Imagine a technology that allows you to top up your EV car batteries in minutes. Wouldn’t that solve some of the primary concerns associated with EVs? Range anxiety and longer waiting periods compared to internal combustion engine cars would no longer be of concern.
In a new record in automotive electrification, UK-based Nyobolt has revealed advanced battery technology that can fully and repeatedly charge its batteries in less than six minutes. It also unveiled its concept EV based on the Lotus Elicpse, which features its novel ultra-fast charging concept.
Nyobolt entrusted renowned designer Julian and engineering business CALLUM to collaborate in developing the design of the Lotus Eclipse. It is 100mm wider and 150mm longer than the original Eclipse, has a carbon fiber body, and rides on 19-inch wheels. However, it does have a removable roof panel for a little open-top fun.
“Our partnership with CALLUM shows how the adoption of system-level technology innovations can transform the future of electric vehicles and increase the accessibility of EVs, including to the 40% of UK households who can’t charge their vehicle at home overnight,” said Sai Shivareddy, CEO at Nyobolt, in a statement.
Furthering electric mobility for the masses
Researchers have long tried to match the convenience of petrol refueling in EVs. Due to the unavailability of ultra-fast charging options, batteries are large, heavy, and expensive, making some purchasers unable to afford EVs and their vehicles frequently weighing more than two tonnes. “The requirement for heavy EV battery packs places a huge strain on the supply of battery raw materials,” said a press release by the firm.
The technology offered, with a battery range of 155 miles (250 kilometers), enables the company to provide a “nimbler, more efficient EV with a lower up-front cost, lower running costs and lower use of scarce raw material.” The Nyobolt EV has a weight closer to one tonne than two, a 35kWh battery, and can be completely charged in less than six minutes. That is more than twice as fast as the current quickest-charging automobiles on the road.
A durable alternative to traditional offerings
These capabilities don’t sacrifice the life of batteries, as Nyobolt has done a 2000-fast charge cycle without exhibiting a drastic drop in performance. This will lead to the development of ultra-efficient and lightweight EVs.
Additionally, Nyobolt technology is not just for tiny batteries. Once 1MW chargers are made available, larger packs, such as those utilized in any luxury EV, truck, or bus used today, can also be built and charged in minutes.
“Unlocking the challenges faced by electric vehicle designers has been key to the development of our breakthrough fast-charging batteries. Previously, enabling a lightweight fast-charging vehicle was not possible without compromising its lifetime and so people have been relying on costly and large battery packs in the vehicle,” said Shivareddy.
ABOUT THE EDITOR
Jijo Malayil Jijo is an automotive and business journalist based in India. Armed with a BA in History (Honors) from St. Stephen's College, Delhi University, and a PG diploma in Journalism from the Indian Institute of Mass Communication, Delhi, he has worked for news agencies, national newspapers, and automotive magazines. In his spare time, he likes to go off-roading, engage in political discourse, travel, and teach languages.
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