e-mobility - The key to success
The limitations of electric vehicles are (1) the in comparison to combustion engine lower energy density and the therefore lower range of the vehicle. In addition (2) the missing charging infrastructure which should be provided on every area where the vehicle "naturally" parks for longer periods of time. (e.g. at home, at work, at public areas, at supermarkets, ...) and quick charging along the way (e.g. high-ways)
The energy storage
The further development and distribution of the lithium-ion technology and its significantly higher energy density will enable the breakthrough of e-mobility.
The focus in the development of automotive batteries is on cell chemistry providing high energy density. So-called battery “management” systems (BMS) are in fact only balancing systems since decades. It has been overlooked that the quickest and easiest way to improve high voltage battery-packs would be a “real” management of individual cells according to their health and aging parameters. Today’s features of an individual automotive battery cell would enable EVs to run more than a Million Kilometers (3000-5000 cycles of 300-500 km). But real-life-data shows a different and quite heterogeneous picture.
The difference is based on the heterogeneous aging of the individual cells. Today’s balancing strategies cannot get out the full potential of the battery. A completely new approach is needed: effective control of each individual cell by its health and aging parameters.
The charging infrastructure
The main factor of success for any type of mobility is an already available infrastructure, which is adjusted to its needs. In terms of electric vehicles, charging stations must be available on every parking area and a local integration in the power grid must be enabled. Besides an intelligent communication between the charging stations, power grid, vehicle and driver, the charging station should provide flexible and "acceptable" charging times. (e.g. fast charging in a coffee break)