As automakers and scientists work toward finding environmentally sound alternatives to cars that use fossil fuels, electric vehicles have emerged as a potential solution. However, several different technologies must all work together in order to make electric cars practical and affordable on a large scale.
One of the most important technologies in any electric vehicle is the battery pack. Batteries in an electric car must be light enough and small enough to make the car practically efficient, while also holding enough energy to give the vehicle a reasonable driving range before needing recharging. The transition from cadmium-based batteries to modern lithium-ion batteries makes electric vehicles more feasible.
Another technology that electric cars need is a stable infrastructure of electrical distribution. Drivers who live in remote areas need access to large amounts of electricity, while cities and towns that are part of the electric grid must allow for additional demand when drivers begin to plug in electric cars on a regular basis.
Electric motors couple with the battery packs in electric cars to replace the conventional internal combustion drivetrain While batteries take the place of a fuel tank, powerful electric motors replace the internal combustion engine and exhaust system. These motors use electromagnetism to turn electricity into mechanical energy that passes through a transmission and turns the vehicle's wheels. Electric motors for cars are powerful enough to sustaining highway speeds and durable enough to last for many years.
Materials science is another contributor to the technology behind electric cars. While plastics have been giving automakers a low-cost, lightweight alternative to metal components for decades, additional materials like aluminum alloy, fiberglass and carbon fiber offer light, durable materials for car frames, bodies and accessories. Lighter cars require less energy to drive, especially during acceleration.
For electric cars to be a practical transportation solution, owners need access to fast-charging stations. While some electric cars can charge from a standard household outlet, this can be time-consuming. Charging stations can be installed in the home using high-capacity power lines. They store large amounts of electricity and can fill the car's batteries more quickly, making it easy to recharge throughout the day.
