Electric vehicles might just be taking over the roads. The EV industry is growing continuously, year after year, and is currently valued at $250 million. There are currently more than 10 million electric vehicles on the road today and over six million plug-in electric vehicles are sold each year. As the world turns its attention to EVs, it’s important to know how its individual parts work to create such dynamic vehicles.
EV Battery Charging Cables
The car EV charger is probably the one piece of equipment that most people associate with EVs. Without it, you may not be able to charge your vehicle. While some public chargers come with cables, others require users to bring their own. Further, if you want to charge from your home, as Level 1 & 2 charging stations allow, you’ll need your own cable.
Variety of Brake Fluid Choices
Brake fluid is essential to keeping all the parts of the brake system working at maximum efficiency. Electric vehicles, like traditional internal combustion engine vehicles, have brake pedals, hydraulic brakes and disc brake calipers that clamp the rotors to help the vehicle to slow and stop. Brakes in electric vehicles can last for over 100,000 miles, especially when you use the dealer-recommended brake fluid.
DC-DC Converter
While the battery delivers constant voltage to different parts of the vehicle, they each have different needs. The DC-DC converter distributes the output power to all areas to the required level and also provides the voltage required to charge the auxilliary battery.
Thermal System
Like traditional vehicles, EVs must have a system to keep the components that are operating from becoming too hot. The thermal management system is responsible for maintaining a safe operating temperature for all of the vehicle’s components.
Power Inverter
When electric vehicles employ AC motors, the energy from the battery must be converted for use. Aside from accomplishing this, the power inverter also operates when the vehicle is using regenerative braking.
Charging Port
You’ll need a durable and reliable receptacle to enable the charging cable to connect to the charging port. Replacements often come ready to assemble and solder into your leads and include a dust and moisture-tight cap.
Adaptors
There are dozens of EV adaptors available today from a variety of suppliers. Having the right adaptor could be the difference between being able to charge at a public charging station and remaining empty. It’s also a good idea to keep auxilliary batteries on hand as well as a controller.
Charging Station Parts
When setting up a home charging station, you’ll want a stand and wall mount, as well as a wall mount dock for the nozzle of your charger. A cable bag will ensure that the integrity of your cable is intact while on the go.
If you own an electric vehicle, you’ll likely ask, at some point, where can I find an EV charger near me? They can be found at your local auto parts store. In fact, EV parts are appearing on the proverbial shelves with increasing frequency. However, besides the battery and charger, there are lots of other things that you’ll need. Visit an auto parts store today to learn more about, or pick up, the essential EV parts and accessories that will help your EV run smoothly and efficiently.
