Frequently Asked Questions about electric cars - Optimal Energy
What type of batteries does Joule use?
Joule uses large cell lithium–ion batteries that employ chemistry similar to that found in cellular telephones and laptop computers.
Are the batteries that Joule uses recyclable?
Optimal Energy’s lithium-ion batteries are recyclable. Firstly, they can be used in stationary applications when their performance drops below automotive requirements. Secondly, the batteries can be dismantled and recycled.
Is there enough lithium in the world to make all cars electric?
Initial studies show that there is enough lithium to run about 2,000 million electric cars. There are currently less than 1,000 million cars in the world in total today. Lithium is not expended like oil or gas and is also recyclable.
Can the batteries that Joule uses be made in South Africa?
Yes. South Africa’s national research foundation, the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), was at the cutting edge of lithium battery research in the nineties. Studies to evaluate the feasibility of developing and producing batteries in South Africa are underway.
How safe are lithium–ion batteries?
A significant research and development effort focused on lithium battery safety over the past decade. The chemistry in lithium-ion batteries is now inherently safe. Lithium is also found in many medicinal applications. The lithium-ion batteries used in Joule do not contain any unsafe heavy metals. The energy contained in the batteries may be harmful if released instantaneously. It is for this reason that Optimal Energy incorporated safety into the design of Joule from the outset. Optimal Energy has ensured that the batteries meet automotive safety standards.
How long will the batteries last?
Optimal Energy expects the battery packs to last for 200,000km or 10 years, i.e., for the useful life of the vehicle. However, international battery developments are ongoing, and battery performance is constantly improving.
Are cheaper batteries available?
Cheaper batteries are available, but in general their quality is still lacking. However, there is a definite downward trend in battery prices.
What kind of improvement in batteries can be expected in the near future?
Current lithium based battery technologies operate at about 20% of their theoretical maximum performance. Lead–acid batteries, on the other hand, have been improved over the years to reach greater than 80% efficiency. So a doubling or even tripling of lithium–based battery performance is quite possible.
How will driving style affect battery life?
Aggressive, fast driving will reduce the range from a charge, but the battery management system (BMS) will protect battery life from an aggressive driving style.
Will Joule be able to offer the same performance when the battery is low as it does when the battery is full?
Yes. The BMS and integrated vehicle management system (IVMS) control this.
Is the battery lease model popular amongst other manufacturers?
Battery leasing is, and probably will be for some time, the financial model of choice for manufacturers of mainstream EVs.