure communication provides information about traffic light status. User-friendly signals appear on the large display as part of the dashboard, so that you know when to lift the pedal as you approach traffic lights, city boundaries, speed limits or other vehicles.
Following a period of further road testing, the system is expected to be progressively integrated into production as from 2015 onwards.
The European Union aims to have 8-9 million electric vehicles on the road by 2020.
Under the new EU research and innovation programme Horizon 2020, €5 billion will be invested in electronic components and systems via a public-private partnership ECSEL (Electronic Components and Systems for European Leadership).
For more info visit:
http://www.ecsel-ju.eu/.
http://www.fp7-opener.eu
Photo: The European Union aims to have 8-9million electric vehicles on the road by 2020.