Electric Car Help: Calculating Horsepower Needed

In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of an electric car and its energy source, as well as the necessary information to determine the horsepower required for driving at a constant speed. The key information needed for solving the problem is the car's mass, number of batteries, average speed, and friction force. The solution involves using the formula for power and converting it into horsepower.
  • #1
gamer6218
2
0
electric car help :)

A projected electric vehicle makes use of storage batteries as its source of energy. Its mass is 1560 kg and it is powered by 24 batteries, each 12 V, 95 A hr. Assume that the car is driven on level roads at an average speed of 32.4 km/hr and the average friction force is 240 N. Assume 100% efficiency and neglect energy used for acceleration. No energy is consumed when the vehicle is stopped, since the engine doesn’t need to idle. Determine the horsepower required.
 
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  • #2
You need to show what sorts of concepts you would use to solve this problem and an attempt at a solution before we can help. I will tell you that you don't need all of the information you are given. Which info is necessary and which isn't?
 
  • #3
A simple force*velocity = power, converted into horsepower seems to work. seems I posted prematurely. Sorry for that :(
 
  • #4
Right you are.
 

1. What is the difference between horsepower and torque?

Horsepower is a measure of the rate at which work is done, while torque is a measure of the twisting force generated by an engine. In simple terms, horsepower is how fast a car can go, and torque is how quickly it can get there.

2. How do you calculate the horsepower needed for an electric car?

To calculate the horsepower needed for an electric car, you need to know the weight of the vehicle, the desired acceleration, and the desired top speed. You can then use the formula: horsepower = (weight x acceleration) / (375 x top speed). This will give you the minimum horsepower needed for the car to meet your performance requirements.

3. Can the horsepower needed for an electric car vary depending on the type of motor?

Yes, the type of motor used in an electric car can affect the horsepower needed. For example, a car with a single motor will typically require more horsepower than a car with dual motors, as the dual motors can distribute the workload and provide more power overall.

4. Is there a maximum horsepower limit for electric cars?

There is no set maximum horsepower limit for electric cars. However, the higher the horsepower, the more energy will be required to power the car, which can affect its range and efficiency. Manufacturers typically aim for a balance between performance and energy efficiency when determining the horsepower for an electric car.

5. How does the weight of the battery affect the horsepower needed for an electric car?

The weight of the battery can significantly impact the horsepower needed for an electric car. A heavier battery will require more power to move the car, resulting in a higher horsepower requirement. This is why manufacturers are constantly working to develop lighter and more efficient batteries to improve the performance of electric cars.

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