Module–3 Insight into Future Mobility BESCK104D/204D

Insight into Future Mobility: Electric and Hybrid Vehicles, Components of Electric and
Hybrid Vehicles. Advantages and disadvantages of EVs and Hybrid vehicles.

Introduction:

The concept of Future Mobility is evolving rapidly, shaped by technological innovation,

environmental concerns, urbanization, and changing consumer behavior. The "future of
mobility" refers to the evolving landscape of transportation, encompassing trends like electric
vehicles, autonomous driving, shared mobility services (like ride-sharing and car-sharing),
and the integration of technology into transportation systems. It essentially explores how
people will move in the future, with a focus on efficiency, sustainability, and convenience.

Electric vehicles:

The transition to electric vehicles is a major focus, with ongoing advancements in battery
technology and charging infrastructure.

Autonomous vehicles:

Self-driving cars, trucks, and buses are expected to become increasingly common, potentially
transforming how we travel and how cities are designed.

NEED OF ELECTRIC VEHICLES:

Electric vehicles (EVs) are needed to address climate change, improve air quality, and reduce
dependence on fossil fuels. They offer significant environmental and economic benefits,
including lower emissions, reduced maintenance costs, and potential tax
incentives. Additionally, EVs contribute to energy diversity and can help decongest cities.
Here's a more detailed look at the reasons for needing EVs:
 Environmental Benefits:
 Reduced Greenhouse Gas Emissions:
EVs produce zero tailpipe emissions, significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions
compared to gasoline or diesel vehicles.
 Improved Air Quality:
EVs contribute to cleaner air by eliminating tailpipe emissions, which are a major source of
air pollution in urban areas.
 Reduced Noise Pollution:
EVs operate quietly, minimizing noise pollution in cities.
 Less Dependence on Fossil Fuels:
EVs reduce reliance on imported oil and promote the use of cleaner energy sources like
solar and wind.
 Economic Benefits:
 Lower Operating Costs:
Electricity is generally cheaper than gasoline or diesel, resulting in lower fuel costs for EVs.
 Reduced Maintenance Costs:
EVs have fewer moving parts than traditional vehicles, leading to lower maintenance and
repair expenses.
 Government Incentives:
Many governments offer tax credits and other incentives to promote EV adoption, making
them more affordable.

1 Department of Mechanical Engineering, Sri Krishna Institute of Technology, Bengaluru-500090

 Module–3 Insight into Future Mobility BESCK104D/204D

 Technological and Societal Benefits:

 Energy Diversity:
EVs contribute to a more diverse energy system by allowing the use of renewable energy
sources for transportation.
 Job Creation:
The EV industry creates jobs in manufacturing, infrastructure development, and related
sectors.
 Decongestion of Cities:
EVs can help decongest cities by promoting shared mobility and compact designs.
 Public Health Benefits:
Reduced emissions lead to improvements in public health by decreasing exposure to
harmful pollutants.

Electric and Hybrid Vehicles:

Electric vehicles (EVs) are generally considered better than hybrid vehicles for their lower
environmental impact, lower running costs, and potential for higher performance. While hybrids offer
better fuel efficiency and lower upfront costs, EVs provide zero tailpipe emissions and lower
maintenance costs. The best choice depends on individual needs and priorities, but EVs are
increasingly attractive due to advancements in technology and infrastructure.

Here's a more detailed comparison:

Electric Vehicles (EVs):

Electric vehicles (EVs) are vehicles powered by electricity and an electric motor, rather than
traditional gasoline-powered engines. They use batteries or fuel cells to provide power, eliminating
or reducing the need for liquid fuels. EVs can be categorized into various types, including battery
electric vehicles (BEVs), plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), and hybrid electric vehicles
(HEVs).

 Pros:
 Zero tailpipe emissions: EVs produce no emissions, contributing to cleaner air and a
smaller carbon footprint.
 Lower running costs: Charging at home is often cheaper than fueling up with
gasoline, and EVs have fewer moving parts, leading to lower maintenance costs.
 Potential for high performance: EVs can offer instant torque and acceleration.
 Quiet operation: EVs are significantly quieter than gasoline-powered vehicles,
contributing to a more peaceful driving experience.
 Growing charging infrastructure: Public charging stations are becoming more
readily available, reducing range anxiety.
Cons:
 Higher upfront cost: EVs typically have a higher purchase price than hybrid or
gasoline-powered vehicles.
 Range limitations: While EV ranges are increasing, they can still be a concern for
long-distance trips or in areas with limited charging infrastructure.
 Charging time: Charging at home or at public stations can take longer than fueling a
gasoline vehicle.

2 Department of Mechanical Engineering, Sri Krishna Institute of Technology, Bengaluru-500090

 Module–3 Insight into Future Mobility BESCK104D/204D

Hybrid Vehicles:

A hybrid vehicle is a car that uses both an electric motor and a traditional internal combustion
engine for power. It combines the benefits of both, aiming for improved fuel efficiency, reduced
emissions, and sometimes, increased performance.

 Pros:
 Improved fuel efficiency: Hybrids use both electric and gasoline engines, resulting in
better fuel economy than gasoline-powered vehicles.
 Lower upfront cost: Hybrids are generally less expensive to purchase than EVs.
 No range anxiety: Hybrids can run on gasoline alone, eliminating range concerns for
long trips or in areas with limited charging infrastructure.
 Flexibility: Hybrids can be driven in various modes (electric only, gasoline only, or
combined) depending on the situation.
Cons:
 Some tailpipe emissions: Hybrids still produce emissions from the gasoline engine.
 Higher maintenance costs: The hybrid system can have more complex components,
potentially leading to higher maintenance costs.
 Lower performance: While hybrids can provide good acceleration, they may not
offer the same level of instant torque as EVs.

Fig. 3.1 Structure of Electric Vehicles (EVs) & Hybrid Vehicles:

The choice between an EV and a hybrid depends on individual needs and priorities. If reducing
environmental impact and long-term running costs are top priorities, EVs are the better choice. If
lower upfront costs and a more convenient driving experience are more important, hybrids may be a
better fit.

3 Department of Mechanical Engineering, Sri Krishna Institute of Technology, Bengaluru-500090

 Module–3 Insight into Future Mobility BESCK104D/204D

Components of Electric and Hybrid Vehicles.

Electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) share some key components, but HEVs
also incorporate an internal combustion engine (ICE) and a transmission system. The main
components include a battery pack, electric motor, power control unit, and a regenerative braking
system.

COMPONENTS OF ELECTRIC VEHICLES (EVS):

 Traction Battery Pack: Stores electrical energy to power the electric motor.

 Electric Motor: Converts electrical energy into mechanical energy to drive the wheels.

 Power Control Unit: Manages the flow of electricity from the battery to the motor and other
components.

 Charging System: Allows the vehicle to be charged from an external power source.

 DC-DC Converter: Converts high-voltage DC power from the battery to lower-voltage DC

power for vehicle accessories and the auxiliary battery.

 Regenerative Braking System: Converts kinetic energy back into electrical energy during
braking, recharging the battery.

 Onboard Charger: Converts alternating current (AC) power from the charging port into
direct current (DC) power for the battery.

Fig. 3.2 Components of Electric Vehicles (EVs)

4 Department of Mechanical Engineering, Sri Krishna Institute of Technology, Bengaluru-500090

 Module–3 Insight into Future Mobility BESCK104D/204D

COMPONENTS OF HYBRID ELECTRIC VEHICLES (HEVS):

What is a hybrid? A hybrid vehicle combines any two power (energy) sources. Possible combinations
include diesel/electric, gasoline/fly wheel, and fuel cell (FC)/battery. Typically, one energy source is
storage, and the other is conversion of a fuel to energy. The combination of two power sources may
support two separate propulsion systems. Thus to be a True hybrid, the vehicle must have at least two
modes of propulsion.

For example, a truck that uses a diesel to drive a generator, which in turn drives several electrical
motors for all-wheel drive, is not a hybrid. But if the truck has electrical energy storage to provide a
second mode, which is electrical assists, then it is a hybrid Vehicle.

 Internal Combustion Engine (ICE): A gasoline or diesel engine that provides additional
power and range.
 Electric Motor: Provides electric power for acceleration, deceleration, and at low speeds.
 Battery Pack: Stores electrical energy to power the electric motor and other systems.
 Power Control Unit: Manages the flow of power between the ICE, electric motor, and
battery.
 Transmission: Distributes power from the ICE and/or electric motor to the wheels.
 Regenerative Braking System: Converts kinetic energy back into electrical energy during
braking, recharging the battery.
 DC-DC Converter: Converts high-voltage DC power from the battery to lower-voltage DC
power for vehicle accessories and the auxiliary battery.
 Auxiliary Battery: Provides power for starting the engine and running vehicle accessories.
 Charge Port: Allows the vehicle to connect to an external power supply for charging (in
plug-in hybrid electric vehicles.
 Onboard Charger: Converts alternating current (AC) power from the charging port into
direct current (DC) power for the battery (in plug-in hybrid electric vehicles.

Fig. 3.3 Components of Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEV’S):

5 Department of Mechanical Engineering, Sri Krishna Institute of Technology, Bengaluru-500090

 Module–3 Insight into Future Mobility BESCK104D/204D

Advantages and disadvantages of EVs and Hybrid vehicles

Electric Vehicles (EVs)

Electric Vehicles run solely on electricity, powered by rechargeable batteries. They produce
zero emissions during operation, making them an eco-friendly choice.
Advantages of EVs
1. Environmental Benefits: EVs produce no tailpipe emissions, significantly reducing
greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution.
2. Lower Operating Costs: Electricity is generally cheaper than gasoline, and EVs require
less maintenance due to fewer moving parts.
3. Smooth and Quiet Performance: EVs offer instant torque for quick acceleration and a
quieter driving experience.
4. Government Incentives: Many countries offer tax credits, rebates, and other incentives
for EV buyers.
5. Energy Efficiency: EVs convert more energy from their power source to movement
compared to internal combustion engine vehicles.
Disadvantages of EVs
1. Limited Driving Range: Most EVs have a shorter range compared to gasoline-powered
or hybrid vehicles.
2. Charging Infrastructure: The availability of charging stations can be a challenge,
especially in rural or underdeveloped areas.
3. Long charging Times: Even with fast chargers, recharging an EV takes significantly
longer than refueling a gasoline vehicle.
4. Higher Upfront Costs: EVs tend to have a higher initial purchase price, although this is
offset by lower operating costs over time.
5. Battery Lifecycle and Recycling: The environmental impact of battery production and
disposal remains a concern.

Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs):

Hybrid Electric Vehicles combine a traditional internal combustion engine with an electric motor and
battery. They offer a middle ground between conventional and fully electric vehicles.

Advantages of HEVs

1. Extended Driving Range: HEVs can switch between gasoline and electric power, offering
greater range and flexibility.

2. Fuel Efficiency: HEVs are more fuel-efficient than traditional gasoline-powered vehicles,
especially in stop-and-go traffic.
3. No Charging Dependency: HEVs do not rely on external charging infrastructure since they
generate electricity through regenerative braking and the gasoline engine.

4. Lower Emissions: While not as eco-friendly as EVs, HEVs produce fewer emissions than
traditional vehicles.

5. Affordable Options: HEVs are often more affordable than EVs, making them an accessible
choice for many consumers.

6 Department of Mechanical Engineering, Sri Krishna Institute of Technology, Bengaluru-500090

 Module–3 Insight into Future Mobility BESCK104D/204D

Disadvantages of HEVs:

1. Complexity: The dual power train increases the complexity of the vehicle, potentially leading to
higher maintenance costs.

2. Environmental Impact: HEVs still rely on gasoline, albeit less than traditional vehicles, which
contributes to emissions.
3. Less Electric Efficiency: HEVs are not as energy-efficient as EVs since they still rely on fossil
fuels.
4. Performance Limitations: HEVs often lack the powerful acceleration and smooth performance
of EVs.
5. Battery Size: HEVs have smaller batteries than EVs, limiting their ability to run solely on electric
power for extended periods.

Difference between Electric Vehicle and Hybrid Electric Vehicle:

The following table highlights all the key differences between hybrid electric vehicle and electric
vehicle:
SI
Parameter Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) Electric Vehicle (EV)
NO

1 A type of vehicle that uses a combination of Electric vehicle is one that has
internal combustion engine and a battery one or more electric motors
Definition
powered electric motor to propel the vehicle powered from a battery pack to
is called a hybrid electric vehicle. propel the vehicle.

2 In HEVs, electricity and fossil fuels like petrol In EVs, electricity stored in
Source of
and diesel are used as the source of energy to batteries is the main source of
energy
drive the vehicle. energy to drive the car.

3 In HEVs, an internal combustion engine (ICE)

In EVs, electric motors are used
Driving system and electric motors together are used as the
as the driving system.
vehicle driving system.

4 In HEVs, batteries cannot be charged by

Plug-in
plugging-in to a charging station, instead Electric vehicles are charged by
charging of
they are charged from an alternator driven plugging-in method.
battery pack
by the IC engine.

5 Need of petrol Hybrid electric vehicles require petrol or Electric vehicles do not require
or diesel diesel. petrol or diesel.

6 Electric vehicles have

Drive train Hybrid electric vehicles have highly complex
comparatively simpler drive train
complexity drive train.
than HEVs.

7 Hybrid electric vehicles emit pollutants like

Pollutants
CO2, chemical pollutants, particulate Electric vehicles do not emit any
emission
pollutants, etc. during operation. This is kind of pollutants during
during
mainly due to combustion of fossil fuels in IC operation.
operation
engine.

8 Fuel facility In the case of HEVs, the fuel facility locations In the case of EVs, the fuel facility
locations are fuel pumps. locations are charging stations.

9 Fuel efficiency Hybrid electric vehicles have higher fuel Electric vehicles have higher fuel

7 Department of Mechanical Engineering, Sri Krishna Institute of Technology, Bengaluru-500090

 Module–3 Insight into Future Mobility BESCK104D/204D

efficiency than traditional ICE vehicles, but efficiency than hybrid electric
less than electric vehicles. vehicles.

10 Hybrid electric vehicles do not require Electric vehicles require

Recharging recharging of batteries, as they use IC engine recharging of battery from
to charge batteries. charging stations.

11 Hybrid electric vehicles require regular Electric vehicles require less

Maintenance maintenance as similar to traditional maintenance due to use of fewer
vehicles. moving parts.

12 The capital cost of hybrid electric vehicles is The capital cost of electric
Capital cost
comparatively lower than EVs. vehicles is more than HEVs.

13 Electric vehicles have lower

Hybrid electric vehicles have higher
Operational operational cost due to no need
operational cost due to fuel, regular
cost of refilling of fuel and less
maintenance, etc.
maintenance requirement.

14 Electric vehicles have large sized

Battery pack Hybrid electric vehicles have a smaller
battery packs to provide
size battery pack.
extended driving ranges.

15 Hybrid electric vehicles produce noise due to Electric vehicles have quitter
Noise levels
operation of internal combustion engine. operation.

16 The distance range of an electric

Hybrid electric vehicles can cover longer
Distance/range vehicle is limited by the capacity
distances
of its battery pack.

*****

8 Department of Mechanical Engineering, Sri Krishna Institute of Technology, Bengaluru-500090