Commentary
Florian Misoc
Abstract
From the first electric automobile built in 1888 (Flocken Elecktrowagen) to the present electric cars build by Nissan, Chevrolet, or Tesla Motors, the need to periodically recharge the vehicles’ batteries is still a challenge. Besides the battery charging process, recharging stations and the power electronics needed to optimize the energy transfer to the electric vehicles’ batteries, the question of electric power availability is inevitable. The authors of this study do not intend to emphasize the approaching end of petroleum and coal resources, facts already known; instead it is focused on the electric energy generation and consumption. The energy cycle of supply and demand has currently reached a dangerous level. Aside from the well-known fact that the world’s oil resources are nearly exhausted, the feasibility of a complete electrification in transportation is questionable. This study is based solely on the official data, publicly available, and considers the best-case scenario, as well as the worst-case scenario, with regard to implementation of electric vehicles as sole mode of transportation. The predicted electric power demand is factored in, based on national statistics and demographic trends, as the comparative study explores the possible changes in the transportation industry, based on current state of the art technology. The authors of this study refrain from making any predictions or prognosis vis-à-vis economic impact based solely on the conclusions expressed in this herein.