Re: EVrelated(42v system, future conversion concerns)-long

["PETER VANDERWAL" <peterv@peoplepc.com>]

> I must be missing something here: I though the battery in an ICE
> is primarily there to *start* the ICE; once running, the alternator
> supplies *all* the electrical requirements of the vehicle and
> recharges the starting battery.  If future Gadgetmobiles require
> 3x the power of today's vehicles, it seems that it could simply
> mean fitting a larger capacity (and more efficient!) alternator.
>

Yes probably except that means that your wiring must handle 3x the current
(bigger, more expensive wires) and besides it's usually easier to make
things more efficient if you run a higher voltage (lower I2R losses).  This
means that not only will the alternator be more efficient but all of the
accessory motors will be too.  And since the motors/alternator will be
running at reduced current levels, they can use smaller wires etc. which
means they too can be smaller, lighter and therefor cheaper.

That means the auto maker saves money and will charge you more because it's
"New and Improved!"