Promising New Tech Uses Bumps and Potholes to Increase EV Range

There are many ways to maximize range when driving an electric vehicle, like avoiding sharp acceleration, making the most of the regenerative braking system or lowering the cabin temperature in winter. A British study commissioned by Kia has even shown that listening to classical songs can be up to four times more efficient than other types of music.

Here’s another solution you’ve probably never imagined: using bumps, potholes and other road imperfections to charge the battery.  

• Also: Most Drivers Use the Wrong Techniques with Potholes
• Also: Used Electric Cars: Which Ones Have the Best Range?

Wait, what? This is serious. A company called Gig Performance has developed a suspension accessory—the Roadkil 5000—that converts kinetic energy from a wheel’s up-and-down movements into electricity.

This next video provides a closer look at how the system works:

"Gig Performance is going to revolutionize how we capture lost energy in vehicles across America," said CEO Brandon Barkdull. "Our product is helping EVs charge on the go so you can stay on the road longer."

The company will try to spread the message this week at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas, but since the technology is still patent-pending, the exact specs and components remain a secret.

While Gig Performance is mainly targeting businesses and fleet managers because the benefits are greater with heavier vehicles like semis and delivery vans, there’s no reason to think something such as the Roadkil 5000 couldn’t be applied to other electric vehicles in the future.

Of course, perfectly paved and maintained roads can also help preserve a battery’s charge, but that’s a topic for another day.