The Evolution SPACE, an electric vehicle that could last 50 years
The electrification of vehicles provides some solution to environmental problems, but the manufacture of a vehicle continues to be a very polluting operation. Manufacturers have tackled a lot of things in recent years, but not necessarily the lifespan of a vehicle.
This is the challenge that the German firm Evolution (e. Evolution) has decided to raise by developing the SPACE, an electric SUV with a range extender that could last up to 50 years. The model would become the first vehicle built with a circular economy philosophy, it could be updated and improved every five years in a factory remanufacturing process. This technique makes it possible to obtain a service life four times longer than that of conventional cars.
In addition to ensuring a far superior lifespan, the SPACE helps reduce its footprint with reduced emissions while ensuring a maximum range of 750 kilometers through the use of a combination of batteries and an extender. autonomy.
Plug-in hybrid
The technology developed by Evolution uses a compact 40 kilowatt-hour battery made up of standard modules providing approximately 150 kilometers of autonomy, which the manufacturer believes is sufficient for nearly 90% of daily journeys. According to them, the SPACE will probably be powered by the battery 85 to 90% of the time. After five years, the batteries can be reused for other purposes, including stationary solar lighting, for at least 20 years, reducing the footprint of battery development.
For people needing longer distance runs, a range extender incorporating an engine using liquefied petroleum (LPG) is used. It allows to charge or boost the current of the battery and it adds an additional autonomy of 600 kilometres.
The SPACE, which can accommodate up to seven passengers, has a low center of gravity and a relatively narrow width (only 1.92 meters), which makes it very agile in urban areas, especially for an SUV. Its two independent electric axles are also very compact, they allow large steering angles while the rear wheels are also steered.
Conclusion
Many praise the benefits of the electric car, but we must not forget that it is a consumer good that requires a lot of resources to produce. Working on longevity would undoubtedly make them even greener.
