To reduce harmful carbon emissions, countries around the world are setting ambitious targets to phase out gasoline and diesel cars. While the majority of European countries have chosen 2035 as a deadline, India is aiming for a complete phase out by 2030, and in the USA, a proposal has been made to replace every gas powered car with an electric one by 2040. Advancing technology is already redefining the way cars are run, with conventional engines replaced with increasingly popular electric and hybrid energy systems. For cars powered by lead acid batteries, new alternative biofuels offer the ability to reduce emissions. No matter which energy system is in place, all have to keep up with the demands of an increase in energy-intensive high-end electronics.
Batteries For Demanding Electricals
Although electric and hybrid vehicles are growing in popularity, the majority of cars on the road are still fueled by petrol and diesel. As a more sustainable alternative, biofuels made from organic materials can be used to run a conventional car engine and charge its battery without modification. Whichever fuel is chosen to power a car, an increase in modern electrical features can put a strain on traditional lead acid batteries. Security systems and clock presets are running constantly, and high performance audio equipment can be demanding. However, as electronic technology has advanced, so has battery design, and reliable, longer lasting batteries are easily able to provide enough power for high end technology.
Boosting Charge In Electric Vehicles
Sales of electric vehicles are increasing, but battery capacity and the limited distance a car can travel before being recharged is still a concern for some consumers. Quick and convenient charging is essential for the uptake of EVs, and scientists have been working to address this issue. New battery technology could mean that just 10 minutes of charging could provide enough power for a 200 mile journey. To boost battery charge further, several manufacturers are now fitting silicon solar panels to a car roof. Although not sufficient to run the engine, the extra power is useful for operating heating and cooling systems and other additional features, such as infotainment systems or safety technology.
Hydraulic Hybrids Improve Fuel Economy
To overcome problems with charging, many people choose hybrid vehicles that use both fuel and electric. However the development of another type of hybrid vehicle has removed the need for a battery altogether. In the US, the Environmental Protection Agency helped to create a unique and highly efficient hybrid that uses a hydraulic system to capture, reuse and store braking energy in order to power the vehicle. This regenerative braking system results in improved fuel economy and a reduction in harmful emissions,
Advances in vehicle technology are adding features to cars that demand a reliable source of electricity no matter how they are powered. This is increasingly via more environmentally and sustainable energy sources which will help countries meet ambitious targets to lower carbon emissions in the future.
