What Auto Mechanics Should Know About Advances in Hybrid and Electric Charging Stations
Just a decade ago, not many people took the idea of electric vehicles seriously, with the exception of some passionate environmental lobbyists. However, the growth of the electric vehicle market has exceeded our expectations, with a predicted 508 million of them set to be driving around worldwide by 2030. Given the exponential growth we’ve been seeing in the industry, that figure might even be an underestimate, leaving many wondering whether the infrastructure and resources used for charging these vehicles will be able to keep up. Ever since EVs hit the market, concerns around driving range, battery charging speed and battery quality have been circulating; however, technology has been rapidly advancing to resolve these concerns and speed up the adoption of EVs.
If you’re considering a career as a hybrid and electric vehicle mechanic, the technological advancements being made within the EV industry will likely affect your role in the coming years. Below, explore a few exciting new developments that are underway to improve electric vehicle charging.
Every Auto Mechanic Should Be Aware of the New Energy Sources Being Used
Some of the latest EV charging innovations sound like they’ve come right out of a sci-fi movie. As a future auto mechanic, you’ll want to be aware of the new energy sources being used to power EVs, as you’ll have to confidently diagnose problems related to these energy sources and repair them. For one, solar panels have become more efficient at using energy from the sun and though they’ve been commonly used on buildings, they’re even being installed on the roofs of EVs. Though they are not yet advanced enough to power vehicles on their own, they could offer EVs an energy boost, making the charging process much more efficient and convenient for drivers. In addition, we can expect infrastructure to accommodate EV charging, with proposals to place energy sources underneath roads in order to charge EVs as they drive.
More Charging Stations Means Convenience for Your Clients
Despite the fact that most EV charging occurs overnight at home, municipalities across the globe and here in Canada are experimenting with ways to provide more EV charging stations. With these initiatives, the hope is that convenience and accessibility will encourage more drivers to make the switch. For example, the city of Vancouver is looking to add 36 additional charging stations in ten locations and charge gas stations and parking lots $10,000 a year for failing to provide electric charging stations for their customers. Efforts like these likely mean that more Canadians will likely dip their toes into the electric vehicle industry, requiring a hybrid and electric vehicle mechanic to service their cars.
Higher Quality Batteries Will Decrease Concerns Over Driving Range
In addition to installing more charging stations, the quality of batteries used in EVs has already begun to improve. Today, most modern EVs are capable of charging up to 80% within 30 minutes, in comparison to several hours just a few years ago. While it still only takes about three minutes to fill up a car at a gas station, experts predict that soon, EV chargers will be just as fast.
If the advancements in renewable energy and electric vehicle technology fascinate you, you’ll likely be interested in learning about the mechanics of EV battery pack design and other energy storage systems. During ATC’s Hybrid Technology Training program in Vancouver, you’ll learn about the many advancements being made in the process of charging EVs, as well as how to service and repair these vehicles of the future.
Interested in our hybrid and electric mechanic course?
Contact ATC Surrey to get started today!
