New tech to improve EV range

A new system has been developed that estimates the weight of a vehicle and adjusts performance accordingly, meaning drivers could get much more out of their electric light commercial vehicles.

Using acceleration sensors, gross weight is estimated through Newton’s law of acceleration. In short, the less mass and more energy put on matter, the faster speed it moves. So, when pushing an object at a constant speed, the weight of the object can be calculated depending on its acceleration rate. 

Through this process, the vehicle estimates the distance it can drive and adjusts its maximum torque output. Specifically, the potential vehicle range estimate is based on the accurate measurement of the current weight and speed of the vehicle, enhancing efficiency for commercial use. 

For example, when the vehicle is carrying a heavy load, the vehicle automatically informs the driver of the estimated drive range to secure sufficient battery life to reach the destination safely. 

Developed by Hyundai Motor Group and claimed to be a world first, the technology could be used on future light duty electric commercial vehicles. 

The new technology also allows for changes in torque output based on topography, altering the amount of torque needed to propel a vehicle uphill based on its gross weight and allowing small business owners to effectively reduce unnecessary vehicle-related costs. 

Chae Mo Yang, group leader of eco-technology performance development group, said, ‘Hyundai developed this technology because we realise that we need to take a different approach when it comes to developing electric vehicles for commercial use. We are preparing for a future where we will be able to offer commercial EVs that operate at its optimum specifications under any given road condition and regardless of how much payload it is carrying. These vehicles will be very economical to operate.’