Electric cars are rapidly gaining traction in the global automotive industry. The credit goes to the advances in battery technology. And, of course, there are growing environmental concerns. They offer a cleaner alternative to traditional petrol and diesel vehicles. It reduces greenhouse gas emissions.
Major automakers and new startups are expanding their electric vehicle (EV) projects. But, the government must support and try to increase the charging infrastructure.
As technology improves, EVs become more affordable and practical, increasing adoption worldwide. No doubt, there are challenges such as charging network and battery disposal.
However, the shifting towards electric cars will be a step towards easy transportation and a greener future. This car will have zero emissions of carbon dioxide and nitrous oxide.
Pranav Dandekar and his father Prakash Dandekar had a unique dream of developing a compact two-sitter electric motor car. Pranav is a software engineer, whereas his father is a mechanic. Their innovative idea will bring a revolution in EVs.
His friends suggested designing a micro-car equivalent to that of a motorcycle, which will require less parking space and should be much safer than the bike.
The problem of parking vehicles in the cities is increasing day by day. Hence, such micro-cars will be much more suitable for people.
They are to launch the car ‘Robin’ next year by the company ‘Wings EV’–a start-up based in Indore.
The experiment
They purchased a tricycle and fitted a motor battery and a microcontroller. From this experiment, they got the idea that a four-wheeler electric car is possible, just like the electric tricycle.
Thus, they designed a model which cleared rigorous tests of the Research Association of India- ‘ARAI.’
They claim that there are all the essential features of a car in it. This includes seat belts, steering breaks, headlamps, tail lamps and an air conditioner system. In addition, there are no clutches and it is comfortable for drivers.
When people travel to their office in a car, they are alone. All the four seats are vacant. In this ‘Robin’ there will be only two seats, just like a motorbike, but with the comfort of a car.
‘Robin’ will be useful for a stay-at-home parent shopping and picking up children from school. This will also prove to be of use for women and older adults. The interesting feature is, it will cost Rs. 1 to 2 per Km and the price of the car will be around 2 lakh.
In addition, they have equipped all mechanical and electrical functions of the car with a technology similar to the ‘fly-by-wire’ system used in modern aircraft.
Solar Cars
Solar cars offer significant advantages.
These include reduced greenhouse gas emissions, lower operational costs, and decreased dependence on fossil fuels. Their use of renewable energy sources can lead to cleaner air and less environmental impact.
However, solar cars also have some disadvantages. They have high production costs, lower energy storage efficiency, and dependence on sunlight. Their effectiveness in cloudy or nighttime conditions decreases. The facilities for charging stations are still underdeveloped.
There must be a focus on advancing solar car technology and making it a viable mainstream option. Scientists must work to find more ways to trap the sun’s energy and store it efficiently.
As of 2024, several notable solar car models are pushing the boundaries of this technology:
Lightyear 0: This Dutch solar car boasts an impressive range of up to 725 km (450 miles) on a single charge
Sono Motors Sion: A practical, affordable solar car with embedded solar panels over its body, the Sion can extend its range by up to 245 km (152 miles) with solar energy alone. It’s designed for everyday use and aims to make solar vehicles more accessible.
Aptera Solar Vehicle: The Aptera is famous for its ultra-efficient design. It can travel up to 1,000 km (620 miles) on a single charge, with solar panels providing supplemental energy.
Stella Era: Developed by the Solar Team Eindhoven, the design of this family car is for practicality and efficiency.
These models highlight the growing advancements in solar vehicle technology. Each aims to address various aspects of performance, affordability, and practicality.
Hydrogen Cars
These vehicles depend on hydrogen as a fuel. Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles emit only water vapour as an emission product. These have higher fuel efficiency than the petroleum products.
The Honda company is about to launch a car in the market ‘CR-V e: FCEV. This car contains a hydrogen fuel cell and a large battery. The vehicle is much safer because of the special design of the tank, which helps to prevent accidents.
HFCV- Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicles use an electric motor powered by a fuel cell.
A fuel cell is a device in which hydrogen (H2) combines with oxygen from the air to produce electricity that turns the wheels and emits water vapour as a byproduct.
Hydrogen is available in plenty. But it is never in its pure form. Mostly, we get hydrogen from fossil fuels such as natural gas.
The important drawback is the cost of manufacturing hydrogen fuel. We can produce hydrogen by electrolysis of water but that too consumes a huge amount of power. In addition, hydrogen is highly flammable, posing safety risks.
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