LEC Team, Author at Learn Electric Cars

Nissan Sets Out to Revolutionize Its Solid-State Battery Technology

The Japanese automaker is taking giant steps toward innovative battery technology solutions to power its future EVs. In the rapidly evolving landscape of electric vehicles, Nissan is positioning itself as a trailblazer by investing in all-solid-state battery (ASSB) technology. The company envisions this innovation as a game-changer, propelling EVs into the next decade. Let’s delve into Nissan’s ambitious plans, exploring the potential benefits and challenges associated with solid-state batteries You might also like: Could Dongfeng M-Hero 917 Be Perfect Rival to Hummer EV? Leap in Battery Technology Nissan’s commitment to solid-state battery technology marks a significant leap from conventional lithium-ion cells. The company aims to double the energy density at the pack level while slashing fast charging times by two-thirds. This leap forward is not merely an incremental improvement over existing lithium-ion batteries but a revolutionary stride towards making EVs more efficient and practical. Battery Cooling Innovation One distinctive aspect of Nissan’s solid-state battery approach is its intention to eliminate the need for cooling. Unlike traditional EVs, which rely on water or air cooling systems to manage temperatures, Nissan believes that solid-state cells can withstand higher temperatures without compromising safety or performance. This unconventional strategy challenges the norm, aiming to streamline the battery design and reduce complexity, especially crucial for larger EVs like trucks, vans, and SUVs. You might also like: Ownership Experience of EVs More Tricky Than ICE Cars – Study Overcoming Challenges Nissan’s venture into solid-state battery technology reflects a learning curve from its past experiences. The company faced challenges with the cooling needs of the original battery cells in the Nissan Leaf, but subsequent advancements, including a battery chemistry change in 2015, addressed these issues. Nissan’s hands-on experience positions it uniquely in the pursuit of a cooling-free ASSB, learning from the past to drive innovation in the future. What The Future Looks Like While Nissan’s vision for solid-state batteries is promising, there are challenges to overcome. Currently seeing around 200 cycles in laboratory tests, Nissan acknowledges the longevity hurdle and plans to establish a pilot line for larger cells in 2024. The company collaborates with NASA and UC San Diego, incorporating AI techniques to address issues like lithium dendrite growth, ensuring the safety and durability of the solid-state cells. The road ahead involves fine-tuning the cells, determining the optimal chemistry, and scaling up production. Nissan Solid-State Battery Technology Nissan’s pursuit of solid-state battery technology represents a bold step towards revolutionizing the electric vehicle industry. The company’s ambitious goals, from doubling energy density to eliminating the need for cooling, indicate a commitment to pushing the boundaries of what EVs can achieve. As challenges persist and technology evolves, Nissan’s collaboration with leading institutions positions it as a key player in shaping the future of electric mobility. You might also like: How to Prevent Effects of Extreme Hot & Cold Weather on EV Batteries? Learn Electric Cars Says In a landscape where sustainability and efficiency are paramount, Nissan’s journey into solid-state battery technology holds the promise of not only enhancing the performance of larger EVs but also influencing the overall trajectory of electric vehicle development. As the automotive industry undergoes a paradigm shift towards cleaner and more sustainable solutions, Nissan’s focus on innovation underscores its dedication to providing consumers with advanced, reliable, and environmentally friendly transportation options. In conclusion, while the path to solid-state battery integration may be challenging, Nissan’s commitment to overcoming obstacles and collaborating with industry leaders indicates a future where electric vehicles are not just a viable alternative but a superior choice for a wide range of applications. As we eagerly anticipate the developments in the coming years, Nissan’s role in shaping the EV landscape is undoubtedly one to watch.

Could Dongfeng M-Hero 917 Be Perfect Rival to Hummer EV?

32 Comments / EV News / By LEC Team

Chinese EV markers are coming up with exciting models in the electric realm and the Dongfeng M-Hero 917 could be the one to watch out for. China’s automotive landscape has witnessed the grand arrival of the Dongfeng M-Hero 917. It is a formidable off-road vehicle with an electric heart. This high-end SUV offers both Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) and Extended-Range Electric Vehicle (EREV) powertrain options. The EV offers staggering peak power of 1,088 hp and a range that goes up to 1,032 km (CLTC). In this blog, we’ll delve deeper into its design features, specifications, and what makes it stand out. You might also like: How to Prevent Effects of Extreme Hot & Cold Weather on EV Batteries? Dongfeng M-Hero 917 Design Exterior The M-Hero 917’s exterior design exudes ruggedness and power. It boasts massive bumpers, substantial ground clearance, short overhangs, a high bonnet line, and sharp LED lights. Measuring 4,987 / 2,080 / 1,935 mm (LxWxH) with a wheelbase of 2,950 mm, the 917 is larger than life. It iss 70 mm longer, 149 mm wider, and 34 mm lower than the iconic Mercedes-Benz G-Class. Despite its mammoth size, the M-Hero 917 accommodates just five seats, emphasizing its focus on performance and adventure. Tech-Savvy Interior Inside, the M-Hero 917 surprises with its technological prowess. It boasts three screens: an LCD instrument panel, a driver’s touchscreen, and one for the front passenger. The centre console features a prominent gear shifter and a wireless phone charging pad. While this SUV is designed for off-roading, it also offers optional Alcantara-wrapped seats, a decision that might raise eyebrows among purists. You might also like: Ownership Experience of EVs More Tricky Than ICE Cars – Study Dongfeng M-Hero 917 Specs The M-Hero 917 rests on Dongfeng’s new MORA platform and offers two distinct powertrain options. The BEV variant boasts four electric motors generating a mind-boggling 800 kW (1,088 hp). This enables a lightning-quick zero-to-hundred acceleration in just 4.2 seconds. These electric motors are powered by a colossal 140-kWh ternary (NMC) battery from CATL. However, due to the vehicle’s substantial curb weight (3,293 kg) and high power output, its maximum range on a single battery charge stands at 505 km (CLTC). This may be considered relatively low in today’s EV landscape. The EREV version of the M-Hero 917 comes with three electric motors delivering 600 kW (816 hp) and a 1.5-litre turbocharged engine producing 197 hp. Interestingly, the internal combustion engine in the EREV acts as a generator. It charges the battery and provides power directly to the electric motor. This setup pairs with a 66 kWh ternary battery from CATL, results in an impressive mixed range of 1,032 km (CLTC). You might also like: How Are EREVs Different From BEVs, PHEVs or HEVs? Learn Electric Cars Says The M-Hero 917 is a standout addition to the off-road vehicle market in China. While its price tag of 637,700 Yuan (approximately 87,500 USD) for the EREV version and 697,700 Yuan (approximately 95,730 USD) for the BEV version places it firmly in the premium category, it offers exceptional performance and a unique blend of technology and capability. It’s worth noting that the M-Hero 917 and the BYD YangWang U8, although both high-performance SUVs, cater to different niches in the market, with the YangWang U8 being larger and accommodating a third row of seats. Dongfeng has ambitious plans for the M-Hero 917, aiming to sell 1,500 units in the coming year, with annual sales projections reaching 4,000 units. As electric and extended-range electric vehicles gain popularity worldwide, the M-Hero 917 is poised to capture the imaginations of adventure seekers and off-road enthusiasts alike.

How are EREVs different from PHEVs, BEVs, HEVs

How Are EREVs Different From BEVs, PHEVs or HEVs?

22 Comments / Hybrid / By LEC Team

EREVs refer to Extended Range Electric Vehicles and they are slightly different from BEVs (Battery Electric Vehicles), PHEVs (Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles) and HEVs (Hybrid Electric Vehicles). We take a look at the details of EREVs and how they differ from PHEVs, BEVs and HEVs. In the realm of electrified vehicles, Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) have gained substantial recognition for their ability to combine electric power with an internal combustion engine. However, a lesser-known but equally intriguing concept is the Extended Range Electric Vehicle (EREV). EREVs represent a unique take on electrification, differing significantly from PHEVs. In this article, we delve into the world of EREVs, exploring their distinctive features, advantages, and limitations. You might also like: How to Prevent Effects of Extreme Hot & Cold Weather on EV Batteries? Difference Between EREVs, PHEVs, BEVs and HEVs The main difference lies in the configuration and application. BEVs operate solely with the help of batteries. They supply power to the electric motor, which drives the wheels. PHEVs could have a charging socket and a small battery to get power. But the wheels are driven by an IC engine. Similarly, HEVs have a slight usage of electric components to increase fuel economy and efficiency but the vehicles use the power from the IC engine to move. However, EREVs use electric powertrain to drive the wheels and the IC engine supplies power to the battery only. You might also like: Ownership Experience of EVs More Tricky Than ICE Cars – Study Characteristics of EREVs Optimized Battery Size Since EREVs come equipped with an onboard charger, the need for an extensive battery pack is mitigated. Typically, EREVs feature a battery capacity of around 45 kWh or lesser, which is sufficient to provide a respectable electric-only driving range, surpassing that of many PHEVs. In some instances, EREVs can cover up to 200 kilometres solely on electric power. When the battery charge dwindles, drivers have two options: allow the generator to kick in or make a stop at a DC charger for a swift recharge. Self-Recharge Capability One remarkable aspect of EREVs is their ability to function as Electric Vehicles with the added benefit of self-recharging. With a substantial electric range, often exceeding the daily driving needs of many individuals, EREVs offer peace of mind for extended journeys or unforeseen circumstances where charging infrastructure might be scarce. Enhanced Power and Fun EREVs frequently outshine PHEVs in terms of power and performance. It’s not uncommon to encounter EREVs boasting electric power outputs of up to 300 kW. Their electric-only powertrains deliver a thrilling driving experience, characterized by instantaneous torque delivery. Moreover, EREVs offer a significantly greater electric-only driving range and can efficiently utilize DC fast chargers. You might also like: New 3D Technology Claims To Make EV Batteries Safer Limitations of EREVs While EREVs present a compelling electrified option, they are not without drawbacks. Currently, they tend to be available primarily as larger SUVs and crossovers, limiting their appeal to a specific vehicle segment. Whether this trend will shift in the future remains uncertain, pending greater popularity among consumers. One downside of early EREVs is their comparative fuel inefficiency when compared to the latest PHEVs. Additionally, recharging a vehicle’s battery through an onboard generator can be more expensive than utilizing external DC or AC chargers. Cost Considerations Constructing a small EREV presents unique challenges and can be more costly than developing a pure electric city car. EREVs are economically justifiable in larger vehicles with greater battery requirements. Space and Safety The internal combustion engine necessitates additional space within the vehicle, often at the expense of cargo capacity or trunk space. Safety ratings and implications in accidents also deserve attention when assessing EREVs. You might also like: Is Leasing EVs Cheaper Than ICE Cars? Learn Electric Cars Says In summary, Extended Range Electric Vehicles (EREVs) offer a distinctive take on electrified transportation. They combine electric motors with an internal combustion engine, but the engine serves solely as a generator. EREVs excel in providing a substantial electric-only range, self-recharge capability, and enhanced power. However, they are currently limited to larger vehicle segments, and maintenance concerns, cost considerations, and space issues remain. As automotive technology continues to evolve, EREVs may find their niche in a market that demands versatility and extended electric range. We hope that this post clarifies how EREVs are different from PHEVs, BEVs and HEVs.

Top 10 Best Accessories for Electric Cars in 2023

34 Comments / Featured / By LEC Team

Although aftermarket components are majorly similar for almost all cars but there are some specifics which might be more suitable for EVs. We have compiled a list of the top 10 best accessories for electric cars in 2023. As EVs gain widespread popularity for their environmental benefits, fuel efficiency, and enjoyable driving experiences, it’s crucial to explore the accessories that can elevate your EV journey. Whether you’re planning road trips or daily commutes, equipping your EV with the right accessories can make a significant difference. In this guide, we’ll highlight some of the best electric vehicle accessories for 2023 and offer valuable pointers to help you choose the ones that suit your lifestyle and budget. You might also like: Ownership Experience of EVs More Tricky Than ICE Cars – Study Best Accessories for Electric Cars You might also like: Is Leasing EVs Cheaper Than ICE Cars? These are just a few of the many great electric vehicle accessories available. With so many options to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect accessories to meet your needs and budget. Here are some additional tips for choosing the best electric vehicle accessories: You might also like: How to Prevent Effects of Extreme Hot & Cold Weather on EV Batteries? Learn Electric Cars Says With the right electric vehicle accessories, you can enhance your EV experience significantly. Explore the options available, keeping your lifestyle and budget in mind, and don’t forget to read reviews for guidance. Elevate your EV journey and make the most of the eco-friendly, fuel-efficient, and enjoyable ride that electric vehicles offer. Happy driving!

How to prevent EV batteries from hot and cold weather

How to Prevent Effects of Extreme Hot & Cold Weather on EV Batteries?

33 Comments / Battery / By LEC Team

There could be adverse effects of extreme hot and cold weather on EV batteries as Lithion-ion chemistry is temperature-dependent. There are numerous handy tips and tricks to prevent the adverse effects of extreme hot and cold weather on EV batteries. Electric vehicles have emerged as a promising solution for sustainable and eco-friendly transportation. However, one aspect of EV ownership that often raises questions is the impact of extreme weather conditions on their batteries. In this blog, we’ll delve into how both extreme heat and cold can affect EV batteries. Understanding these effects can help EV owners take steps to maximize battery life and performance. You might also like: New 3D Technology Claims To Make EV Batteries Safer Effects of Extreme Heat on EV Batteries Capacity Loss One of the primary concerns with extreme heat is the accelerated degradation of an EV battery’s capacity. When exposed to high temperatures for prolonged periods, the battery’s ability to hold a charge diminishes more rapidly. This means that over time, your EV may experience a noticeable reduction in its driving range. Reduced Lifespan Heat also shortens the overall lifespan of an EV battery. While EV manufacturers design batteries to withstand a wide range of temperatures, excessive heat can lead to premature ageing. This may result in the need for battery replacement sooner than expected, which can be a significant expense. Safety Concerns Extreme heat poses safety risks for EV batteries. It can lead to a phenomenon known as thermal runaway, where the battery becomes extremely hot and potentially combustible. Manufacturers implement safety measures to mitigate these risks, but it’s crucial for EV owners to avoid exposing their vehicles to extreme heat whenever possible. You might also like: Which is Better EV Battery Cooling System – Liquid or Air? You might also like: Top 5 Tips To Save / Earn Money From EV Charging Effects of Extreme Cold on EV Batteries Reduced Range In extremely cold weather, EV owners often notice a decrease in their vehicle’s driving range. The cold slows down the chemical reactions within the battery, reducing its efficiency. This means you’ll need to charge more frequently, especially during frigid winters, to cover the same distance. Slower Charging Charging an EV in very cold weather can be a slower process. The battery’s internal resistance increases in the cold, affecting the charging speed. EV owners may need to plan for longer charging times during winter months. Battery Wear While cold weather may not degrade the battery as quickly as extreme heat, it can still contribute to long-term wear and tear. Cold temperatures can increase the internal resistance of the battery, which may lead to gradual degradation over time. You might also like: 5 New EV Battery Technologies – Aluminium-ion to Niobium Mitigating the Effects of Hot & Cold Weather on EV Batteries Thermal Management Systems Many modern EVs come equipped with thermal management systems designed to regulate the temperature of the battery. These systems help maintain the battery within an optimal temperature range, mitigating the effects of extreme weather. Pre-Conditioning To counteract the impact of extreme temperatures, some EVs offer pre-conditioning features. This allows owners to warm up or cool down the battery before setting out on a journey. Pre-conditioning helps improve range and charging efficiency. Manufacturer Guidelines Following the manufacturer’s guidelines for operating your EV in extreme conditions is essential. They often provide recommendations for maintaining the battery’s health and performance in various weather scenarios. You might also like: Top Solid-State Battery Companies For EVs Learn Electric Cars Says Extreme weather conditions, whether scorching hot or freezing cold, can affect the performance and lifespan of EV batteries. Heat can lead to capacity loss, reduced battery lifespan, and safety concerns, while cold weather can result in reduced range, slower charging, and gradual battery wear. However, with proper precautions, such as using thermal management systems, pre-conditioning, and following manufacturer guidelines, EV owners can mitigate these effects and enjoy their eco-friendly vehicles year-round. Understanding how weather affects EV batteries is the first step toward maximizing their efficiency and longevity, making electric vehicles a reliable and sustainable choice for transportation, regardless of the climate.

Ownership Experience of EVs More Tricky Than ICE Cars – Study

29 Comments / Featured / By LEC Team

While there are cutting-edge technological features in modern EVs, they could be more prone to malfunction, as per a study by J.D. Power. Modern-day EVs could be trickier when it comes to the ownership experience in comparison to traditional ICE cars. While that might seem like a broad statement, there are dedicated studies which prove this. Popular firm, J. D. Power surveyed 82,472 car owners of 2023 model vehicles in the first 90 days of ownership. This was the basis of this survey. The results are quite surprising. You might also like: Is Leasing EVs Cheaper Than ICE Cars? Ownership Experience of EVs vs ICE Cars As per the J.D. Power 2023 U.S. Tech Experience Index (TXI) Study, this survey focused on the user experience with advanced vehicle technology and problems encountered by new car owners. Out of the 21 fancy features available in both electric cars (excluding Tesla) and traditional gas-powered cars, 17 of them have more issues for every 100 electric cars compared to gas cars. On top of that, people are less satisfied with electric cars when it comes to 86% of these advanced features compared to gas cars. Some features, like remote parking help (27.4 issues per 100 electric cars versus 10.7 issues per 100 gas cars) and controlling the car’s functions with hand gestures inside the car (49.6 issues per 100 electric cars versus 31.2 issues per 100 gas cars), show some of the biggest differences between these two types of cars. These research results are the same in both the J.D. Power 2023 Initial Quality StudySM (IQS) and the 2023 Automotive Performance, Execution, and Layout (APEAL) Study.SM In the IQS, there are 46% more issues with electric vehicles (excluding Tesla) compared to traditional gas vehicles. When it comes to the APEAL categories, people who own electric vehicles are less satisfied in nine out of ten categories compared to those who own gas vehicles. You might also like: Munro MK_1 is an Electric SUV with Traces of Land Rover Defender Other Key Findings of This Study New manufacturers like Tesla, Rivian, Lucid, and Polestar are impressing in the U.S. market with their advanced tech offerings, outpacing traditional manufacturers in innovation. However, they also face higher problem levels with advanced technologies compared to the industry average. Issues with Biometrics Biometric technologies that monitor behaviours (e.g., eye movement) are less problematic but annoying. Owners don’t find them very useful, with low desirability for future vehicles compared to other advanced technologies. Plug and Charge “Plug-and-charge” technology, which streamlines electric vehicle charging, is highly appreciated by owners, with 72% expressing a desire for it in their next vehicle. It’s generally well-implemented across manufacturers. ADAS Safety Features Usage of safety and advanced driver assist systems (ADAS) has slightly declined among owners, raising concerns about maintaining a positive customer experience and trust in these features, especially for technologies like reverse automatic emergency braking, safe exit assist, and automatic emergency steering. You might also like: Which is Better EV Battery Cooling System – Liquid or Air? Top Scoring Global Carmakers Genesis secures the top spot not only for innovation overall but also among premium brands, boasting an impressive score of 656. In the premium category, Cadillac and Lexus share the second position with identical scores of 533. In the realm of mass market brands, Hyundai takes the lead in innovation, scoring 547 points. Following closely, Kia secures the second position with a score of 528, while GMC secures the third spot with a score of 505. You might also like: New 3D Technology Claims To Make EV Batteries Safer Learn Electric Cars Says There is no doubt that the current electric cars come packed with the latest tech and connectivity features to the gills. However, there could also be a lot of issues with them. Firstly, the average car owner might not be open to so many new changes. People often struggle every time there is a new technology in any field. Secondly, with more electronics in the cars, there are chances of malfunctions. That is not just limited to automobiles. When the entire system depends on battery, electricity and electric cables, one can’t be certain about the behaviour in so many new environments. Nevertheless, with time, people will get more accustomed to using these features. Even the carmakers will come up with more robust hardware and software. It will, hopefully, be less prone to failure.

New 3D Technology to Make EV Batteries Safer

New 3D Technology Claims To Make EV Batteries Safer

32 Comments / Battery / By LEC Team

With the advent of extensive R&D in EV battery technology, new methods are being developed to address safety issues pertaining to EVs. It is becoming a trend for companies to keep devising modern methods leveraging technology to make EV batteries safer. In the last few years, many cases of terrible incidents regarding electric cars have surfaced. Unfortunately, most of these highlight some sort of battery issue as the root cause. With reports suggesting around 100 million EVs on roads worldwide by 2030, it becomes crucial to come up with solutions to make electric car batteries safer. Hence, battery companies are not just focusing on increasing range and reducing charging times, but also making them more resistant to fire and thermal runaway. We know that the latter is the biggest cause of worry. Once an EV battery catches fire, it is excruciatingly difficult to douse it. The reason is the availability of toxic and explosive chemicals in the battery construction itself. Essentially, that is a constant fuel to keep the fire going. As a result, we have had situations where the batteries kept burning for upto 48-72 hours. You might also like: Which is Better EV Battery Cooling System – Liquid or Air? You might also like: Top 5 Tips To Save / Earn Money From EV Charging 3D Thermal Barriers Technology to Make EV Batteries Safer Freudenberg Sealing Technologies, a tech company, has introduced an advanced solution to address a critical concern in the rapidly growing field of electric vehicles (EVs). The company has developed 3D thermal barriers aimed at mitigating the risk of thermal runaway in high-energy-density lithium-ion batteries, which are becoming increasingly common in modern EVs. You might also like: 5 New EV Battery Technologies – Aluminium-ion to Niobium The 3D thermal barriers mark a departure from conventional two-dimensional options like flat mats and thermal blankets. These barriers are custom, flexible, and can fit in various positions within the battery structure, allowing for easy integration of additional components. The novel 3D geometries come from injection moulding and continuous extrusion. This adaptability also offers a noteworthy advantage – the resulting intricate 3D geometries are lightweight and exert minimal impact on the overall battery weight. Freudenberg makes heat-resistant, electrical, and thermal insulating materials. Thorough in-house testing demonstrates that these materials can endure temperatures of up to 1,200°C. This resilience is due to the specific composition of the compounded polymers This renders them impervious to both extreme heat and particle impacts, such as those that occur during cell venting. The 3D thermal barriers use elastomer solutions in solid and foam forms. Additionally, they can also be plastic components like Quantix Ultra® for intricate geometric patterns. You might also like: Top Solid-State Battery Companies For EVs Learn Electric Cars Says There are new EV technologies coming about quite frequently. That is normal with so much research going on about EV batteries in various parts of the world. This may just be one of many potent ways to make EV batteries safer. With time, we expect more such breakthroughs which will have safety at its core. Not to mention, longer range and shorter charging times will still be the main parameters while designing new solutions.

Is Leasing EVs Cheaper Than ICE Cars?

31 Comments / Featured / By LEC Team

Potential car buyers today often struggle with the question of whether leasing EVs could turn out to be cheaper than ICE cars. We shall try to weigh the pros and cons of this practice which is still at its nascent stage in the EV space. In recent years, the automotive industry has witnessed a significant shift towards sustainability, with electric vehicles (EVs) emerging as a promising alternative to traditional petrol-powered cars. As the automotive world strives to reduce its carbon footprint, consumers are increasingly considering the financial implications of transitioning to electric cars, especially when it comes to leasing options. This article delves into the question – Is leasing an electric car truly cheaper than leasing a petrol car? By examining cost factors, incentives, and long-term savings, we can paint a clearer picture of the financial landscape of these two options. You might also like: 5 New EV Battery Technologies – Aluminium-ion to Niobium Initial Cost Comparison: EVs vs Petrol Cars At the outset, the price tags of electric cars might seem higher than those of their petrol counterparts. However, this scenario is rapidly changing due to advancements in battery technology and economies of scale in EV production. Statistics reveal that the average upfront cost of an electric car has been steadily decreasing, and this trend is expected to continue as technology matures and production becomes more efficient. Additionally, numerous governments around the world offer incentives such as tax credits, rebates, and grants to encourage EV adoption. These incentives significantly narrow the price gap between leasing an electric car and a petrol car. You might also like: Top 5 Tips To Save / Earn Money From EV Charging Operational Savings: Fuel and Maintenance One of the most compelling arguments in favour of leasing an electric car is the lower operational cost over the vehicle’s lifetime. Unlike petrol cars that rely on expensive fossil fuels, electric cars are powered by electricity, which tends to be cheaper per mile. According to recent studies, the cost of electricity required to cover the same distance as a gallon of petrol can be as low as half the price. This translates to substantial savings, particularly for those who commute long distances. Moreover, the maintenance of electric cars is generally more affordable compared to traditional vehicles. EVs have fewer moving parts, resulting in fewer components that can wear out or break down. This reduced mechanical complexity leads to fewer visits to the repair shop and lower maintenance expenses. As a result, leasing an electric car can potentially save lessees a significant amount over the leasing period. You might also like: How Larger Tires Affect EV Range and Performance Depreciation and Resale Value Depreciation is a crucial factor to consider when comparing the total cost of leasing an electric car versus a petrol car. Electric cars, despite their initial higher costs, often depreciate at a slower rate than petrol cars. This is due in part to the growing demand for sustainable transportation and the continuous improvement of EV technology. A study conducted by the automotive research firm, Kelley Blue Book, found that certain electric cars retained their value better than their petrol counterparts over a five-year period. This means that when the leasing term ends, an electric car might hold its value better, potentially leading to a more favourable resale or trade-in value. You might also like: Which is Better EV Battery Cooling System – Liquid or Air? Learn Electric Cars Says The balance is shifting towards electric vehicles (EVs) when comparing their leasing with petrol cars. Though upfront costs remain a concern, incentives, operational savings, and long-term advantages compensate. Increasingly affordable EV technology appeals to budget-conscious buyers. Leasing EVs becomes a financially sound option due to operational savings, reduced maintenance, and potential for better resale value. Adopting EVs for a greener future has strong financial implications. It’s about emissions reduction and wise money choices. As governments promote green transport and automakers invest in innovation, EV leasing costs will likely decrease. Environmentally aware consumers seeking savings are finding the choice clearer: the electric path offers not just intentions but financial benefits too. This should help you make up your mind regarding whether leasing EVs is cheaper than ICE cars.

Munro MK_1 is an Electric SUV with Traces of Land Rover Defender

30 Comments / EV News / By LEC Team

The electric era of rugged off-roading SUVs has commenced as we are getting new-age capable EVs. The Munro MK_1 is an electric SUV that would instantly remind you of the original Land Rover Defender. The latter is one of the most iconic SUVs ever built. Munro is a Scottish carmaker. The MK_1 has been designed, engineered and built in Scotland. It is a sturdy EV that focuses purely on hardcore off-roading abilities. In addition, its silhouette resembles the OG Defender from back in the day. You might also like: Volvo EX30 SUV Revealed As One of The Most Powerful Volvos Ever You might also like: Avatr 11 Electric Crossover SUV Can Do 100 km/h in Under 4 secs Munro MK_1 Electric SUV – Specs It is offered in three trims – Utility, Range and Performance. All these have a dual-motor 4×4 setup as standard. The Utility has a 56.3 kWh (usable) battery and 204 km (127 mi) range, while the Range and Performance have a 75.8 kWh (usable) battery and 275 km (171 mi) range. These batteries have Lithium Nickel Manganese Cobalt Oxide cell chemistry and locking front and rear differentials. The max power and torque figures range from 295 hp – 375 hp and 600 Nm (443 lb-ft) – 700 Nm (516 lb-ft) respectively. The acceleration from 0-60 mph (96 km/h) takes 4.9 secs in the top variant. The maximum payload is 1,000 kg for all trims and the maximum towing capacity is 2,500 kg (Utility) and 3,500 kg (Range and Performance). Its bigger battery takes 36 mins to charge from 15-80% via 100 kW DC charger. The approach, ramp and departure angles are 84°, 148° and 51° respectively and the ground clearance is a colossal 480 mm (18.9 in). It has steel wheels with standard all-terrain tyres and a water-wading capacity of 800 mm. Munro MK_1 Electric SUV Specs Battery (usable) 56.3 & 75.8 kWh Drivetrain 4×4 Range 127 mi – 171 mi Range 204 km – 275 km Power 295 hp – 375 hp Torque 600 Nm – 700 Nm DC Rapid Charging 36 mins (15-80%) Acceleration (0-96 km/h) 4.9 secs – 7.6 secs Specs You might also like: How Larger Tires Affect EV Range and Performance Off-Roading and Storage The Munro MK_1 has a cavernous 1,600 litres (56.5 cu ft) loading compartment which can essentially carry just about everything you would need on long off-roading excursions. Parameters Dimensions Approach Angle 84° Ramp (Break-over) Angle 148° Departure Angle 51° Ground Clearance 480 mm (18.9 in) Water Wading 800 mm Boot Volume 1,600 litres (56.5 cu ft) Off-Roading and Storage You might also like: Are Repair Costs of Electric Cars Lower Than Petrol & Diesel Cars? Munro MK_1 Electric SUV – Features and Price Since the sole focus of the Munro MK_1 is utility, there are absolutely basic features including heated seats, heated windscreen, climate control with heat pump, LED cabin lights, household power outlets, USB-C ports, dust and waterproof switchgear, aluminium plates for the dashboard and parts of doors which are durable and easy to replace. You might also like: Top 5 Tips To Save / Earn Money From EV Charging The deliveries will commence next year (2024) and the prices for the three variants are £59,994, £71,994 and £83,994 respectively. That prices are inclusive of VAT and the bookings can be made for a £1,000 token amount.

Types of EV Battery Cooling Systems Liquid or Air

Which is Better EV Battery Cooling System – Liquid or Air?

22 Comments / Battery / By LEC Team

For achieving high thermal efficiency, EV batteries are needed to be kept within the optimal operating temperatures which is why the cooling systems for electric car batteries are critical. Liquid or air cooling system is the most widely used technique to keep an EV battery within the optimal thermal range. Lithium-ion batteries are influenced by temperatures a lot. In fact, that is a major drawback of these types of batteries. But these are energy dense, lightweight, relatively affordable and capable of fast charging, which is why these are mostly used in EVs today. However, an efficient thermal management system needs to be in place to keep the cells from getting too hot or cold to ensure a stable and maximum range and performance. You might also like: Top 5 Tips To Save / Earn Money From EV Charging You might also like: Mercedes Electric G-Wagon (EQG) to Get Silicon Battery Material Liquid vs Air EV Battery Cooling System Liquid EV Battery Cooling System There are two types of liquid battery cooling methods – Direct and Indirect. In a direct liquid cooling mechanism, the battery cells are in direct contact with the coolant. For this to work, the coolant needs to have low to no conductivity. However, there is still intensive R&D going on about this which is why we don’t see it in EVs at the moment. Indirect cooling is something that we have got accustomed to even in traditional internal combustion engines. It consists of thin metal pipes that are placed right next to the battery surface. The heat generated during discharging (when the car in is motion) is absorbed by the coolant (generally glycol or polyglycol) running in these metal pipes via conduction. As a result, the excess heat is taken away by the coolant and it recirculates over and over again. This is the most common method used to control the temperatures of EV batteries today. You might also like: 5 New EV Battery Technologies – Aluminium-ion to Niobium Air EV Battery Cooling System As the name suggests, air cooling systems use the principle of convection instead of conduction for heat transfer. The air circulates around the hot battery and absorbs the heat emitted by it. Needless to mention, this is quite an inefficient way to manage thermal balance. There were some earlier budget EVs that used to have this mechanism, but eventually, carmakers moved to liquid cooling systems. Other Types of Battery Cooling Systems There is also the fin cooling system that is used in many electrical appliances. You must’ve seen fans and cooling setups with thin fins. The principle used in this setup is also convection. These fins have high thermal conductivity which ensures that they absorb the heat. But installing fins inside the vehicles requires additional space and weight. Those are undesirable aspects in modern cars where packing efficiency is critical to liberating the maximum space for the passengers. Finally, there are also Phase Change Materials (PCM) which absorb heat and change from solid to liquid. As one would imagine, the reason why they are not used in vehicles is because of the change in volume. When matter changes forms, there is a change in volume as well. For instance, ice melts to form water. Ice needs compact space while the same amount of water needs more space in liquid form. This property of PCMs renders them useless for automobile applications. You might also like: Top Solid-State Battery Companies For EVs Learn Electric Cars Says In inference, due to the heat transfer capabilities of liquid cooling systems, these are much better than air cooling systems for EV battery cooling. Sure, there can be issues with the liquid cooling systems like leakage. But this system is designed in such a way that it doesn’t happen. In case it still transpires, it is ensured that the passengers remain safe. As far as corrosion is concerned, additives are added to the coolant to ensure great protection against any such issues.

LEC Team

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