The widening gap between legislation and demand for electric cars has prompted car makers to explore alternative solutions. One technology that has garnered attention is range-extender (REx) cars. Unlike traditional plug-in hybrids, REx cars prioritize the electric motor over the petrol engine by packaging a large battery and a hefty electric motor alongside a small petrol engine.
REx technology offers several advantages over plug-in hybrids. One key benefit is that it incentivizes drivers to keep the battery topped up. With the electric motor prioritized, drivers are more likely to charge the battery, reducing reliance on the petrol engine. This is in contrast to plug-in hybrids, where drivers often fail to plug in their vehicles, resulting in higher CO2 emissions.
The issue of CO2 emissions is particularly significant for plug-in hybrids, as recent studies have shown that they emit more than three times their claimed CO2 levels in the EU. This is partly due to drivers neglecting to charge their vehicles, leading to increased reliance on the petrol engine. REx cars offer a potential solution to this problem, as their design encourages regular charging and reduces the reliance on the petrol engine.
Given the increasing pressure to phase out internal combustion engine (ICE) cars by 2035, REx technology could prove to be a valuable tool. By offering a more efficient and environmentally friendly alternative to plug-in hybrids, REx cars could help accelerate the transition to electric vehicles. With their emphasis on the electric motor and battery, REx cars address some of the downsides associated with traditional hybrids and provide a bridge between legislation and consumer demand for electric cars.
In conclusion, REx cars have the potential to be a game-changer in the automotive industry. By prioritizing the electric motor and encouraging regular charging, these vehicles offer a more sustainable and efficient solution compared to plug-in hybrids. With the push to phase out ICE cars by 2035, REx technology could play a crucial role in accelerating the adoption of electric vehicles. As car makers continue to innovate and adapt to changing regulations and consumer demands, REx cars could be the key to bridging the gap between legislation and the desire for greener transportation.