Ford-MIT Alliance: Solving Capacity Problems with Ultracapacitors

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In summary, a new ultracapacitor technology developed by the Ford-MIT Alliance could potentially replace batteries for storage capacity. It is expected to be available in the market in five to ten years and is targeted for use in hybrid vehicle transportation. However, some remain skeptical until a working model is built. While there have been many attempts to replace conventional batteries, lithium-ion remains the main contender, with the French "Venturi Fetish" leading the field. This technology boasts impressive performance, with an acceleration of 0-60MPH in 4.2 seconds. Overall, the article is considered interesting by the speaker and they thank LURCH for sharing it.
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LURCH
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The problem of being competitiev with batteries for sorage capacity may be licked! The Ford-MIT Alliance has deveoped a http://web.mit.edu/erc/spotlights/ultracapacitor.html" tat might be a viable replacement for batteries. It should be ready for market in five to ten years, and Hybrid vehicle transportation (the field in which I hope to work) is one of the targetted applications.
 
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I'll be impressed when he has actually built one as opposed to building some of the components that may one day go into one.
How many times have new power sources spelt the end for the conbventional battery? I'm still driving round in a petrol car with a big lump of lead acid to provide starting power.
Li-Ion is still the only real contender for electric, with the French "Venturi Fetish" leading the field IMHO. 0-60MPH in 4.2sec is a bit better than your average golf cart.
 
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Interesting article. Thanks LURCH.
 

Related to Ford-MIT Alliance: Solving Capacity Problems with Ultracapacitors

1. What is the Ford-MIT Alliance and why was it formed?

The Ford-MIT Alliance is a research partnership between Ford Motor Company and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). It was formed to address key challenges in the automotive industry, such as improving fuel efficiency and reducing emissions.

2. What are ultracapacitors and how do they differ from traditional batteries?

Ultracapacitors are energy storage devices that store and release energy through the physical movement of ions. They differ from traditional batteries in that they have a higher power density, meaning they can charge and discharge more quickly, and they have a longer lifespan.

3. How can ultracapacitors help solve capacity problems in the automotive industry?

Ultracapacitors have the potential to improve the efficiency and range of electric vehicles by providing a more efficient way to store and release energy. They can also help reduce the strain on traditional batteries, extending their lifespan and reducing the need for frequent replacements.

4. What are the potential drawbacks of using ultracapacitors in vehicles?

One potential drawback is that ultracapacitors have a lower energy density compared to traditional batteries, meaning they cannot store as much energy. This may limit the range of electric vehicles using ultracapacitors as their primary energy storage system.

5. What are the current research and developments in ultracapacitor technology?

Researchers at the Ford-MIT Alliance are currently exploring ways to increase the energy density of ultracapacitors, making them a more viable option for use in electric vehicles. They are also investigating how to integrate ultracapacitors with traditional batteries to create a hybrid energy storage system that combines the benefits of both technologies.

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