British firm’s rapid-charging EV sports car
As we celebrate our 100th birthday, Brit European Transport continues to Drive Innovation and look to the future.
A big part of this future for our industry and elsewhere is the development of EV (Electric Vehicle) technology and capability. News of developments in this area is ever-changing, and a UK firm is at the forefront of progress in the field.
Nyobolt, a UK-based engineering firm, is making significant strides in the electric vehicle (EV) sector with its ultra-fast-charging and durable battery technology. Their latest achievement involves testing this technology in a drivable prototype based on the iconic S1 Lotus Elise, originally designed by Julian Thomson.
Key Features of the Nyobolt EV Concept:
- Power and Weight:
- Power: The concept boasts 470bhp.
- Weight: It maintains a lightweight build at 1246kg, similar to a Renault Clio, despite its powerful electric drivetrain.
- Battery Performance:
- Capacity: The prototype features a 35kWh battery.
- Charging Speed: It can charge from 10-80% in just 4 minutes and 37 seconds using a 350kW charger. This is notably twice as fast as the quickest charging EVs currently available.
- Durability: After 4000 full fast-charge cycles, equivalent to about 600,000 miles, the battery retains over 80% of its capacity. This longevity surpasses the warranties of most larger EV batteries today.
- Applications and Benefits:
- The technology is ideal for “high-uptime” EVs requiring high power and rapid recharge cycles, potentially transforming various sectors beyond automotive, such as robotics and off-highway vehicles.
- The compact and lightweight battery packs enhance vehicle performance and efficiency, aligning with Nyobolt’s vision of reinvigorating the EV segment with dynamic and lightweight powertrains.
Collaboration and Production Plans:
- Design Collaboration: Nyobolt collaborated with Warwick-based design agency Callum, known for the Skye EV sports car, to engineer the prototype for potential low-volume production.
- Production Goals: Nyobolt aims to start low-volume battery production this year, with plans to ramp up to 1000 units next year. The long-term goal is to reach an annual production capacity of two million units using a flexible manufacturing model.
Market Potential and Industry Interest:
- OEM Engagement: The unveiling of the prototype has accelerated discussions with original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), with eight vehicle manufacturers currently showing interest.
- Market Focus: Initially targeting the premium segment, Nyobolt also sees potential in the enthusiast and performance sectors. The technology is well-suited for track day cars and applications requiring high uptime, such as off-highway vehicles and manufacturing robotics.
Vision and Future Applications:
- CEO’s Insights: Sai Shivareddy, Nyobolt’s co-founder and CEO, emphasized the technology’s potential to solve key issues in EV adoption. He highlighted the suitability of their fast-charging technology for high-duty cycle applications, including track day cars and off-highway vehicles.
- Beyond Automotive: Nyobolt is set to announce applications in robotics, benefiting the manufacturing and supply chain sectors with their high-efficiency, durable batteries.
Nyobolt’s innovations could mark a significant advancement in EV battery technology, offering a blend of ultra-fast charging, long life, and lightweight construction. This could revolutionize not only the automotive industry but also various sectors reliant on efficient and durable battery systems.
*picture shown not actual vehicle
**story first published by AutoCar credit Felix Page