Everything about Battery Electric Vehicles and Their Pros & Cons

The 21st century is known to be the base for a sustainable future. It is the time when people are looking for alternate measures and ways of living life with equal focus on eco-friendliness, sustainability, and cost-saving. 

When it comes to sustainability and reducing carbon emissions, the first thing that comes to your mind is battery electric vehicles or battery electric cars. Electric vehicles use batteries to run or operate and eliminate the use of petrol or diesel. 

Here is a complete guide on battery electric vehicles, their components, workings, and other crucial details. 

There are various models of electric vehicles, and the components of these vehicles differ significantly. However, the main components of any battery electric cars or vehicles are listed hereunder. 

Battery

The powerhouse or soul of all electric vehicles is the traction battery pack. This pack is a collection of individual cells that store electrical energy. Without any charge or battery, an electric vehicle cannot work. 

Similar to the fuel required in normal vehicles, the battery is an integral part of a BEV operation. It acts as an energy storage system and provides direct current to further parts, including the power inverter. 

The electric vehicles use rechargeable batteries, signifying regular charging to maintain. Electric cars or vehicles typically use lithium-ion batteries due to their affordability and high-energy transmission. 

Power Inverter

The traction battery pack generates direct current and passes it to the inverter for current conversion. This component converts DC into AC (Alternate Current). 

As a result, it acts as a driving force to start the engine or motor. Inverter is also beneficial during regenerative braking. There are various categories of power inverters, such as single-phase and three-phase inverters, each with its own advantages and considerations.

Controller

Along with the inverter, the controller plays a crucial role in starting the electric motor. This part of any AEV is used to maintain and control the distribution of electrical energy to electric motors. 

EVs' voltage and energy requirements differ; thus, the controller is crucial in determining the motor speed. The energy distribution depends widely on voltage variation. 

Electric Traction Motors

This component pushes the vehicle's wheel through the electric power provided by the battery. Nowadays, many battery electric cars have both propulsion and regenerative functions. 

Charger

You will be required to charge your vehicle batteries regularly to keep your vehicle in running condition. There are various types of chargers, varying in charging speeds, quality, etc. These chargers obtain energy from external sources. You can get an on-board charger (fit in the car) and an off-board charger (not fitted in the vehicle). 

There are several other parts present in battery electric cars. These are: 

• Transmission: This part utilises mechanical power to provide motion to the wheels. 
• DC Converter: The DC converter regulates the voltage and converts high-voltage power to lower power. It helps run numerous vehicle parts and accessories. 
• Auxiliary Battery: This battery is used to operate the different AEV accessories. 
• Thermal System: As the name suggests, this part acts as a cooling system or temperature regulator in various components of the battery electric car. 
• Charge Port: Similar to everyday battery-powered devices, this component allows the vehicle battery to charge and get the necessary power supply from external sources.

After looking at the components, understand how these components work to run the vehicle. 

1. When you press the car pedal or put your foot on the accelerator, the batteries activate to charge the controller. At the same time, the power inverter converts the direct current to an alternate current. 
2. The controller distributes the energy and sends the energy to the motor through the inverter.  
3. Then, the electric motor provides transmission to the vehicle wheels by changing electrical energy to mechanical energy.
4. The rotation of the motor provides the kickstart movement to the vehicle; in this way, a battery-electric car starts. 

The demand for BEVs and AEVs is growing due to the various irreplaceable and attractive advantages. The following points highlight the most common merits of electric vehicles. 

Reduced Carbon Footprints

The most remarkable highlight of any electric vehicle is its zero Carbon Dioxide emissions. Unlike petrol and diesel, BEVs do not contribute to pollution or degrade the environment. This significant environmental benefit should inspire and motivate you to consider BEVs as an excellent eco-friendly transportation option. 

As a result, it lowers your carbon footprint and proves to be an excellent eco-friendly transportation option. So, next time you think about BEVs, think about the impressive air quality.  

Lower Maintenance Requirements

Since the vehicles have a few moving and detachable parts, they require lower maintenance than regular fuel-powered vehicles. This translates to lower annual running and servicing costs, making you feel financially savvy and responsible when choosing these vehicles. 

Speedy Acceleration

Electric-powered cars are top-notch when it comes to the performance and acceleration. They offer a smooth transition and firm control while driving, eliminating the need to shift gears. This exciting performance should intrigue you and make you consider BEVs as a better option in terms of performance. 

Low Noise

No engine is found in these types of vehicles. As a result, there is no noise pollution while you drive any electric-powered vehicle. The electric motor works so silently that you cannot even feel the motor has started. Even roadside pedestrians cannot feel an AEV or BEV approaching them. 

Attracts State Incentives

Many states and countries have started providing incentives and rewards to promote using AEVs and BEVs. For example, you can attract tax benefits and incentives from the government when purchasing or registering your electric vehicle. 

It would help if you did not miss out on certain limitations of these electric-powered vehicles while buying an electric car. Have a look at these demerits-

Time-consuming Search for Charging Stations

Your electric car battery needs to be charged regularly to function properly. You can charge the battery at home, public stations, or office. You will need to find a charging station first and then get your vehicle battery charged for some hours. Finding a charging station is a difficult and time-consuming process, reflecting the need for charging infrastructure. 

Limited Driving Range

The frequency of charging is significantly high in AEVs and BEVS as compared to the frequency of filling petrol or diesel in conventional vehicles. 

In other words, an average petrol or diesel tank can cover 500 to 700 miles, whereas a one-time battery charge can only cover around 250 or 300 miles. Therefore, the limited driving range of electric vehicles is a point of concern. 

Frequent Battery Replacement

If you use your car daily, you might replace your car batteries more often. A battery has a lifespan of around 10 to 18 years, with many batteries ending in 8 to 10 years. Battery replacement depends on the car model, driving habits, and how you maintain it.

Long Charging Time

Old models can take a lot of time to charge their batteries. On average, an electric car takes 4 to 6 hours to charge. This time duration can significantly vary if you use a 22kW charger. On the other hand, it takes hardly 5 minutes to fuel your petrol or diesel tank. 

High Initial Purchase Costs

Electric cars fall in the category of expensive vehicles. The initial purchase cost of these vehicles makes it difficult for many people. The price of BEVs and AEVs is high due to high battery costs, manufacturing expenses, chagrin costs, expensive technology, etc. 

Decades have passed, and the evolution of battery-electric vehicles has been impressive. The high-quality materials used and excellent performance delivery are the major reasons for BEVs' growing popularity. Do not wait for the last moment; research your AEV and get one to contribute to a sustainable future.