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15 OPERATING PRINCIPLE The propulsion system of the New 500 is completely powered by the energy contained in the high-voltage lithium- ion rechargeable battery of the car. Unlike conventional or hybrid cars, there is no internal combustion engine in this car. The New 500 uses the electrical energy stored in the high-voltage battery and not fuel. This battery provides the energy needed to start moving and therefore needs to be recharged before use. If the high-voltage battery is completely flat the car will not start. This car also has a 12V battery of the same type as those used by cars with internal combustion engines. If the 12V battery is completely flat the car will not start. The 12V battery supplies power to the conventional electrical system: lights, windscreen wipers, restraint systems (airbags and pretensioners), sound system, etc. The high-voltage battery supplies power to the electric motor and supplies the high-voltage auxiliary devices (heaters, electric climate compressor, etc.). The electronic converter that powers the 12V system for general car operation is also powered by the high-voltage battery and also recharges the 12V battery. The battery is charged by connecting the charging socket of the car to the mains power supply using the charging cable. The battery is charged by connecting the charging socket of the car to the mains power supply using the charging cable. The high-voltage battery is also partially recharged while driving during deceleration or braking. During this steps, the battery is recharged by regeneration via the electric motor. This is an efficient way of recharging as the kinetic energy of the car is used and converted into electric charging energy. Electric cars have specific characteristics of use, which is useful to know, in order to achieve optimal performance. This car respects the environment because it does not emit exhaust gases and therefore has zero CO2 emissions. |