July 19, 2024

Five technologies that will change electric mobility

The five technologies that will change electric mobility

Index

  • Solid-state batteries
  • Wireless charging
  • Artificial intelligence for electric mobility
  • Lighter and more advanced materials
  • Ultra-rapid charging infrastructure

Electric mobility is rapidly evolving, transforming the way the entire world of transportation. With innovation constantly advancing, several emerging technologies promise to further revolutionize the industry.

In recent years, increased environmental awareness, stricter government regulations and rapid technological progress have accelerated the adoption of electric cars.

However, while electric vehicles are becoming more common on the roads, there are still many challenges to making them a mass choice. Battery range, charging times, charging infrastructure, and manufacturing costs are just some of the issues that continue to make many people dubious about this issue.

We at Powy have identified in this article five disruptive future innovations that will further transform the electric mobility industry. The innovations we are about to explore could improve the efficiency and reliability of electric vehicles, making the driving experience more convenient and enjoyable for users.

From more advanced batteries to next-generation charging infrastructure, these technologies could help overcome some limitations, paving the way for a future in which electric vehicles may become the norm rather than the exception. 

1. Solid-state batteries

Battery research is in perpetual turmoil to create more efficient products and reduce the use of expensive raw materials, as detailed in several studies and articles, such as this analysis by Motus-E. In this context, solid-state batteries represent one of the most promising innovations in the field of electric mobility. Unlike most related technologies using a liquid electrolyte, these batteries use a solid electrolyte, offering numerous advantages.

Solid-state batteries provide greater energy density, enabling longer vehicle range due to their ability to store more energy than conventional lithium-ion batteries. This could allow longer trips to be planned without the need for frequent recharging, making electric vehicles more practical for daily use and long trips.

They also ensure greater safety as they are less prone to fire and explosion hazards, improving the overall safety of the vehicle. In fact, solid-state batteries do not contain flammable liquid electrolytes, reducing the risk of overheating and possible fire.

Finally, such batteries promise less deterioration over time than current standards, reducing the need for frequent replacement: the chemical stability of these batteries makes them less prone to degradation, increasing their useful life.

Solid-state batteries are currently moving from the research and development stages to commercial production, with several car companies planning to introduce them in their vehicles within the next decade. Companies such as Toyota and BMW are investing heavily in this technology, seeing it as the future of electric mobility.

2. Wireless charging

Wireless charging for electric cars is another technology set to transform the way we charge our vehicles. This system allows batteries to be recharged without the use of cables, through electromagnetic induction. 

By eliminating the need to physically connect the vehicle to a charging station, wireless charging offers a more convenient and easy solution for many people. If implemented, such a solution would allow electric vehicle owners to charge their cars simply by parking over a wireless charger.

To work, wireless charging would have to be integrated directly into streets and parking lots, facilitating vehicle charging while parked. This technology could also be used to recharge moving vehicles, such as in the case of electric buses, which could be recharged during passenger boarding and alighting stops.

Although there are still technical and infrastructure challenges to overcome, wireless charging is gaining ground. For example, in the city of Detroit, Electreon, unveiled the first public street in the United States with electric vehicle charging. Electreon's technology charges electric vehicles as they cross, via charging systems embedded in the road surface.

3. Artificial intelligence and machine learning for electric mobility

Artificial intelligence and machine learning are revolutionizing many industries, and electric mobility is no exception. These technologies, already present in several vehicles, promise to further optimize many aspects of electric cars and motorcycles and their support systems.

First, advanced algorithms can monitor and manage the status of batteries, improving efficiency and longevity. For example, AI can predict when a battery needs maintenance or recharging, optimizing usage and reducing operating costs.

In addition, AI is critical to the development of self-driving vehicles, which could reduce energy consumption by optimizing routes and improving road safety. Autonomous vehicles can coordinate with each other to avoid traffic and accidents, making transportation more efficient and safer.

Finally, machine learning can predict and prevent breakdowns, reducing maintenance costs and increasing the reliability of cars. Advanced sensors and data analysis algorithms can identify potential problems before they occur, increasing vehicle life.

The applications of AI in electric mobility are vast and expanding. Companies such as Tesla are already using AI to improve the performance and reliability of their electric vehicles, and the future promises further innovations in this field.

4. Lighter and more advanced materials

The use of lightweight and innovative materials may significantly improve the energy efficiency and performance of electric vehicles of the future. Materials such as carbon fiber, high-strength aluminum, and advanced composites can reduce the weight of vehicles without compromising safety. A lighter vehicle requires less energy to move, which translates into greater range and reduced costs.

Carbon fiber, for example, is five times stronger and twice as stiff as steel while weighing significantly less. This material is already used in some luxury sports cars and racing vehicles, but it is also beginning to find application in consumer electric vehicles. However, the high cost of carbon fiber poses a challenge for its large-scale adoption. Research and development are trying to find ways to reduce production costs by making this material more affordable.

Another promising innovation is the use of advanced composite materials, which combine two or more materials to achieve superior properties. For example, polymer matrix composites can be reinforced with glass or carbon fibers to improve strength and stiffness without increasing weight. These materials can be molded into complex shapes, enabling more flexible and innovative electric vehicle designs.

5. Infrastructure for rapid and ultra-rapid charging.

Ultra-rapid charging infrastructure is crucial to the mass adoption of electric vehicles. These charging stations can recharge a vehicle in a matter of minutes, greatly reducing the time needed to charge compared to conventional stations. 

With significantly reduced charging times, users can use electric vehicles more conveniently and quickly, achievingrefueling timessimilar to those of combustion cars. This could make electric vehicles amore attractive option for a wider range of users.

In addition, ultra-fast charging stations make long-distance travel more feasible, alleviating one of the main concerns of electric vehicle users. These stations can be installed along highways and other strategic locations, facilitating long trips without the worry of finding a charging station.

Companies are investing hugely in the development of this infrastructure. For example, the charging network of Powy is expanding day by day with new charging points offering different powers, including infrastructure that exceeds 150 kW, providing an affordable and state-of-the-art charging experience.

The future of electric mobility

Electric mobility is set to change dramatically in the coming years thanks to innovative technologies. Solid-state batteries, wireless charging, artificial intelligence, hydrogen fuel cell vehicles and ultrafast charging infrastructure are just some of the innovations that lie ahead, according to experts. These developments will not only improve the user experience, but also contribute to a more sustainable and energy-efficient future.

We at Powy support innovation in electric mobility by installing and operating the charging infrastructure-delivering 100 percent renewable energy-that is needed for the present and future of EV drivers. Favorable policies, investment in research and development, and the creation of appropriate infrastructure will be crucial to realizing the full potential of electric mobility worldwide.With a collective effort, we can envision a future in which EVs will not only be commonplace, but will be at the heart of a sustainable and innovative transportation system.