Home charging station: smart charging with solar panels

Mar 14, 2024 | EV

Buying a new car? Here's why you should choose electric!

Oct 25, 2023 | EV | 0 comments

More and more electric cars are driving in our country. That means more and more people are making the move to electric driving. But whence this popularity? 

If you are ready for a new car, you have probably already gazed at the current range of cars on offer. You know what's for sale. You may also be left with questions. Many well-known car brands, for instance, only largely sell hybrids or fully electric cars now. That takes some getting used to if you have always been used to driving a fuel car. Yet it is no wonder that more and more people have started driving electric in recent years. In this article, we explain why based on some major advantages. This is why switching to electric driving will be a good choice. 

Facilities are getting better and better 

The government considers it very important to encourage the purchase of eco-friendly cars. Electric vehicles do not emit CO2 while driving. In the Netherlands, a fifth of total CO2 emissions are now created by road traffic. If more people drive electric, this can be reduced considerably. 

That means they have included several things in the environmental agreement for 2030 to make electric driving more attractive. For instance, the goal is to have 1.7 million charging stations in the Netherlands by 2030. It is estimated that around 1.9 million electric vehicles will then be driving. Just for comparison, there are currently about 55,000 electric charging stations available in our country. 

The aim is that there will always be a charging station nearby should be. This makes it much less problematic to make the switch. After all, many people fear that it is more inconvenient to charge than to fill up. Moreover, there is also a logistical need for more charging stations. After all, the demand for electric vehicles is increasing considerably, so it is important that the facilities improve to avoid commotion at the charging stations. 

Did you know that the Netherlands currently leads Europe when it comes to electric vehicle facilities? Not bad for such a small country.

Affordable 

When electric cars were just emerging, we saw that prices were very high. By now, almost all manufacturers have included an electric model in their range. The supply is increasing considerably and prices may drop a bit as a result. Moreover, there are also plenty of affordable used cars with an electric drive these days. Not to mention the tax advantages. This makes electric driving increasingly affordable. 

Lower cost of fuel 

It will not have escaped anyone's notice that driving a car has become incredibly expensive in recent years. Mostly due to skyrocketing petrol prices. If you fill up a full tank now, the average car will cost between seventy-five and a hundred euros. Charging the battery of an electric car will soon cost a lot less anyway. It often saves more than half. You are even cheaper if you can charge at home. Especially in combination with solar panels. So in the long run, driving electric saves a lot on fuel costs. 

Is a plug-in hybrid car a good choice?

Aug 10, 2023 | EV | 0 comments

A plug-in hybrid car (PHEV) is a car that has both a combustion engine and an electric motor. Some people do say, the best of 2 worlds! The electric motor can be charged through a plug, giving the car an electric range. If the battery is dead, the car can still run on the combustion engine and you, don't have to worry about the nearest charging station.

More and more plug-in hybrids are entering the market but is it a smart choice? In this article, the pros and cons of a PHEV.

What are the advantages of a plug-in hybrid?

The advantages of a PHEV are:

• Lower CO2 emissions than an internal combustion engine-only car
• Lower fuel costs than an internal combustion engine-only car
• Quieter driving than an internal combustion engine-only car
• More power than a car with only an electric motor
• Discount on road tax (although this will be slowly phased out)

The disadvantages of a PHEV are:

• The purchase price is higher than an internal combustion engine-only car
• The battery should be charged regularly
• Range on electricity is limited
• The battery makes the car heavier

In general, PHEVs are a good choice for people who want a car with low CO2 emissions and lower fuel costs. Plug-in hybrids are also a good choice for people who regularly make short journeys, as they allow you to drive fully electric and save considerably on fuel.

Do you still need to fill up with a plug in hybrid?

Suppose you only make short trips and can actually drive on the electric motor all the time, is it still necessary to refuel? Unfortunately, yes. It is not possible to drive only electric, occasionally it is necessary to drive on the fuel engine. In fact, you will find that a PHEV will automatically give notification that you need to drive on fuel. In some cases, it will even give this automatically. Why is that?

Shelf life of fuel in PHEV

The shelf life of fuel in the tank depends on a number of factors, including fuel quality, temperature and humidity. Generally, fuel in a closed tank lasts about 3 months. If the tank is not completely full, water can enter the tank, reducing the fuel's shelf life. Also, the fuel may oxidise, making it burn less well.

With a plug-in hybrid car, you need to fill up less often than with an internal combustion engine-only car. This is because you can charge the car with electricity. The exact frequency of refuelling depends on how you use the car, its electric range and the availability of charging points. If you drive the car mainly electric, you might only need to refuel once a month. If you often drive the car long distances, you may need to refuel more often.

Either way, it is necessary to run on fuel regularly so that the tank runs out and you have to fill up with new fuel. This is important for preserving the engine, starter battery and other components in the car. This way, you ensure that the engine keeps running properly.

What are the financial benefits of a PHEV?

At the time of writing (2023), there is really only 1 financial benefit for plug-in hybrids (besides lower fuel consumption); road tax rebates.

Road tax is a tax you have to pay if you own a car. PHEVs with CO2 emissions of less than 50 grams per kilometre get 50% rebates on this tax. This has been extended until 2024.

Previously, there was also discount on purchase tax (BPM), lower additional taxable income and subsidy on purchase costs but this has since been abolished. These benefits now only apply to fully electric vehicles.

Is a plug-in hybrid really environmentally friendly?

PHEVs are generally more environmentally friendly than combustion-only cars, but of course they have higher emissions than fully electric cars. The CO2 emissions of a PHEV depend on how the car is used. If the car is mainly driven electrically, CO2 emissions are low. If the car is often driven long distances on the combustion engine, CO2 emissions are higher.

Research shows that in practice, the CO2 emissions of PHEVs are often higher than promised by car manufacturers. In practice, this is mainly because the range of PHEVs is limited and many people drive long distances on fuel. Because a plug-in hybrid has a heavy battery on board, it is a heavy car which naturally requires a lot of fuel. The petrol (or diesel) engine then has to work hard to reach the desired level, leading to much higher emission values than a normal petrol or diesel car.

It is therefore not for nothing that the government is phasing out tax breaks for PHEVs. In practice, these cars are not at all as environmentally friendly as the manufacturers promise, so preferential financial treatment would be misplaced.

How can you reduce the CO2 emissions of a PHEV?

If you want to buy a PHEV, it is important to be aware of the car's CO2 emissions. You can reduce a PHEV's CO2 emissions by charging the car often and by driving electric for short distances.

Here are some tips to reduce your PHEV's CO2 emissions:

• Charge the car regularly.
• Drive electric for short distances.
• Avoid driving on the internal combustion engine when not needed.
• Choose a PHEV with low CO2 emissions.

What is the measurement method for emissions?

The European Commission has developed a measurement method for the emissions of plug-in hybrid cars (PHEVs). This method is called WLTP, which stands for Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicles Test Procedure. WLTP is a harmonised test method for measuring the fuel consumption and CO2 emissions of light vehicles. The test method was developed by the International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) and the International Council for Engine Purity (SAE International).

WLTP is a more realistic test method than its predecessor, NEDC (New European Driving Cycle). NEDC was based on a theoretical driving pattern that did not match real-world conditions. WLTP is based on a driving pattern composed of a number of different driving modes, including city driving, highway driving and country roads.

WLTP is a complex testing method that costs a lot of time and money. However, the test method is necessary to get a realistic picture of the fuel consumption and CO2 emissions of PHEVs.

The European Commission has made the WLTP test method mandatory for all new PHEVs launched on the market from 1 September 2018.

At the time of writing, the European Commission is also busy working on an even more realistic measurement method of the consumption and emissions of plug-in hybrid cars. This may yet have a big impact on, for example, road tax, sales prices and availability of (new) PHEV cars. We look forward to hearing about developments!

Popular PHEVs

There are many popular plug-in hybrid cars on the market. Some of the most popular models are:

• Volkswagen Golf GTE: The Golf GTE has an electric range of 59 kilometres.
• Kia Niro Plug-in Hybrid: The Niro Plug-in Hybrid has an electric range of 62 kilometres.
• Hyundai Ioniq Plug-in Hybrid: The Ioniq Plug-in Hybrid has an electric range of 66 kilometres.
• Ford Kuga Plug-in Hybrid: The Kuga Plug-in Hybrid has an electric range of 50 kilometres.
• Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid: The RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid has an electric range of 61 kilometres.
• Mercedes C300e plug-in hybrid
• BMW 330e

What is a mild-hybrid (MHEV) car?

Aug 10, 2023 | EV | 0 comments

We regularly hear the term mild hybrid come up, what exactly does it stand for? And what are the pros and cons? Hybrid cars have grown rapidly in popularity and may be a good (and affordable) alternative to fully electric driving. By 2035, it will be illegal to market cars that emit CO2, but until then, mild hybrid and plug-in hybrid cars will still be on the market. If you are looking for a new (or second-hand) car and a mild hybrid model is on your list, you probably want to know more about what exactly a mild hybrid car is.

What types of hybrid cars are there?

First, it is important to say that a hybrid car is not the same as an electric car. All hybrid cars combine a combustion engine and an electric motor. In an all-electric car, there is no combustion engine.

First, let's take a look at what types of hybrid cars there are:

• full hybrid
• mild hybrid (or half hybrid)
• plug-in hybrid

What are the differences?

As the name suggests, hybrids are very similar yet different. All hybrids combine a combustion engine and an electric motor.

• A full hybrid car can drive small distances fully electric, but does not need to be charged at a charging station or socket. You can choose to drive fully on the electric motor and/or fully on the combustion engine. Using the fuel engine will charge the battery. Popular full hybrid models include the Toyota Prius, Lexux CT200h and Kia Niro.
• A plug-in hybrid you do need to charge and often has a larger battery and powerful electric motor, allowing you to drive longer distances fully electric. Plug-in hybrids are abbreviated to PHEV. There are more and more plug-in hybrid cars on the market, examples of plug-in and combustion engine cars include the BMW 330e, Volkswagen Golf GTE and Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV.
• A mild hybrid (or half hybrid), as the name suggests, is right at the other end of that spectrum and is simpler than a regular hybrid. You cannot drive fully electric with this but is supportive of the fuel engine. This is also called a Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle or MHEV for short. We discuss this type in more detail below:

Mild hybrid car

The addition of 'mild' means that a mild hybrid car does it in a smaller scale and less powerful way than a plug-in or full hybrid car, the main difference being in the battery. Unlike hybrids where only the battery can power the car and therefore works just like an electric car, a mild hybrid cannot. This means that besides the battery, you are always using your internal combustion engine (petrol or diesel). While this may not seem very useful, the concept has proved popular enough for many brands such as Audi, Kia, Volvo and Ford to all develop mild hybrid models.

The mechanics of a mild hybrid work just like a full hybrid, with a battery that recharges every time the car brakes. A mild hybrid car never has a plug and the battery in these cars cannot run the wheels without the engine also running.

In terms of handling, a mild hybrid offers little difference between a normal petrol or diesel car. In that sense, it is more an evolution of a standard car than a range for zero emissions. Mild hybrids, unlike electric cars, can be driven with manual transmissions. Ultimately, they offer the same driving experience people are used to, with the added support power of a battery.

Should I buy a mild hybrid car?

This naturally leads us to the next most obvious question: why do people buy a mild hybrid rather than a hybrid or fully electric vehicle? There is no advantage in terms of road tax and they don't have the ability to run purely on battery power. This is unfortunate for short drives because you will always consume fuel with MHEV. Nevertheless, for drivers who are not quite ready for the electric switch, there are a few reasons to go mild hybrid:

• Lower emissions: They are not completely emission-free, but they are better than traditional internal combustion engine cars without the added help of an electric battery. During coasting, the engine can be switched off completely and transfer the battery to help reduce fuel consumption and hence emissions.
• Lower costs: The addition of a battery means less work for the engine, thus saving fuel. For those looking for driving experience they are used to while benefiting from electric car technology, a mild hybrid is an excellent choice.
• Cheaper than a hybrid: Mild hybrids are cheaper than hybrids or electric cars, so for some they serve as a good alternative on the basis of finances alone. Of course, ideally we could all get into an electric car and be prepared for the zero-emission revolution, but in practice, mild hybrids occupy an important place in the market.
• No charging stress: Since mild hybrids never run on the electric motor alone, there is no risk of coming to a standstill somewhere along the road with a flat battery. Mild hybrids drive quietly as long as their tank is full.

Popular mild hybrid cars

There are several mild hybrid cars on the market today, some examples:

• Ford Cougar
• Ford Fiesta
• Audi A4 and A8
• Fiat 500
• Fiat Panda
• Kia Sportage
• Hyundai Tucson
• Suzuki Swift

The precise mild hybrid technology in each car varies. The Audi A8's system, for example, ensures that the engine is completely switched off for up to 40 seconds while coasting. This allows the battery to take over and deliver lower fuel consumption. In other models, such as the Suzuki Swift, the battery exists to support rather than replace the engine.

Not all cars with mild hybrids are made to be environmentally friendly. The addition of a battery means more power, so in race cars, one may be added to improve the performance of the vehicle, rather than for environmental reasons.

Is a mild hybrid car worth it?

Depending on your priorities, a mild hybrid car could be a good choice. They offer lower fuel consumption and emissions. While you will not get the zero emissions of an electric vehicle or even a full hybrid, it is certainly a step in the right direction compared to a traditional car.

Because the battery can also lead to more torque while driving, many will feel that mild hybrids allow for a smoother ride, with the engine working noticeably less during hard acceleration.

Do mild hybrids need to be charged?

No. Unlike full hybrids that come with plug-in options, you do not need to charge the battery in a mild hybrid. This is mainly because the battery is smaller than a full hybrid. Regenerative braking is enough to keep it powered. Since this means you charge the battery every time you brake, the small battery doesn't need any help to stay on sufficient power.

Are mild hybrids suitable for long distances?

A mild hybrid car works like a regular car, so there is no reason why you cannot make the same journey as with a petrol or diesel car. The difference is that you will notice that the engine sometimes works a bit harder. Unlike full electric cars that have a fixed electric range per charge, a mild hybrid does not run the risk of a dead battery stopping working. Of course, you should then remember to fill up your tank from time to time!

Electric car battery: lifespan, warranty, repair

Aug 7, 2023 | EV | 0 comments

The battery is the most important and expensive part of an electric car. It is the battery that powers the car and determines its range. The lifespan of a battery electric car is about 8 to 10 years, but this can vary depending on use and conditions.

Therefore, it is of course logical that as an EV owner you want to know: how long will the battery last? Does an EV's battery need to be replaced periodically? What guarantees does the manufacturer give? And can batteries be repaired? On this page tips and information.

How long does an electric car battery last?

In general, you can expect a long service life. Confidence in expensive batteries and manufacturer reliability is necessary for the acceptance and sale of electric cars. After all, customers know from electronic devices such as mobile phones or laptops that batteries lose performance over time and intensity of use (degradation) and need to be replaced.

The good news is that electric cars, unlike lithium-ion batteries, have intelligent battery management. This measures the temperature and voltage of each individual cell in the battery. This ensures that they do not overheat or get too cold and thus lose performance. The aim is always to protect the cell chemistry in the battery.

The systems seem to prove themselves: several endurance tests show that the first electric cars on the market can actually achieve acceptable battery life. Example BMW i3, 2014 model year: after five years and 100,000 kilometres, the battery's energy capacity was still 86 per cent. Several specialists and test organisations cautiously assume that the capacity reduction to 70 per cent will only occur after about 200,000 kilometres.

As a result of continued development to date, manufacturers - with a few exceptions - have agreed on a battery warranty of eight years and 160,000 kilometres. Lexus even gives the new UX300e 10 years and 1 million kilometres - a promise that sets new standards.

Battery electric car warranty

Unlike legal liability for material defects during the first two years, the warranty is a contractual agreement between the manufacturer and the buyer. But can you rely on the manufacturer's warranty promises? What does the small print say?

Important to know: Manufacturers always only guarantee a minimum percentage of usable battery capacity within a certain period of use. For almost all electric models, manufacturers set this lower limit at 70 per cent after eight years of use or 160,000 kilometres. For example, if a battery no longer reaches this 70 per cent capacity after six years of use after a full charge, a warranty case can be filed. If the manufacturer accepts the warranty claim, it will replace individual battery modules or replace the entire battery at its own expense.

Rules of use must be followed

Most car owners are less aware that they need to know and follow the usage rules in their electric car's user manual and warranty conditions. Otherwise, there is a risk of losing any claims. Essentially, the conditions and rules mean that the electric car should be serviced on time and according to the manufacturer's instructions.

In addition, there are additional grounds for exclusion with regard to a warranty: for example, faulty work, incompetent repair or retrofitting in the car. This includes tow bars if no trailer load is entered on the registration certificate ex-factory.

Manufacturer's instructions to charge the battery with high charging power as little as possible or not to always fully charge the battery should be understood more as a recommendation for longer battery life. Not following these recommendations does not automatically lead to exclusion from the warranty, according to the manufacturer. So read the manual and conditions carefully.

Deep discharge can compromise warranty

More problematic is the deep discharge of the battery due to longer life, even though manufacturers do not address this problem uniformly. For some manufacturers like Nissan and BMW, deep discharge is a clear reason for warranty exclusion. Other manufacturers look at these situations on a case-by-case basis, and yet others - especially the VW group - say deep discharge is excluded from the design of their vehicles.

In normal daily life, deep discharge should really hardly play a role. However, this can become relevant if you go on holiday for several weeks or if an EV is stationary for a long time. For buyers of used cars, it is therefore wise to ask how long the vehicle has been stationary and you can ask the seller for a contractual guarantee that the vehicle has not been deeply discharged and has been charged regularly.

Software updates are usually mandatory

Problems can also arise if a manufacturer's software update has been missed. If a software update is announced as a result of a recall or as a service measure, it should be considered mandatory. Non-compliance could adversely affect a subsequent warranty claim. At Tesla, implementation of a SW update is a prerequisite for granting warranty claims. And Škoda also inevitably implements software updates as part of servicing.

Clearly identifiable: improper handling of the battery

But how does the manufacturer know about improper use? When in doubt, can he prove it? The answer is clear: manufacturers know very well the history of the battery. Critical states of the electric car's battery along with environmental data are stored in the battery management system or transmitted directly online to the manufacturer. So this is often insightful for the manufacturer by reading the data.

Guarantees remain legally unclear

Even if the manufacturer's warranty sounds generous: unfortunately, from a legal point of view, it remains unclear to what extent the information in the user manual should be understood only as recommendations or as provisions relevant to the warranty. Therefore, buyers should be careful and follow the user manual. Otherwise, in case of doubt, they might depend on the goodwill of the manufacturer or even get nothing.

Cost of replacing electric car battery

If an existing car's battery pack needs to be replaced, it can be costly. A battery on a Nissan Leaf, for instance, can easily cost €5,000 and that of a Renault Zoe just under €8,000. And for a Tesla, you'll easily spend more than €15,000. So 'just' replacing an electric car battery can be quite expensive. Fortunately, with normal use, most battery packs remain in good condition for a long time. This is proven by the experience of Tesla's Model S, which has covered many hundreds of thousands of kilometres as a taxi in Amsterdam, and the first Nissan Leafs, among others. They too have now covered the necessary kilometres.

Battery test report

The battery is the most expensive part of an EV and basically wears out over time and use. The more charging cycles, the stronger the ageing. It is therefore important, even in the case of a proposed sale, that the owner knows and can objectively demonstrate the battery's state of health as accurately as possible. During regular maintenance and checks in the manufacturer's workshop, drive batteries are checked for their condition. It is therefore advisable to ask for the battery test report when servicing. In practice, many workshops do not (or do not want to) do this as standard, but it is certainly advisable to ask for it at a future service.

What buyers of electric cars can do:

• Please read the information on warranty conditions carefully.
• Have the usable battery capacity certified when new.
• Observe the operating instructions for longer battery life.
• Comply with instructions for longer downtime (charging and risk of full discharge).
• Strictly adhere to all maintenance intervals.
• Submit warranty claims immediately.
• Make it clear in advance what the costs are for checking a warranty claim.
• Always have software updates carried out during recalls or service actions.
• When buying a used car, pay attention to the warranty conditions at the time of purchase.

Battery replacement/ refurbishment

Most manufacturers launching EVs are building repair services. This will mean training workshop staff in the use of high-voltage technology. The subject was in its infancy for a long time but with the rapidly increasing number of electric vehicles, manufacturers have to keep up with the times in this. Thus, Open has set up a "Battery Refurbishment Centre" at their headquarters. Specially trained technicians take care of those cases where dealers cannot help. Think of a control unit that stopped working properly or a battery cell that is faulty. In such a case, the battery can be simply repaired and refitted.

The mechanic begins the procedure with a comprehensive diagnosis, reading the existing data and taking measurements. If necessary, the battery pack is then removed from the car and the well-screwed and carefully sealed battery housing is carefully opened. Before you can work on the modules, the circuit within the connected battery modules must be interrupted and the capacitor must be de-energised. Only then can you start removing a single module.

In the Volkswagen ID.4, for example, the largest battery consists of 12 modules, the small one of nine. Each battery module in turn consists of several units, the cells. Individual cells are not repaired, but an entire module is always replaced if it is faulty or its energy capacity is severely limited.

Of course, repairing a module is much cheaper than replacing the battery completely. A module repair, including removal and installation of the entire battery housing and checks, takes about a day. A module repair is roughly comparable to engine damage repair in terms of effort and cost. Either way, this requires training of craftsmen/women who know everything there is to know about batteries, so there is a big challenge here for the automotive industry. Also, with the surge of many Asian brands in the European market, the question is to what extent (and how fast) reperations can be carried out.

Unfortunately, manufacturers still find it difficult to give specific prices for battery repairs after the warranty has expired, even though they should be able to estimate the material and time required very well. It is hoped that manufacturers will address customer concerns in the future with transparent information on repair costs.

Top 10 electric cars with the greatest range

Jul 31, 2023 | EV | 0 comments

That the electric car can no longer be thought away from Dutch roads should be obvious. There are more and more new models on the market with an ever-increasing range. This page lists the range of fully electric models and also a list of plug-in hybrid models.

Range of electric cars

The range of an electric car is the distance a car can travel on a full battery. The range is expressed in kilometres. The range of an electric car is determined by a number of factors, such as the size of the battery, the aerodynamics of the car and the driving style of the driver.

A bigger battery means a longer range. A car with good aerodynamics consumes less energy, increasing its range. An economical driving style, such as city driving, also increases the range.

The range of an electric car is an important factor when buying an electric car. If you drive a lot, it is important to choose a car with a large range.

Range top 10 EVs

Below is a top 10 all-electric cars with the greatest range, based on the WLTP standard.

1. Lucid Air Dream Edition Range: 837 km
2. Mercedes-Benz EQS: 770 km
3. Tesla Model S Long Range: 652 km
4. BMW iX xDrive50: 630 km
5. Ford Mustang Mach-E GT Performance Extended Range: 610 km
6. Porsche Taycan Turbo S Cross Turismo: 598 km
7. Tesla Model 3 Long Range: 580 km
8. Audi e-tron GT Quattro: 590 km
9. Hyundai Ioniq 5 Long Range: 528 km
10. Kia EV6 Long Range: 528 km

The Lucid Air Dream Edition Range is the electric car with the largest range in the world. The car has a 113-kWh battery pack, allowing it to cover a distance of 837 kilometres on a full charge. In 2nd place is the Mercedex EQS and in 3rd place is the Tesla Model S Long Range with a range of 652 kilometres. The Porsche Taycan Turbo S Cross Turismo is the only SUV in the top 10 with a range of more than 500 kilometres.

The cars in the top 10 all have large battery packs and are designed for efficient driving.

Top 10 range plug-in hyrbide cars

Looking at the top 10 for plug-in hybrid cars, the list is as follows:

1. Toyota Prius Prime: 64 kilometres
2. Ford Escape PHEV: 61 kilometres
3. Hyundai Tucson PHEV: 60 kilometres
4. Kia Niro PHEV: 57 kilometres
5. Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid: 57 kilometres
6. Audi A7 TFSI e Quattro: 53 kilometres
7. BMW X5 xDrive45e: 52 kilometres
8. Volvo XC60 Recharge Plug-In Hybrid: 51 kilometres
9. Mercedes-Benz GLE 580e 4Matic: 50 kilometres
10. Porsche Cayenne E-Hybrid: 49 kilometres

The Toyota Prius Prime is the plug-in hybrid car with the greatest range. The car has an 18-kWh battery pack, allowing it to cover a distance of 64 kilometres on a full charge. The Ford Escape PHEV is in second place with a range of 61 kilometres. The Hyundai Tucson PHEV and Kia Niro PHEV rank third and fourth with a range of 60 kilometres.

The range of a plug-in hybrid car is also determined by a number of factors, including the size of the battery pack, the car's aerodynamics and the driver's driving style. A larger battery pack means a greater range. A car with good aerodynamics consumes less energy, which increases its range. An economical driving style, such as city driving, also increases the range.

Because the market is in a state of flux, these lists will constantly change and may not be up to date at the moment. Check with your dealer for the most up-to-date info!

The importance of a good charging station

Jul 27, 2023 | EV | 0 comments

With an electric car, you are constantly looking for good charging stations. You want to recharge the battery again and again. However, not all charging stations are the same. In fact, there is quite some difference in quality. You should therefore always look for charging stations The Hague that meet all your needs. But what then are the main reasons for finding the best charging station? And how to ensure reliability? After reading the information below, you will know exactly what you all need to consider.

Faster vehicle charging

A good charging station can make a significant difference in the charging speed of an electric vehicle. Modern charging stations are equipped with advanced technologies, such as fast-charging options, which enable much faster charging times compared to standard sockets. This means that drivers need to spend less time at a charging point and can charge their vehicles faster, boosting the efficiency and usability of electric driving. A good charging station therefore also provides a user-friendly experience for drivers. This includes features such as clear instructions, user-friendly interfaces and easy access to charging points. Modern charging stations can also be integrated with mobile apps and payment systems, allowing drivers to remotely monitor and pay for their charging sessions.

Greater safety thanks to a good charging station

A good charging station offers not only faster charging, but also a higher level of safety. Professional charging posts are designed and built to strict safety standards to minimise the risk of electrical failure or fire. They are equipped with protection mechanisms, such as earth leakage switches and overvoltage protection, to ensure that the charging process is safe. This gives drivers peace of mind and confidence in using the charge point. So you no longer have to worry that your car will be damaged while charging or that the battery will not have a long service life. This does matter if you want to enjoy your car for as long as possible.

Charging reliability

A good charging station is reliable and available when needed. This is especially important in case of long trips or when a driver needs to quickly recharge a flat battery. You don't want to get stranded on the road and run into other problems. A reliable charging station ensures that drivers are not stranded with a flat battery and minimises the risk of inconvenience and delays. In addition, advanced charging stations can be connected to smart networks that provide real-time information on charge point availability and status, allowing drivers to better plan their charging sessions. So you know exactly where to go for your next charging session.

More charging points in the future

With the growing popularity of electric vehicles, it is important that the charging network can grow with them and is scalable. A good charging station can be easily integrated into an existing infrastructure and can be expanded to meet growing demand. In this way, each city ensures that more and more charging stations are added, without overloading the network and making the charging stations unusable.

Plugin Hybrid Mitsubishi Eclipse and ASX

Jul 20, 2023 | EV | 0 comments

A plug-in hybrid (PHEV) car is a car equipped with both a combustion engine and an electric motor. The electric motor is powered by a battery that you charge by connecting the car to the mains, in most cases this will be a charging station. So a PHEV is a car that allows you to drive both (fully) electric and fuel.

What hybrid varieties are there?

There are three different types of hybrid cars:

• Mild hybrid: a mild hybrid car is a car that combines a combustion engine with a small electric motor. The electric motor is powered by a small battery charged by the combustion engine and by braking energy recuperation. Mild hybrid cars do not have a plug, so they cannot be charged from the mains.
• Full hybrid: a full hybrid car is a car that combines a combustion engine with an electric motor. The electric motor can drive the vehicle independently, but the combustion engine is also used to charge the battery. Full hybrid cars have a plug that you have to use to charge them.
• Plug-in hybrid: a plug-in hybrid car has a battery large enough to drive the vehicle a certain distance on electric power. This range is often limited and varies from brand to brand. However, you can charge the battery using a cable and a charging pole. You see this model more and more often on Dutch roads.

Mitsubishi hybrid models

The Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross PHEV and the Mitsubishi ASX PHEV are both plug-in hybrid cars. We briefly discuss both models below:

Eclipse Cross PHEV

With Super-All Wheel Control (4WD), this car offers excellent grip and control on any type of terrain. The combined power of 138 kW (188 hp) and maximum towing weight of 1,500 kg make this car perfect for daily use and adventurous trips. With fuel consumption of just 2.0 l/100 km (combined, WLTP) and an electric range of 45 km (WLTP), this car is also very efficient.

ASX

The new Mitsubishi ASX combines a spacious feel with advanced driving assistance systems, a high level of driving comfort and is available with different powertrains: petrol, Mild Hybrid (MHEV), Full Hybrid (HEV).

Power ranges from 91 to 159 hp, and with a maximum towing weight of 1,500 kg (1.3 DI-T 7DCT), this car is also suitable for towing heavy loads. With fuel consumption (combined, WLTP) ranging from 1.3l/100km to 5.9l/100km, this car is also very efficient.

Difference between hybrid and all-electric?

The main difference between a fully electric car and a hybrid car is that a hybrid car also has an internal combustion engine. This means that a hybrid car has a greater range than a fully electric car. However, a fully electric car can drive more economically than a hybrid car because there is no combustion engine wasting energy.

Hybrid cars are a good choice for people who want to save on fuel costs and reduce CO2 emissions. Plug-in hybrid cars are a good choice for people who often drive short distances and want to enjoy the benefits of an electric car.

Buying a used hybrid car; what to look out for?

Jun 30, 2023 | EV | 0 comments

Is it wise to buy a used hybrid car? There are many reasons why buying a hybrid is a good idea. Consider the environment, lower fuel costs or lower road tax. 

With developments of lower emissions and many subsidies, more and more hybrid electric cars (HEVs or full hybrids) can be found on the road. As a result, second-hand supply is also growing. There are many fine cars to mention, such as the BMW X3 occasion but other brands also have several hybrids in their range.

For many used car buyers, a used hybrid will be the first hybrid they have owned. So, are you going to opt for a used hybrid? Then keep the following pros and cons in mind.

Advantages of buying a used hybrid car

It goes without saying that hybrid cars offer numerous advantages, whether new or used.

• Low fuel consumption: Hybrid cars are designed to be as economical as possible, this is reflected not only in the battery but also in the ergonomic design. The dual drive chain works best at certain speeds - the electric motor at lower speeds and the combustion engine at higher speeds - so by switching from one to the other at the right time during acceleration, significant fuel savings and a reduction in harmful emissions can be achieved.
• Lower road tax: Owners of a plug-in hybrid car get 50% discount on motor vehicle tax. This only applies to cars with minimum CO2 emissions not exceeding 50 grams per kilometre. The government has extended this tax break until 2024.
• Lower BPM costs: When you register a car in the vehicle registration register, you pay BPM, or purchase tax on passenger cars and motorbikes, once. The BPM of Plug-in Hybrids is calculated on emissions. Because the combined consumption and therefore emissions are low. A PHEV often also has a lower BPM amount than a comparable petrol or diesel car with the same performance.
• Reduced emissions: Hybrid cars are undoubtedly greener than cars using only petrol or diesel, so driving a used hybrid is kinder to the environment. Full hybrids cannot be plugged in to recharge like a plug-in hybrid (PHEV), instead they generate their own electricity for the battery through regenerative braking.

The disadvantages of a used hybrid car

Of course, as with any car, there are also potential drawbacks to consider when it comes to buying a used hybrid.

• Battery life: As a hybrid car ages, the battery and hence the range naturally deteriorate. Although batteries for hybrid cars are designed to offer long life, manufacturers cannot claim that they will maintain their full performance forever. If the battery of a used hybrid is out of warranty then this can be costly. So delve into this if you are going to buy a 2nd hand hybrid.
• High mileage: Hybrid cars are understandably a popular choice among taxi drivers. However, this can lead to many used hybrid cars having significantly higher mileage than you would expect for their age. It also makes it important to double check that the mileage is correct before buying a used hybrid car.
• Maintenance can be expensive: Provided it is well maintained, a hybrid car will last as long as a traditional model. Regular maintenance on a hybrid should not be more expensive, but if a hybrid vehicle is involved in an accident, the engine and parts may be more expensive to repair and/or specialised mechanics may be needed.
• Subsidies: When you buy an all-electric car new or second-hand, you can claim subsidies. Unfortunately, this does not apply to plug-in hybrid cars.

We wish you good luck with the search and lots of driving fun!

Mobile home electric car charger: benefits and what to look out for

Jun 5, 2023 | EV | 0 comments

As an electric car owner, it is important to always have sufficient charging facilities at hand. A mobile home charger is a handy tool for this. In this article, we discuss the advantages of a mobile home charger and what to look out for when using it.

Advantages of a mobile home charger

A mobile home charger offers several advantages over other electric car charging options. Below, we have listed the main advantages for you:

Flexibility

With a mobile home charger, you can charge your electric car anywhere, as long as you have access to an outlet. This makes it possible to go on holiday with your electric car, for example, without having to worry about the availability of charging stations on the road.

Cost savings

A mobile home charger is generally cheaper than a fixed home charging station. As a result, you save on the cost of installing a charging station and the associated electricity connection.

Convenience

A mobile home charger is easy to carry and store. This means you do not always have to look for a public charging station and can simply charge your car at home.

What to look out for when using a mobile home charger

While a mobile home charger offers many advantages, there are also a number of things you need to pay attention to when using it. Below, we have listed the most important concerns for you:

Safety

It is important to use a mobile home charger that complies with safety standards. Note the CE mark and the presence of protection against overheating and short circuits.

Capacity

A mobile home charger generally has a lower capacity than a fixed charging station. As a result, your car will take longer to fully charge. Pay attention to the maximum charging capacity of the charger and the capacity of the socket you connect it to.

Compatibility

Not all mobile home chargers are suitable for all types of electric cars. Therefore, when buying a charger, pay attention to its compatibility with your type of car.

Conclusion

A mobile home charger offers many advantages for electric car owners. It offers flexibility, cost savings and convenience. However, it is important to pay attention to the safety, capacity and compatibility of the charger. With these concerns in mind, you can make the best use of a mobile home charger for your electric car.

Want to know more about electric cars and charging options? Then check out our article on the range of electric cars. This overview gives a good indication of how far you can drive with different makes and models. We regularly update the article to provide a complete overview and make choosing the right electric car easier for consumers and fleet managers. Are you missing a model? Send us an email and we will add the model.

Want to know exactly how much power is consumed when charging your EV?

Jun 2, 2023 | EV | 0 comments

When it comes to saving energy or monitoring energy consumption, it can be very useful to know exactly how much power is being consumed. This can help identify energy guzzlers in the home or in a business premises. It can also help predict energy costs and determine the best way to save energy. Examples of situations where it can be important to know how much power is being consumed include setting up solar panels, monitoring consumption in a business premises and charging electric cars.

We will show you what you need to do to make sure you know exactly how much electricity and by whom it was consumed.

Accurate measurements with the Wallbox mid meter

The Wallbox Mid Meter is a device designed to accurately track electricity readings. It is a small device that can be installed in the meter box and can read power readings and transmit them to a central system. The Wallbox Mid Meter enables accurate measurements of energy consumption. The device is suitable for different types of power connections and can be used in both households and business premises. The Wallbox Mid Meter can be connected to a central system to monitor and keep track of energy consumption. So with this meter, you can rest assured that you will never again be unclear about how much electricity has been consumed from a certain point. This is because the Wallbox Mid Meter makes it completely transparent.

The Wallbox commander 2

The Wallbox Commander 2 is a device that comes in handy when several people are tapping power from the same point. It is a smart charging station that can be used to charge multiple electric cars and keep track of their energy consumption. The Wallbox Commander 2 can be connected to the Wallbox Mid Meter to monitor and keep track of total energy consumption. The Wallbox Commander 2 can be remotely controlled and can be integrated with smart energy management systems. This allows even better optimisation of energy consumption and further energy savings. That's something that will sound good to many entrepreneurs because today's energy prices don't go easy on you.

Order your box today

If you are interested in using the Wallbox Mid Meter or the Wallbox Commander 2, you can order them from Wallbox's website. Installation of the Wallbox Mid Meter is relatively simple and can be done by a licensed electrician. Installation of the Wallbox Commander may require more expertise and is best done by a professional installer. With the Wallbox Mid Meter and the Wallbox Commander 2, you can not only take accurate measurements of energy consumption, but also optimise energy consumption and save energy. This way, you know exactly what your consumption is and you may be able to reduce your advance payment to your energy supplier.

Tesla Cybertruck, models and price?

Dec 25, 2022 | EV | 0 comments

The Tesla Cybertruck looks like it is straight out of the film series Back to Future. With an angular exterior made of scratch- and dent-resistant stainless steel, this all-electric Tesla is a real eye-catcher. As Tesla itself says, this monster is built with an armoured exterior for ultimate resistance and protection for passengers.

More info on this particular car from Tesla on this page.

When will the Tesla Cybertruck go on sale?

The Tesla Cybertruck was unveiled back in November 2019, but since its presentation, its arrival was severely delayed. On 7 April 2022, CEO Elon Musk again promised that the truck is coming and will be out by 2023.

Source : https://www.tesla.com/nl_nl/cybertruck

Tesla is preparing its factory in Texas to build the new vehicle. 'Early production' should start on a small scale in mid-2023. Production would be gradually ramped up in the following months.

Which models?

The Cybertruck will be available in three different configurations, all based on the number of electric motors each vehicle has. Although four-wheel drive is standard on all versions (except the single-engine version), each additional motor means faster acceleration, longer driving range and towing capacity.

As mentioned, the single-motor version is the only one with rear-wheel drive; the two- and three-motor models both have all-wheel drive. Tesla claims it will go from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.5 seconds and reach a top speed of 110 km/h. The two-motor Cybertruck will reportedly reach 100 km/h in just 4.5 seconds and have a top speed of 200 km/h. In the case of the three-motor version, Tesla says it will essentially go from zero to 100 km/h in 2.9 seconds (!) with a top speed of 210 km/h.

All Cybertrucks have an adjustable air suspension that can be raised or lowered while driving and offers up to 16 inches of ground clearance. Add that to its approach angle of 35 degrees and departure angles of 28 degrees and the Tesla pick-up could prove to be a formidable off-road machine.

Tesla Cybertruck models

Herewith a list of the models:

• The Single Motor RWD only has an engine on the rear axle, allowing it to tow about 3,175 kilos. It has a range of about 400 kilometres and a sprint from 0-96 km/h (60 mp/h) goes in 6.5 seconds.
• The Dual Motor AWD has an engine on each axle and can therefore tow about 4,536 kilos. This version has a range of about 480 kilometres and does a 0-96 km/h sprint in 4.5 seconds.
• The Tri Motor AWD has three motors distributed among the axles. With that, it tows more than 6,350 kilos and has a range of about 800 kilometres. A sprint from 0-96 km/h is ridiculously fast: 2.9 seconds.

Already curious to see what it looks like in real life? Then watch the video of Elon Musk's 2019 presentation below:

Range of the Tesla Cybertruck

Tesla has not yet officially revealed the size of the batteries that will come in the Cybertruck. However, each model will get a 250-kW charging cable. Of course, it will also get access to Tesla's extensive network of Superchargers. The driving range varies with the number of motors, but Tesla claims that the single motor will have a range of more than 400 kilometres, the dual motors a range of more than 300 kilometres, and the top-level three-motor setup should be able to reach more than 500 kilometres.

Since no real-world experience can be shared yet, we can only rely on Tesla's preliminary estimates. So we will have to wait until we get our hands on a real production model to test its ambitious maximum driving range on the real road.

Interior Cybertruck

Anyone who thought the interior of the Tesla Model 3 was minimalist will relive that reaction quite a bit when seeing the Cybertruck's spartanly decorated cabin. While many standard features and options have yet to be revealed, initial images show a slab-like dashboard dominated solely by a single large touchscreen. The square steering wheel appears to have some kind of illuminated display, but nothing is confirmed. The Cybertruck also seats up to six people, and the 2-metre-high cargo box offers a very large space. It also has a handy retractable tailgate that you can use for all sorts of applications.

As with most of the interior, specific details about the Cybertruck's infotainment system are largely a mystery. However, we do know that each model will have a large 17-inch touchscreen mounted horizontally in the centre of the dashboard.

Tesla Cybertruck price known?

A more important figure we all want to know is the Dutch price. Of course, that was not yet told during the presentation, although Musk did let it be known that the Single Motor RWD will cost less than $40,000. With the current exchange rate, that's about 37-38,000 Euros. But given rising prices, this is likely to be higher once the Cybertruck is available in the European market.

In any case, we are very curious to see when we will encounter this beast on Dutch roads for the first time!

For more info, visit the site of Tesla.

What is a fast charger and what are its advantages?

Dec 9, 2022 | EV | 0 comments

E-mobility is becoming increasingly popular. More and more people are opting for electric driving, which is why more and more charging stations are available. One of these solutions is a fast charger, or also called a supercharger. But what exactly is this?

What is a rapid charger (DC charger)?

A quick charger, or DC charger, stands for Direct Current (DC) and is used to charge electric cars at higher voltages than AC charging points. This charging is usually done through a CCS connection, which allows power to be fed directly to the car's battery. As a result, battery capacity and driving range can be recharged to 80% in a short time. This makes it possible to continue driving within a short time.

Superchargers

These superchargers are especially well suited to EVs with high power (25 to 375 kW) and high efficiency, allowing an EV to be charged faster. Because DC chargers are more expensive than a regular AC charger (up to 22 kW), they are particularly interesting in places where the average car, van or truck is parked for a short time but needs to be charged quickly. Think, for example, of public places such as at a hotel, shop car parks or, for example, transport companies.

They are therefore called superchargers, you may also know them from Tesla who have placed Tesla Superchargers in many places in Europe especially for Tesla drivers.

Advantages of a quick charger

One of the advantages is that the charging process is many times faster than at AC charging points.

There are also other benefits, such as:

• The payload can be adjusted according to need;
• Charging stations are often located in practical public places, so you don't need to have a charging station at home;
• Less frequent charging is needed, as more energy can be supplied in a short time;

Alternatives to fast charging: AC charging

Besides DC chargers, there are other alternatives for charging electric cars. For instance, there is AC charging. This is charging with Alternating Current (AC). This charging method is mainly seen as home charging and delivers a lower voltage than a DC fast charger. A Alfen charging station is an example of a charging station that can offer this power and is suitable for any electric car.

The big difference between AC and DC charging is that the latter form of charging is much faster, hence, of course, the name fast charging. A full battery can be charged in about 8 hours with an 11 kW AC charging station at home. This time depends on the capacity and type of car you have.

AC charging is also cheaper than fast charging, but there are some drawbacks. For instance, charging takes much longer and you cannot use extra features such as heating the battery. Also, it is not possible to charge a car with AC charging when you are on the road.

Conclusion

Fast charging is a common way to charge electric cars, where power can be fed back to the battery in a short period of time. There are several advantages to fast charging, such as the fact that it requires less frequent charging and that the power can be adjusted based on need. However, as mentioned, you will mostly come across these fast chargers in public places and not so soon at home at someone's wall. This is mainly due to the high cost of purchase.

So as an alternative, there is the well-known AC charging station which is usually used in home situations. The main difference is that these charging posts charge at a lower capacity and are cheaper per kWh.

Vehicle charging with own charging station, what work is involved?

Nov 23, 2022 | EV | 0 comments

That more and more people are driving electric should be obvious. Because of this increase, it also happens regularly that the public charging points in the neighbourhood are increasingly occupied. As a result, you cannot charge your electric car, which means you cannot go to work the next day. Very annoying, of course! However, there are ways to solve this of which the most obvious is: by installing a charging station (or charging stations with multiple cars) be installed at home. As there are several variants of the posts on the market, you can fully adapt the charging post to your situation. Before you can start using the charging station, however, some work needs to be carried out. But what work should you think about before installation?

The models and their own work

If you want to have your charging stations installed, it is first important to know which model you are buying. There are free-standing models, which you need to place in the ground, and also wall-mounted charging stations. It depends on the available space which model you choose. Once you have chosen the model, you can also see what additional work is required for installation. For a freestanding variant, for example, you need to do some digging. You will need to place the pole in the ground and the cables will also have to go through the ground to your meter box. So this can take extra time compared to the wall-mounted boxes that you can use as charging points.

Making the distribution board safe for use

During installation, changes should also be made to the distribution board. The number of groups is often not enough to connect all electrical appliances and a charging station can carry a lot of load. A professional will therefore install an extra group and modify the meter box in such a way that it is safe enough for you to use all electrical appliances at the same time. This will prevent you from still being unable to charge your car or from not having all the conveniences in the house and everything around it. However, it does involve extra work to take into account.

No unexpected extra charges with recharging

Once you have installed the charge post, you can use it immediately. Using the corresponding charging card, which is linked to your bank account, you activate the post. You connect the corresponding cable between the charging station and the car and it will immediately start charging. As soon as your electric car has a full battery, the post will switch off again. The security on each charging station ensures that no one else can use your charging station, so you won't incur unexpectedly high costs. All you can do is enjoy the conveniences you get with your charging station.

Pros and cons of charging your car at home

Oct 17, 2022 | EV | 0 comments