A Review of Range Extender Technologies in Electric Vehicles

Evelyn, Evelyn; Aziz, A. Rashid A.; Sambegoro, Poetro Lebdo · 2020 · OpenAlex-citations

DOI: 10.31427/ijstt.2020.3.1.2

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Summary

This review paper addresses the challenge of overcoming the limited driving range of Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) while maintaining low emissions, a problem driven by stringent global regulations such as the Paris Climate Agreement and emission standards in China and the EU. The authors identify Extended-Range Electric Vehicles (EREVs) as a viable middle ground between pure BEVs, which offer zero emissions but suffer from range anxiety and charging infrastructure limitations, and Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs), which offer better range but retain higher emissions. The study evaluates various Range Extender (RE) technologies—auxiliary power units that generate electricity to charge the battery without directly driving the wheels—to determine the optimal configuration based on efficiency, emissions, and practicality. The paper categorizes and analyzes three primary types of range extender technologies: Internal Combustion Engines (ICE), Fuel Cells, and Microturbines. Within the ICE category, the authors examine Free Piston Engines (FPE), Wankel engines, and conventional Otto cycle engines. FPEs are noted for eliminating crankshaft friction and allowing optimized piston motion, though they face challenges in starting mechanisms. Wankel engines offer high volumetric power density and low weight but suffer from poor fuel economy and high emissions due to sealing and heat loss issues. Conventional Otto cycle engines, such as those developed by Lotus and Mahle, are the most common and mature technology, capable of extending range by over 400 km with minimal weight addition, but they rely on fossil fuels and produce harmful emissions. The review further assesses Fuel Cells and Microturbines as alternative solutions. Fuel cells, powered by hydrogen, provide zero emissions and rapid refueling comparable to fossil fuels, making them ideal for maintaining the zero-emission characteristic of BEVs. However, their adoption is hindered by the limited availability of hydrogen refueling infrastructure, particularly in rural and developing areas. Microturbines, such as the Capstone C30, offer compact packaging, high reliability due to fewer moving parts, and lower emissions of hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide compared to ICEs. Despite these advantages, microturbines are characterized by lower overall efficiency and high acquisition costs, especially for compact designs lacking cooling systems. The authors conclude that no single range extender technology is universally superior; rather, the optimal choice depends on specific constraints including fuel availability, space requirements, and efficiency targets. ICEs remain the most accessible option due to existing infrastructure, while fuel cells offer the best environmental profile if infrastructure improves. Microturbines provide a compact, low-emission alternative but are cost-prohibitive. The paper suggests that EREVs, potentially utilizing rental RE units for occasional long-distance travel, offer a pragmatic solution to bridge the gap until battery technology and charging networks mature sufficiently to support widespread BEV adoption.

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• v2x connected vehicle