World · India Bureau
NIT Rourkela's hybrid energy system extends EV battery lifespan
Researchers at the National Institute of Technology, Rourkela have developed a patented hybrid energy system that pairs electric vehicle batteries with supercapacitors to improve performance and longevity in low-voltage vehicles. The innovation addresses a critical challenge in EV adoption by reducing battery stress during peak power demands.
LSN India ·
The hybrid system developed by NIT Rourkela engineers integrates a supercapacitor alongside a conventional EV battery to manage sudden surges in power demand. By distributing load between the two components, the system prevents the battery from bearing the full brunt of instantaneous power requirements, thereby reducing thermal and electrochemical stress on the battery pack.
Supercapacitors, which can rapidly charge and discharge without degradation, serve as a complementary power source during acceleration and other high-demand scenarios. This approach allows the primary battery to operate within optimal parameters for a longer duration, effectively extending the vehicle's battery lifespan and reducing overall maintenance costs.
The patented technology is particularly suited for low-voltage electric vehicles commonly used in urban and semi-urban settings across India. As the country accelerates its transition toward electric mobility, innovations that enhance battery durability and reduce replacement costs could prove instrumental in making EVs more economically viable for consumers and fleet operators.
The development underscores India's growing research capabilities in clean energy solutions and positions NIT Rourkela as a contributor to the nation's sustainability goals. The hybrid system has potential applications beyond personal vehicles, with relevance for commercial electric transport and last-mile delivery vehicles increasingly deployed in Indian cities.