S6: Electric Vehicles: A Beginner's Guide

EVs were produced in the USA since the 1880s and were strong contenders with steam engine vehicles and early models of internal combustion engines into the early 20th century. Specialized versions remained in the marketplace up until the early 21st century when due to technical advances in battery technologies, a number of the world's largest automobile manufacturers began developing full production models. Recent market trends show that an EV was the 17th best-selling car on the planet in model year 2021, 4th in model year 2022, and 1st in model year 2023. Current trends show that same model EV is heading again towards 1st place in Q1 of 2024. Prices for these expensive vehicles is projected to drop significantly in 2024/25 due to even newer technologies of batteries entering the marketplace and efficiencies from the high number of vehicles being produced. What types of EVs are available in the US marketplace today? How different are the basic operations and what factors affect range? Is infrastructure supporting the growth of EVs? What is it like adapting to driving a computer on wheels? The class will discuss Battery EVs, Plug-in Hybrid EVs, and Hybrid EVs.

Purpose: Get an overview of the three drivetrain types of EVs including concerns about range anxiety and charging.

Facilitator: Sam Baird