Imperial College leads EU-project to develop lightweight energy storage solution for EVs
Thu 17 October 2013
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Partners in an EU-funded project have developed a new concept for lightweight structural energy storage components in electric vehicles which could help reduce the weight, size and high cost of conventional batteries in current hybrid and electric cars.
The project - in which Volvo was the only car manufacturer - was headed by Imperial College, included nine other major participants and took place over 3.5 years. The outcome is now realised in the form of car panels in a Volvo S80 experimental car.
The new concept consists of a material made from carbon fibres and polymer resin, nano structured batteries and super capacitors which, according to Volvo, require less space, are cost effective in terms of structure and eco-friendly. The reinforced carbon fibres sandwich the new battery and are moulded to fit the car’s frame, such as door panels, the boot lid and the wheel bowl – this allows them to replace existing components whilst also storing and charging energy.
The material is recharged through the use of brake energy regeneration in the car or by plugging into a mains socket. The energy is then transferred to the electric motor and discharged as it is used by the car. Tests show that the material not only charges and stores energy more efficiently than a conventional battery but is also strong and pliant.
It is thought that completely substituting an electric car’s existing components could reduce the overall weight by more than 15% providing significant benefits in terms of cost as well as the impact on the environment.
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