How EVs with two batteries help lessen range anxiety

26 Apr 2023

In recent years, the electric two-wheeler segment in India has witnessed a meteoric rise in popularity. E2W manufacturers have put forth innovative, modern and compelling products, making the best of peaking consumer interest, while moving ahead decisively on the journey towards cleaner mobility.

The busting of prevalent myths around electrification in the past few years, combined with customer awareness, has played a significant role in the growth of the sector. Today, we stand at an exciting juncture of bossibilities in the industry, with growing diversification in product offerings. One of the more recent innovations in the field of two- wheelers is with respect to dual batteries. Yet, as with any disruptive change, there exist some apprehensions about this new technology. Let us take a more comprehensive look at why dual batteries are not only safe but can become game-changers for the electric two-wheeler industry.

Is it safe?

First things first, does having a dual battery pack decrease the safety of the vehicle? No. Batteries for vehicles are chemically constructed such that they provide stability and charge without any volatility. Past accidents have pushed the Indian government to recommend several quality restrictions on the batteries used in electric scooters. Norms such as the Automotive Industry Standards (AIS-156) for two- wheelers mandate the inclusion of battery management software to ensure safety and detect any faults in batteries.

As long as such standards are adhered to and the chemistry and integrity of the battery is not compromised, having dual batteries is absolutely safe. Further, automakers are consistently making advancements in smart technology to further supplement safety.

Elementary changes, promising impact

Dual battery two-wheelers can come in different options- the two batteries may both be fixed, or be removable, or like in the case of a vehicle like Simple One, consists of one fixed and one removable battery. Irrespective, the fundamental motive behind having dual battery technology is two-fold. The first involves the expanded range two batteries provide. Efficient charging methods devised by manufacturing companies can help make the best of this feature, permitting riders to go those extra couple of miles with confidence.

Secondly, dual batteries, particularly, the setup of having removable batteries, can help significantly in situations where the vehicle runs out of charge and no charging station is in the near vicinity. Instead of tediously having to push the two-wheeler to a station, the rider can just plug in the replaceable battery and ride to the station. In the current landscape when the charging infrastructure in India is still developing, such a technology can go a long way in alleviating customer anxiety about being stranded.

An outlook for the future

Of course, with changes like dual battery packs, some factors, like affordability and design, must be moderated reasonably. Simple One's technology uses fixed and portable combination in order to enhance performance. Keeping the users in mind when innovating is crucial, and all new technologies in this sector are typically devised in their best interest.

As we edge towards an exciting future, remaining cognizant of emerging technologies, and staying in constant touch with customers to help them gain a deeper understanding of what such innovations entail, will play an instrumental role in ascertaining success.