Hyundai Claims BEV Range Boost With LCV Weight Estimator
Hyundai has developed a system that boosts range by estimating the gross vehicle weight of electric LCVs in work-a-day conditions.
It claims an industry first in employing acceleration sensors to boost potential range between charges based on a current gross weight estimate. The process is hoped to reduce potential wheel spin and reduced traction when a vehicle is carrying less payload thus increasing efficiency.
Its technology claims to calculate torque output based on topography, altering the amount of power needed to propel a vehicle uphill based on its gross weight. 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.
Chae Mo Yang, Hyundai’s group leader of eco-technology performance development group, said: “Hyundai developed this technology because we realize 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.”
— Paul Myles is a seasoned automotive journalist based in London. Follow him on Twitter @Paulmyles_
