On Thu, Jun 27, 2013 at 4:11 PM, Scott Ritchey <ritche...@nc.rr.com> wrote:
> > Does anyone know the long-term issues of the batteries in these cars? When > will the battery require replacement? What does that cost? What are the > I don't know specifically for the newer cars, but per the folks who have done manual conversions: http://www.diyelectriccar.com/forums/showthread.php/evdl-real-world-lithium-battery-lifespani-72611.html TL;DR 10 years or 100Kmi, they were looking at $6K-$8K for retail lithium prices last year. Note that they aren't doing engine oil/belt/etc. changes and so on (since they are just turning everything directly) so that is the primary maintenance cost for a true EV. Most conversions have transmissions and therefore normal transmission maintenance, I'm not sure about true manufactured EVs. > environmental issues in battery recycling/disposal? Meh, who cares about the environment? :) Seriously, the electric motor is much more efficient at getting power to the wheels, and big power plants are more efficient than little ones. There was a study (I posted it a long time ago, in the archives) where a Swiss group found that EVs were slightly worse than IC engines, as long as you account for the environmental impact of mining battery materials and making and disposing of the batteries, assume all power is generated by 1980s coal plants, and do not account for the environmental impact of drilling for and refining oil. I figure that means EVs are overall a net positive environmentally, though to be honest my primary interest has been in the wallet benefit (hence I have not yet bought one). Best, -Tim _______________________________________ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://mail.okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
