Energy Source Technologies in EVs — Lesson 5

This lesson covers the various energy source technologies used in electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs). It delves into the four main types of energy sources: batteries, ultra-capacitors, ultra-flywheels, and fuel cells, explaining how each stores energy and their respective capacities for bidirectional power flow. The lesson also introduces the Ragone plot, a tool for comparing the performance of energy sources, and discusses the importance of specific energy and specific power in EV design. It further explores the different types of batteries and their respective advantages and disadvantages. The lesson concludes with a discussion on the potential of harnessing solar energy, waste heat energy, and vibration energy in EVs.

Video Highlights

00:25 - Introduction to energy source technologies in EVs
04:36 - Comparison of the performance of different energy sources using a Ragone plot
06:13 - Comparison of different types of batteries
10:56 - Discussion on the research and development in ultra-capacitors and ultra-flywheels
15:20 - Exploration of harnessing solar energy, waste heat energy, and vibration energy in EVs

Key Takeaways

- Energy source technology is crucial in EVs as it provides all the onboard energy requirements.
- Batteries, ultra-capacitors, ultra-flywheels, and fuel cells are the four main types of energy sources used in EVs and HEVs.
- The Ragone plot is a useful tool for comparing the performance of energy sources.
- Specific energy and specific power are important factors in EV design.
- Different types of batteries have their own advantages and disadvantages.
- There is potential to harness solar energy, waste heat energy, and vibration energy in EVs.