An Alternative Battery Locating Approaches for Weight Distributions of Electric Vehicles

Abstract

Nowadays, electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming increasingly important. Most prevailing EV models feature similar structures, allocating batteries and motors, bringing similar weight distributions. This leads to similar dynamics among EVs compared to those between internal combustion engine cars. However, unique weight distribution and driving dynamics are the major features of special automobile models, and many of those models have not been electrified. This research aims to discuss the possibility of achieving unique weight distribution with EVs. The following approach is taken by this paper: the weight of body materials and batteries are collected, and various criteria are evaluated upon different designs regarding body design and battery allocation. The research finds out that when car models are electrified, solutions do exist for maintaining their characteristic weight distributions, with the center of gravity closer to the rear axle for middle engine rear wheel drive cars. Keeping the characteristic weight distributions can keep the unique driving dynamics, which have been selling points of sports cars, of the models when they are electrified, despite inevitable expenses from multiple aspects. The solution could be accomplished more easily in the future if breakthroughs take place in battery developments and the cost of lightweight materials is cut down. The research innovatively prioritizes keeping the characteristic driving dynamics of sports cars when the models are being electrified and provides a comprehensive understanding of the possibilities and tradeoffs of the approach for manufacturers that are experiencing electrification.