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New software lowers EV range anxiety
American university is working on data-gathering system rated accurate to 95 per centThe key factor that distinguishes driving an electric vehicle from a conventional internal-combustion vehicle is what's known as 'range anxiety'. But researchers at America's North Carolina State University are working on a way to lessen the impact of this syndrome.
"Electric cars already have range-estimation software, but we believe our approach is more accurate," says Dr. Habiballah Rahimi-Eichi, who is the lead author of a paper submitted by his team.
"Existing technologies estimate remaining range based on average energy consumption of the past 5 miles, 15 miles, et cetera. By plugging in the destination, our software looks at traffic data, whether you'll be on the highway or in the city, weather, road grade, and other variables.
"This predictive, big-data approach is a significant step forward, reducing the range estimation error to a couple of miles. In some case studies, we were able to get 95 per cent range estimation accuracy."
In addition to traffic flow, topography and other variables, the software also takes into account the vehicle itself and its battery performance. Current range gauges in electric vehicles can provide false estimates based on earlier driving styles or spending more time on open roads without stopping, to use two examples. Even switching on lights/wipers and demister can have a drastic effect on an EV's range.
The new software, if widely adopted, could take some of these peaks and troughs out of the equation.
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Written byCarsales Staff
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If the price does not contain the notation that it is "Drive Away", the price may not include additional costs, such as stamp duty and other government charges.
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