EV Innovation: Local Motors Announces 3D Printed Electric Car

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Electric vehicles have long been at the forefront of transportation technology. Every year battery technology improves, cars become more stylish and functional, charging stations become more widespread, and consumers become more receptive to fully-embracing clean transportation options. Consequently, it should come as no surprise that the EV market has just been rocked by another innovation; the 3D printed electric car.

Local Motors has just announced plans to deliver a 3D printed car to the International Manufacturing Technology Show in Chicago later this year. It will be one of the first electric cars to be “printed” using additive manufacturing, thus unlocking brand new avenues for innovation amongst electric vehicles. 

While the 3D printed electric vehicle will likely be relegated to a niche segment of the electric vehicle market for now, it nevertheless underlines the exciting technological innovations taking place in the EV market every year. It also highlights why investing in EV charging stations has become so popular with companies looking to convey a cutting edge, 21^st century image while providing an increasingly popular service for a growing segment of the automobile market.

A Primer on 3D Printing

3D printing is a manufacturing process that has actually been around since the 1980s. However, it wasn’t until 2010 when 3D printing technology vastly improved and become more economically viable. The premise behind 3D printing is to send printing specifications to a printer, which can then use various raw inputs to produce a three dimensional end product. 

Some common household applications for a 3D printer are making vases, cups and basic consumer goods. However, 3D printing has been deployed in more complex manufacturing processes such as constructing houses, making furniture, and now, building cars. 

Some of the benefits of 3D printing are that it can reduce construction costs, drastically cut-down manufacturing design, and allow for easy design adjustments via software. While 3D printing technology is still very much in its infancy, it will be interesting to see where the technology will be 20 years from now.

Local Motors’ 3D Printed Electric Vehicle

Local Motors still has some time before the Chicago Technology Show in September, so it hasn’t revealed all the technical aspects of its 3D printed car. However, it will be using advanced manufacturing techniques and material science from the Manufacturing Demonstration Facility at Oak Ridge National Laboratory to produce the world’s first direct digital manufactured vehicle. 

The car will be uniquely customized to suit the streets of Chicago. This local orientation suits the company’s overall automobile vision – to create cars that are uniquely customized to fit in with their local landscape. And perhaps 3D printing technology is the best, most efficient way to accomplish such a locally oriented electric vehicle.

Local Motors will be using the car to demonstrate how companies can use advanced additive manufacturing techniques to produce sustainable green technology at a lower production cost.

The company’s first customer for the new 3D printed electric vehicle will be the Association for Manufacturing Technology.

The EV Market: Defined By Innovation

Local Motors’ 3D printed electric car is just one example of how cutting-edge technology is being applied to the EV market. However, the EV market is a sector that has been defined by technological innovation since its inception. This technological innovation has fueled increasing interest into creating a clean transportation future defined by digital networks, smart technology, and the user experience.

Forward thinking companies have been latching onto this innovation by investing in fleets of electric cars and EV charging stations. Investing in the EV economy can be a powerful way to solidify a company’s dedication to innovation and sustainability, which are two key components of the 21^st century business model.

 Joseph Tohill is a freelance writer and online communications specialist for organizations in the sustainability sector. He has a B.A. in Interdisciplinary Studies from the University of British Columbia and spent most of his academic career studying sustainable urban development; namely the interdisciplinary relationship between built form and natural environment.

New Cable Management System Makes the EV Charging Process Hassle-Free

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There are lots of things that are awesome about being an EV driver. You can silently scoot around in a sleekly designed vehicle that emits no pollution, park in charging-equipped stalls at the mall, and refuel your car for the same price as a grande vanilla latte from your favorite coffee chain. However, if there was one slight drawback with driving an EV, it might be having to fold up and return the cord to its docking station after charging your car.  

Now admittedly, this is just a minor annoyance.

Yes the cord can be heavy, awkward, and a bit of a chore to put back in place. However, it probably ranks fairly low on your list of tiny frustrations in life – one of those things you just accept about driving around in an EV.

However, here at SemaConnect we’re dedicated to making the EV driving experience as seamless and hassle-free as possible. As a result, we’ve been hard at work devising a new cable management system to make charging an EV less of a chore. Our new charging stations will allow drivers to extend the cord to exactly the right length to charge their car. When finished, the driver simply has to return the head to the station, and the cord will automatically retract and loop itself.

It’s easy, clean, and completely frustration free.

We’re excited about this new system because it will actually benefit a lot of different types of people.

First of all, it will benefit EV drivers. No longer will you have to think about how to properly roll up the cord to stow it away. You also won’t have to get your hands dirty by physically trying to loop the cord onto the charging station. Our cable management system will take care of all of this for you.

It also means that you won’t arrive at a charging station to a pile of tangled up charging cords. Granted most EV drivers are pretty good about putting the cord away. However, there is a small percentage of users that are in a hurry or absent-minded, and they simply don’t put the cord away properly.

Retailers or property managers will also be happy that the cords will look cleaner and more organized. Many charging stations are located in prime locations near entrances of stores, and ensuring the cords remain unobtrusive makes the whole property look more organized.

Finally, the new cable management system will benefit non-EV drivers who happen to be walking by a charging station. No one wants to step over a cord that is hanging over onto the sidewalk. Not only does it look disorganized, you might accidentally step on it!

Ultimately, having a cable management system for charging stations is the next step forward in EV convenience. EVs have been on the market for several years now and an increasing number of them are hitting the streets every day. While exciting innovations are being made on the technological side as we speak, it is also time to look at how to make the charging experience as convenient and easy as possible. 

 Joseph Tohill is a freelance writer and online communications specialist for organizations in the sustainability sector. He has a B.A. in Interdisciplinary Studies from the University of British Columbia and spent most of his academic career studying sustainable urban development; namely the interdisciplinary relationship between built form and natural environment.

BMW i3 Review: A Step in EV Innovation

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The race is now on to see which automobile maker will produce the best luxury EV in 2014. So far we’ve looked at the Cadillac ELR, which shows some promise in the North American Market despite a few nagging drawbacks. But now it’s time to go across the ocean and check the latest EV offering from one of the world’s most esteemed automobile innovators: BMW.

The BMW i3 is one of the latest luxury EVs to head into production, and so far this vehicle has set the bar pretty high when it comes to achieving an innovative, beautiful, and functional EV.

Rather than try to adapt a previous design for use with an EV motor, BMW has decided to construct its new EV from the ground up. The company analyzed every facet of the new i3 design, paying particular attention to weight, aerodynamics, aesthetics, and functionality. In this BMW i3 review, I’ll take a look at exactly why this car is so innovative and what it means for the EV market going forward.

It’s All About Design

The BMW i3 is designed to maximize the output and efficiency of its electric motor. Achieving top points in this regard means developing a car that is light and ultra-aerodynamic. And reviewing the design specs of the BMW i3 suggests that the German automaker did just that.

To keep the weight down, BMW made use of a “skateboard platform” design. This resulted in a car that was divided into carbon-fibre “life module” deployed onto an aluminium “drive module”. The carbon-fibre BMW used was relatively cheap and light-weight, thus ensuring the total weight of the car came in at 2900 pounds, which is about 450 pounds lighter than the Nissan Leaf.

As a result of its aerodynamic, light-weight design, the BMW boasts a range of between 80-100 miles on its 22 kWh lithium-ion battery. And with its high-torque 170 bph motor and power flow which is uninterrupted by changing gears, you can go from 0-62 mph in 7.2 seconds.

If range anxiety is you’re concern, you can upgrade to an optional range-extending gas motor for an additional 300 miles of range.

Regenerative Breaking & Smart Technology on the BMW i3

The BMW i3 features regenerative breaking – a feature that is quickly becoming a staple on EVs. The system is initiated by releasing one’s foot off the accelerator which engages a special breaking system that both slows down the car and charges the battery. Some reviewers have noted that regenerative breaking on the BMW i3 is so effective that one can drive around the city without using the brake pedal at all.

In terms of electronics, the BMW i3 makes use of the standard iDrive computer system. Important information such as battery power and range are displayed prominently on the interface, as well as a number of other features such as Eco or Eco Pro driving modes. One reviewer even noted how the BMW i3 is able to point you towards the nearest free charging station when your car starts to run out of juice.

When it comes to technology, the BMW i3 is clearly leading the way among luxury EVs.

How does the BMW i3 compare to other luxury EVs?

By now BMW has to contend with the numerous luxury EVs on the market (or coming soon to the market). There’s the Tesla Model S, the Cadillac ELR, and the forthcoming Mercedez-Benz B-Class electric drive. With so many options to choose from, drivers of luxury EVs will be looking closely to the specs of each of the cars to see which one is best suited for their needs.

BMW has set the bar high early in the game, with the release of its new i3. Its innovative design, great range capabilities, and smart technology make it a logical choice for the typical urban commuter. But as technology improves and EVs get even better, we could be seeing some truly remarkable cars in the EV market in the years to come.



Joseph Tohill is a freelance writer and online communications specialist for organizations in the sustainability sector. He has a B.A. in Interdisciplinary Studies from the University of British Columbia and spent most of his academic career studying sustainable urban development; namely the interdisciplinary relationship between built form and natural environment.

SemaConnect Unveils New Cable Management System

ChargePro 620 electric vehicle charging stations make it easier for users by eliminating the need to stow charging cord after charging.

SemaConnect, Inc. announced that its ChargePro 620 electric vehicle charging stations are now available with cable management systems. The system makes it convenient and easy for station owners and electric vehicle drivers to charge their vehicles without having the added task of having to loop and stow the cord back. The system is available for both single and dual pedestal stations.

"One concern we have heard from electric vehicle owners is that they don’t like having to place the cord on the rack after charging," said Mark Pastrone, VP of Business Development at SemaConnect. "We’ve listened to EV users and have designed the cable management-system to make their electric vehicle charging experience simple and fast. This solution is positive for both property managers and EV drivers because not only does it make the process easier, but it also is designed to keep charging station cables clean and organized for Class A properties."

The system allows drivers to easily extend the cable to the length required for their vehicle’s charge port. The lanyard supports the charge cable to keep it above the parking lot surface at all times. When the charging session is complete the driver simply returns the plug to the head unit housing and the cable automatically retracts to a clean organized loop.

SemaConnect’s networked electric vehicle charging stations and web-based management software makes it easy for station owners to deploy at their properties. The stations are sophisticated networked Level II (240Volts, 30Amps) commercial grade and comes bundled with SemaCharge, a web-based management software that station owners can:

● Manage time-of-use pricing with built-in payment gateway
● Run sustainability reports on fossil fuel and CO2 emissions
● See real-time electricity metering
● Manage electric vehicle driver usage
● More (Click here)

For EV drivers, SemaConnect has an iPhone and Android smart phone app that allows them to manage their charging sessions, search for more stations, and to manage their account. SemaConnect has also partnered with Recargo on their PlugShare app, the most widely used application for electric vehicle drivers, which allows them to start a charging session right from the PlugShare app for more convenience.

To learn more about SemaConnect, or to purchase a charging station at your location, visithttp://www.semaconnect.com or call 1-800-663-5633.

To download the iPhone app: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/semaconnect/id471861561?mt=8.

To download the Android app: http://android.downloadatoz.com/apps/com.semaconnect,445945.html.

About SemaConnect

SemaConnect is the leading provider of electric vehicle charging solutions and sophisticated software for station owners and electric vehicle drivers. SemaConnect’s ChargePro charging stations are wirelessly networked on their SemaCharge Network and offer advanced features such as smart-grid integration, RFID card authentication, sustainability reporting and more. ChargePro stations can be found at municipal, parking multifamily, office, hotel and retail locations nationwide. Visit http://www.semaconnect.com to learn more about owning, managing or using a ChargePro.

SemaConnect Contact:
Amber Perry - Marketing Specialist
amber.perry(at)semaconnect(dot)com
301-352-3730, ext. 224

The New Cadillac ELR: Cadillac’s Answer to the Emerging EV Market

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Cadillac’s entry into the EV market is already popping up in dealerships all over the country and its sophisticated design and unique features are sure to turn some heads. The Cadillac ELR is a plug-in hybrid that offers 250 horsepower, Extended Range Electric Vehicle (EREV) technology, regenerative breaking, and a stitched leather and carbon fibre interior. Much like the Chevy Volt, the Cadillac ELR uses electricity virtually all the time, but with an internal combustion engine to keep the lithium-ion battery charged up.

Some would say that the Cadillac ELR epitomizes the company’s design philosophy of “Art and Science”. In this Cadillac ELR review, I’ll take a closer look at Cadillac’s new plug-in hybrid and how it manages to bridge the Art and Science divide with both sophistication and ease.

First Impressions

Cadillac's are easy to identify from afar. Their distinctive design typically features bold angles, an imposing front grill, and a certain audacious yet refined character. And true to form, the new Cadillac ELR boasts an appearance that is distinctly “Cadillac”, though with a slightly futuristic twist.

The hood slopes down dramatically from the windshield to give the low-sitting car a provocative and chiseled look. As is typical of a present-day Cadillac, the front includes a large grill and the back features hockey-stick shaped taillights to reaffirm the “take no guff” attitude the vehicle often projects.

But while older iterations of the Cadillac would often demand authority seemingly through sheer force of will, the new ELR instead attempts to seduce users with its smart technology, vibrant TFT display, a luxurious interior, and of course, its 16.5 kWh lithium-ion battery. It is truly a car made for the 21^st century.

A Look Under the Hood: Cadillac ELR Specs

When it comes to powering the car, the Cadillac ELR takes much inspiration from the Chevy Volt. Like the Volt, the Cadillac features an ELR powertrain that combines both EV and internal-combustion technology. Relying solely on electricity, the user can go 35 miles. Past that and the gas generator kicks to help power the battery, thus giving the car an additional 300 miles of range.

The combined fuel economy of the car’s gas-electric drivetrain offers 33 miles per gallon. When operating it on electric power alone, it boasts an 82 MPG fuel-efficiency rating.

Charging times are similar to that of the Chevy Volt: 4.5 hours on a 240-volt outlet and 7+ hours on a 120 volt home connection. But while some electric cars feature very real range anxiety, the Cadillac ELR’s 345 miles range has the average American covered for most automobile trips.

Smart Technology and the User Experience

Like many EVs, the Cadillac ELR features regenerative breaking capabilities. This basically diverts additional power to the battery when slowing the car down, thus increasing the vehicle total range by a small amount.

In the ELR, the regenerative breaking features are presented in two paddles on either side of the steering wheel. Individuals that are used to shifting paddles in this same location may have to get used to their new function. But all one has to do to engage regenerative breaking is to depress one of the paddles and the car will both slow down and charge the battery at the same time.

Cadillac’s CUE infotainment system features prominently in the ELR, and features new information on charging status and fuel efficiency. The display is both vibrant and easy to use. Plus in order to quell fears over information overload (as is so typical in the digital age) the user has the option to minimize information presented on the display to streamline the user experience.

As is becoming increasingly common, the user can also access the CUE system through a smartphone app, thus giving one access to charging time settings and battery alerts.

Conclusion: Will the Cadillac ELR Compete on the Luxury EV Stage?

While the Cadillac ELR looks stunning and boasts some remarkable specs, the question remains whether or not it will be an effective Luxury EV. With a price tag of $75,000, this car is out of the price range for many Americans. But green minded consumers of luxury vehicles may be inclined to shift easily into Cadillac’s new plug-in hybrid.

Some initial reviews have highlighted the cramped backseats and lacklustre performance of the built-in sound-cancelling technology when the gas engine kicks in. Others suggest these are minor details that won’t sway consumers too much when deciding on the right luxury EV.

What are your thoughts? Would you consider the Cadillac ELR a worthy contender amongst other luxury EVs?

Joseph Tohill is a freelance writer and online communications specialist for organizations in the sustainability sector. He has a B.A. in Interdisciplinary Studies from the University of British Columbia and spent most of his academic career studying sustainable urban development; namely the interdisciplinary relationship between built form and natural environment.