SEPTEMBER 2024Autobusiness outlook8IN MY OPINIONTHE BEST WAY TO IMPROVE EV COMFORT, RANGE AND SUSTAINABILITYAs electric vehicle driving range continues to improve, more drivers feel comfortable taking to the road in electric vehicles (EVs). Most new EVs can travel more than 250 mileson a single charge, with some reaching greater than 350 miles of range. Factors such as road conditions, driving style, vehicle load and ambient temperature can affect actual range performance. Automakers are responding to quickly increasing consumer demand for electric vehicles by introducing many new models in all segments in the United States and Europe. With every new model introduction, carmakers are looking for ways to improve the driving range of their vehicles and reduce range anxiety so that more consumers will buy their EV offerings.Charging away from home has become more accessible, with fast-charging Level 3 stations now available at many highway rest stops, malls, restaurants and markets, but research continues to show that "range anxiety" is still among the top reasons consumers hesitate in making the switch to EVs.Batteries themselves have been a primary focus for improving performance as well. Now, as EV makers continue their effortsto reduce the battery power drain that can happen while driving, they're looking for solutions to most effectively cool and heat cabins, motors and batteries--a particular challenge for EV makers. A Thermal Management System is a Practical Solution for EVs Estimates are that 52 percent of the new cars sold in the United States by 2030 will be EVs. As a result, automakers are working furiously to introduce appealing, cost-effective new EV models in every segment including subcompact cars and sport utility vehicles (SUVs). Size, equipment and price points vary greatly from one model to another, but all EVs face a common challenge--finding ways to extend the driving range. Internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles typically cool the passenger cabin with a belt driven compressor and other heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) components that enable a refrigerant to absorb heat from the passenger cabin as it moves between a liquid and gaseous state, creating a cooling effect. The compressor is powered by the engine. When temperatures drop in the fall and winter, the vehicle uses recovered heat from the engine to heat the cabin.Since EVs do not have internal combustion engines, they need another way to power the air conditioning compressor and generate heat in winter. Electric compressors and electric heaters draw power from the EV's main battery pack which impacts the vehicle's range.Extreme temperatures can wreak havoc on EV batteries, making thermal management critical. Batteries operate most efficiently when the mercury is between 68°F and 95°F(20°C and By Rick Winick, Vice President and General Manager - Automotive Refrigerants, HoneywellRick Winick
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