Technology review
The world system is facing perhaps unique challenges far from the one it faced a century ago. Today, issues like the changing world climatic patterns is surely at the top of the list. Many experts, scholars, and futurists have continued to decry the alarming levels of pollution, be it at either industrial or domestic level. For instance, in some of the world’s busiest cities, the auto-industry has been blamed for contributing to the soaring pollution levels thanks to the gasoline powered vehicles which emit a lot of carbon to the atmosphere (Pratiwi, 2016). Notably, the carbon emissions are in the form of dangerous gaseous compounds such as carbon monoxide. As they get to the atmosphere, the ozone layer gets attacked and ultimately becomes more porous to the dangerous radiations from the sun. These radiations can then penetrate and cause great injuries to the organic life. Besides, the impacts of carbon footprints and emissions goes to the extent of destabilizing the world’s natural ecosystem. The world climatic patterns have dramatically changed as a result of uncontrolled pollution. Thawing of snow during winter and the frequent El Nino rains are perhaps clear manifestations of the dangerous levels the crisis has reached. However, thankfully, there have been many innovative solutions developed to address this menace. Notably, the Paris climate change accord sets these solutions into actionable level. Notably, Engineers in the last decade have been grappling with the issue of designing and developing fuel-efficient vehicles (Hansen, Mathiesen & Connolly, 2011). Therefore, development of the electric vehicle technology is being viewed as one of the many solutions to addressing the said challenge. As mentioned in the proposal, this type of vehicle produces almost zero emissions to the atmosphere; besides, it works silently hence its acoustic performance is topnotch. Admittedly, the focus is now shifting from the theoretical standpoint to the actual implementation. The question in the minds of most experts now is: how exactly should the change be effected so that the technology disruption can happen in a harmonious fashion? What key factors would guarantee it a success? And finally, can we have a system where the entire architecture can be established so that a workable implementation plan can be crafted? Therefore, the thesis hereinafter will make great attempt to address the mentioned issues. By the end of this report, certainly, one would be in a better position to comprehend the whole system and therefore can tailor-make to fit the individual requirements. Admittedly, the future looks more interesting with this technology in mind and many people are expectant of the great benefits it will bring onboard. Hence let the work roll.
Firstly, it is imperative to get first hand insight on the industry’s happenings. Hence in this section, a review on the current technology is presented and any existential gaps are identified as well.
According to Catenacci, Verdolini, Bosetti, Foirese, & Ameli (2012) successful implementation of the electric vehicle technology will make a commercial sense perhaps in the next 20 years. The author goes ahead to affirm that improvement in battery technology is certainly a critical success factor for the mentioned technology. In this paper, there are fundamental issues that have been elucidated in support of the proposed issues made earlier in the proposal (about concerns in the battery technology). Notably, the cost and capacity of the batteries will have to be improved so that the said technology can fairly compete with the gasoline powered vehicles (Catenacci et al, 2012). Currently, the market competitive share is lopsided such that many motorists are opting to use the gasoline powered vehicles due to their lower running costs. Now, the electric vehicle grossly depends on the charging capacity of the battery. Currently, it is estimated that averagely, gasoline powered vehicle can run twice the distance given the same amount of energy cost as electric vehicle (Axsen, Goldberg & Bailey, 2015). Catenacci et al (2012) based his work on the expert’s opinion. Axsen et al (2015) also supports the notion that the batteries being used are limited in life cycle and may not fully support the functional requirements of the vehicle; for instance, one would require possible replacements after few years while gasoline powered vehicle engines would last a lifetime. However, Engineers have continued to work to improve the battery technology. As Bansal (2015) opines the recent advancement in the wireless charging technology could substantially improve the charging speed and capacity. The battery charging extension plans are currently underway; HEVO Power, a startup company has taken over the work of developing the green parking concept. According to Bansal (2015) the said company is planning to build underground wireless charging hotspots in restricted parking areas so that motorist can easily drive in and park for a few minutes as they wait for their batteries to be charged; the method would use manholes to link the car wireless receiver with the charging hotspot. Most definitely should this roll out plan be successful, then the issue of longer charge time will be a past thing as real-time charging will ensure continuity of the journey with minimum stop over time to recharge. Actually, according to Jabeen, Olaru, Smith, Braunl & Speidel (2012) one of the issues that has made the motorists to be hesitant in embracing the technology is the aspect of unnecessarily longer charge time. Besides, since it is a new development in the auto industry, the charging stations are expectedly few. Therefore, Jabeen et al (2012) encapsulates these issues with an acceptability model based on consumer behavior. According to Jabeen et al (2012) consumer technology acceptance regime can be grouped into the following elements: Technology acceptance; adoption propensity; post-adoption behavior; and technology readiness. In technology acceptance, for example, the consumer’s perceived ease of use and perceived usefulness are explored. The latter focuses on how the consumer thinks the commodity will help in improving her performance while the former relies on the consumer’s expectation that the commodity will not in any way cause him to strain in understanding how to use it (Jabeen et al, 2012). Lastly, the author proposes a conceptual workable model illustrated in figure 1:
Admittedly, the author also seems to support the notion that the growing concern for sustainable environmental technologies could push the drivers to accept the EV technology. Besides, they have strong personal opinion against the gasoline powered vehicles but would also be quick to point at the conversion efficiency and the relatively higher energy and operational costs that often accompany the EV cars. Actually, the findings reveal that the drivers are mostly concerned with EV’s battery capacity and charge time (Kulkami, 2015). However, they wholeheartedly agree that with improvements in the existing EV technology, it can deliver an unmatched competitive edge with the gasoline powered vehicles. It should be noted, as pointed out earlier, that the underlying benefits far outweigh the limitations of the EV technology and it is only through more innovations from scientists and Engineers that the theoretical benefits can be translated into a commercially sustainable reality car. The author also went further to enquire about whether one would likely recommend the technology for use by his inner circle, for example. The response was quite dramatic; about 65% of those who were surveyed actually committed themselves that they would surely recommend the EVs to others. This is a positive response coming at a time when the technology is starting to gain momentum and perhaps globally spread out. However, global acceptance is estimated to happen in the next 20 years according to Catenacci et al (2012). Therefore, according to Jabeen et al (2012) further implementation of the said technology will have to harmonize the existential technical difficulties with the underlying benefits.
Furthermore, there have also been attempts to merge the two vehicle technologies so that a hybrid vehicle can result. According to Kulkarni (2015) the hybrid vehicle marries the two technologies so that they interdependently operate to deliver the much-needed sustainable driving performance. As mentioned earlier, the vehicle works by first running on gasoline while the electric power pack is in charging mode by tapping the gasoline engine’s kinetic energy and when gas finally runs out in the middle of the journey, the driver would then switch to the electric powered system to ensure continuity of the journey. This is estimated to run for some time before EV batteries can need recharging. Ultimately, the carbon emissions would effectively reduce as a result of using the hybrid vehicle while at the same time minimize the aspect of frequent recharging (Kulkarni, 2015). However, the test drivers have decried the complexity of operating such a vehicle. Besides, the cost of maintaining the hybrid vehicle is likely to double thanks to the two-powering system and the increased part count. Additionally, the electric power pack is now incorporating the battery charging so that it can handle the cold starting of the vehicle in the unlikely event that gas is unavailable to start off the system (Kulkarni, 2015). Notably, there are different ranges of hybrid cars depending on the configuration of the powering system. But that is beyond the scope of the paper.
Now, lastly, some experts are also concerned about the recyclability of the electric vehicle components, notably, the battery. Axsen et al (2015) explored the life cycle analysis of the plug-in electric vehicle; pointing out at the dangers that the components such as the vehicle battery could be having to our environment. Surprisingly, the technology has been lauded as being environmentally friendly but this is likely not to be true on a closer look at the futuristic effect of the technology. Axsen et al (2015) examines the question that perhaps has been asked by many: what next after successful implementation of the electric vehicle technology; and in this context, the author means the global commercial acceptance of the said technology. By conducting a life cycle analysis, the author revealed that the batteries would cause pollution to the environment as well if not properly handled after product end-life. Normally, the batteries are of the accumulator type that contains dangerous chemical elements and solutions like Lithium and acids which pollute the soils if improperly disposed of. But Bansal (2015) is certain that a more environmentally-friendly battery would be available in the market soonest, thanks to the rapid technology innovations and development in this area.
Therefore, the technical review above provides a framework onto which the workable system being proposed will be established. However, there is need to be on the lookout on the possible factors that can derail the successful implementation of the EV technology. The next section, therefore, explores, the practically possible impediments to the successful implementation of the system that would guarantee a smooth transit from the gasoline powered to electric vehicle technology.
Now, there have been fundamental issues, some have been mentioned earlier, that are likely to prevent the transition process from running smoothly. It should be noted that the factors being discussed in this section are considered the chief sources of implementation problems (but it is not exhaustive per se); and also armed with the fact that the technology is still at the infantile stage hence dynamically several developments are expectedly occurring within short life spans.
Therefore, the impediments to the transition include:
Allegedly, there are fears among the automakers, industry investors, and policy makers that the technology would cause major industry disruptions. The acceptability among the mentioned stakeholders is dramatically dwindling as the technology matures. In fact, there are people who fear major job cuts when the technology becomes commercially stable. Some researchers have conducted research to try and get the attitude and perception of consumers about the said technology. However, hardly has there been any work done to uncover the real fears and reservations of the current autoworkers who, as mentioned earlier, allegedly are worried about their job security in the wake of this technology. Expectedly, any technology would often cause some disruptions as it tries to outclass the existing one. Hence obviously if not well managed, the mass implementation of the EV technology will likely receive a backstabbing response from the real players of the industry.
Notably, it will cost about double to run and maintain the electric vehicle. Most users are shying away from purchasing the vehicle due to the prohibitive costs (Sharma, Kulkami, Veerandra & Karthik, 2016). The costs arise due to the expensive technology that is being used to drive and maintain it. This is likely to inhibit commercial growth of the car as more people say they would rather purchase the gasoline powered and use it as its running and maintenance costs are relatively affordable.
As mentioned earlier, the technology is still advancing and if compared with the gasoline powered technology, one can say that it is at an infantile stage. For instance, the recharging stations are still few; besides, recharging time is still frequent and longer hence discouraging the users as time is a critical factor of societal progression (Weiller, 2016). This will also make fewer people especially those who just want to be technology adventurers to try it out but the main stream users would be locked out due to capacity challenges.
As mentioned earlier, most users as it currently stands prefer the gasoline powered vehicle to the electric one (Weiller, 2015). Admittedly, this can be viewed as a natural happening as most people are conservatives in nature; actually, few can have the audacity to try out new stuff hence the technology is likely to suffer serious backlash coming from the majority conservatives.
This has also proven to be a major stumbling block to the smooth transition progress. Unlike the gasoline powered vehicle which one can actually refuel to the required capacity and drive for greater mileage, the electric car especially the plug-in types would require one to frequently stop so that they can recharge (Liu, 2015 & Weiller, 2016). However, shockingly, the recharging stations are too few hence ending up inconveniencing the drivers. Likely, this is among the reasons why most drivers are comfortable with the gas-powered vehicles. Besides, the batteries currently being used also do not last a lifetime piling financial pressure on the users to replace it after some time. This is likely to discourage more potential buyers.
Therefore, having outlined the impediments to the global commercialization of the said technology, it is now imperative to present a system that can manage the implementation issues discussed above. The next paragraphs elucidate the proposal by touching on all the fundamental corners of the mentioned sector hence the system facets include:
This is a critical facet and must be prioritized by the implementing groups. At a bare minimum, it must be composed of: Strategic investment, improved support network such as expanded number of recharge stations, and improved supply of electricity (Messagie, Lebeau, Coosemans, Macharis, & Mierlo, 2013). It is expected that demand for more electricity will shoot hence plans must be underway across all countries of the world to increase their power generating capacities in readiness for the technology. Notably, renewable energy generators should be promoted greatly as they also take part in the efforts of reducing the global carbon emissions. Furthermore, governments must consider reducing the tariffs to excite the consumers into fully embracing the electric vehicle technology. Lastly, there will also be need to develop the after-sale service of these cars with more professionals in the field to be trained so that they can handle the seemingly complex technology (given they were used to the gas-powered systems). Ultimately, the user requirements will have to be met.
As mentioned earlier, the technology is still at an infantile stage although rapid growth in the coming years is expected; especially with the adoption of the right strategies. Therefore, there is need to encourage more innovations and research work in the area; and the focus should be: improving the battery storage capacity; improving the speed of charging; seeking better and sustainable ways and means to deal with the problems as they arise. For example, some companies have partly solved the issue of charge time as there are now green parks where one would drive in and wirelessly charge their car through a manhole such that the charging receiver can perceive the signals from the charging hotspots. Therefore, such initiatives need to be encouraged. Governments must be ready to issue research funding to support the improvement of the current technology (Liu, 2015). Engineers and Scientist are also expected to work harder and smarter and deliver the much-needed technology solutions.
As mentioned above, governments play a critical role in the electric car development. Not only are they supposed to issue research funding and developing the infrastructure, but also, they must formulate winning regulations and policies to effectively manage the transition and the industry in general. There are many avenues in which policy reforms can be instituted; for example, provision of tax rebates, credits and exemptions to the automakers who have opted to manufacture the EV cars (Van der Steen, 2015 and Zhang, Xie, Rao & Liang, 2014). Furthermore, they need to review the current policies on national energy management. Promotion of sustainable and renewable energy system would effectively promote more use of the EV cars. Notably, most governments including the Australian government signed the Paris climate deal and agreed to ratify the accord. It is therefore through such avenues (like the promotion of the electric cars) that the ambitious goal of eliminating the carbon emissions and footprints can be actualized.
Seemingly, many potential users of these cars are not aware of the underlying benefits that this technology brings onboard. It is imperative especially to the marketing departments to resort to more robust marketing campaign for the new product to be known in the market. The campaign must address the consumer anxiety and reservations. Notably, it should start from the worker themselves; as they are the number one consumers of the product and having an aloof workforce to actualize the production of these cars is as good as building castles in the air. Therefore, their fears of possible job cuts must be replaced with the promise of a better working standard due to new skills coming onboard. Besides, the external customers must also be targeted; for example, provision of customer purchase incentives is key to establishing the market presence (Sharma et al, 2016).
One of the problems with electronics today is the e-waste menace. In the beginning, there was never a consideration of measures to manage the life cycle of the e-products. Luckily, for the EV cars, there is need to fix this issue in the earliest opportunity. The car batteries are likely to be replaced after some few years and this would mean that the old batteries would find their way to polluting environment if not properly managed hence a waste management system specifically for the EV parts need to be developed. Notably, recycling is perhaps the best waste management route that should be integrated in the mainstream manufacturing of the parts. Recycling should be done to those parts that have proven recyclable hence life cycle analysis should be carried out as early as the global EV commercial initiation stage is concerned (Lester, Hendrickson, & McMichael, 1995).
The above system facets can be summarized in the flow diagram as illustrated in figure 1 below:
Conclusion
In conclusion, therefore, the thesis presentation has tackled the major issue worth considering during the transition of the electric vehicle technology so that a mass commercial success can be registered. Notably, the workable system proposed has presented an integrated approach to the implementation stage. The major work that remains is for the concern authorities to adopt the system so that commercialization journey of the technology can gain momentum. Certainly, as mentioned earlier, the technology is most likely to cause major disruptions in the auto industry. However, the author is certain that under proper implementation strategy, the impacts as a result of adoption of the said technology will be insignificant; instead more benefits than setbacks are expected especially towards contributing to a sustainable world system.
References
Axsen, J., Goldberg,S., &Bailey, J . (2015). Electrifying Vehicles Insights from the Canadian Plug-in Electric Vehicle Study. Available at: https://rem-main.rem.sfu.ca/papers/jaxsen/Electrifying_Vehicle_(Early_Release)-The_2015_Canadian_Plug-in_Electric_Vehicle_Study.pdf
Bansal, P. (2015). Charging of Electric Vehicles: Technology and Policy Implications. Available at: https://www.sciencepolicyjournal.org/uploads/5/4/3/4/5434385/bansal_new_ta3_1.2.2015_lb.pdf
Catenacci, M., Verdolini, E., Bosetti, V., Foirese, G., & Ameli, N. (2012). Expert Survey on the Future of Battery Technologies for Electric Vehicles Technology. Available at: https://ageconsearch.umn.edu/record/143123/files/NDL2012-093.pdf
Hansen, K., Mathiesen, B.V., & Connolly, D. (2011). Technology and implementation of electric vehicles and plugin hybrid electric vehicles. Available at: https://vbn.aau.dk/files/58766708/attachment_6.ashx.pdf
Jabeen, F., Olaru, D., Smith, B., Braunl, T., & Speidel, S. (2012). Acceptability of Electric Vehicles: Findings from a Driver Survey. Available at: https://atrf.info/papers/2012/2012_Jabeen_Olaru_Smith_Braunl_Speidel.pdf
Kulkarni, P. (2015). Review of Hybrid Electrical Vehicles. Available at: https://www.ermt.net/docs/papers/Volume_4/3_March2015/V4N3-121.pdf
Lester, L., Hendrickson, C.T., & McMichael, F.C. (1995). Environmental Implications of Electric Cars. Available at: https://www.cmu.edu/gdi/docs/environmental-implications2.pdf
Liu, J. (2015). Research on the Development Strategies of New Energy Automotive Industry Based on Car Charging Stations and Battery Management. Available at: https://www.sersc.org/journals/IJSH/vol9_no7_2015/22.pdf
Messagie, M., Lebeau, K., Coosemans, T., Macharis, C., & Mierlo, J.V. (2013). Environmental and Financial Evaluation of Passenger Vehicle Technologies in Belgium. Available at: file:///C:/Users/Otieno/Downloads/sustainability-05-05020%20(1).pdf
Pratiwi, L. (2016). Barriers and Strategies for Transition to Electric Vehicles in BRICS Countries Case Study of South Africa, India, and Brazil. Available at: file:///C:/Users/Otieno/Downloads/Master%20Thesis%20Report_Lusi%20Pratiwi.pdf
Sharma, K., Kulkarni, M.R., Veerendra, G.P., & Karthik, N. (2016). Trends and Challenges in Electric Vehicles. Available at: https://www.ijirset.com/upload/2016/may/281_%20TRENDS.pdf
Van der Steen, M. (2015). EV Policy Compared: An International Comparison of Governments’ Policy Strategy Towards E-Mobility. Available at: file:///C:/Users/Otieno/Downloads/9783319131931-c2.pdf
Weiller, C. (2015). Competing and Co-Existing Business Models for Electric Vehicles: Lessons from International Case Studies. Available at: https://www.innovation-portal.info/wp-content/uploads/2015-January-Business-Models-for-EV.pdf
Weiller, C. (2016). The Role of Plug-In Electric Vehicles with Renewable Resources in Electricity Systems. Available at: https://ise.osu.edu/isefaculty/sioshansi/papers/pev_renewables.pdf
Zhang, X., Xie, J., Rao, R., & Liang, Y. (2014). Policy Incentives for the Adoption of Electric Vehicles across Countries. Available at: file:///C:/Users/Otieno/Downloads/sustainability-06-08056.pdf
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