Electric vehicle extended range hybrid battery pack system

摘要

A power source comprised of a first battery pack (e.g., a non-metal-air battery pack) and a second battery pack (e.g., a metal-air battery pack) is provided, wherein the second battery pack is used when the user selects an extended range mode of operation. Minimizing use of the second battery pack prevents it from undergoing unnecessary, and potentially lifetime limiting, charge cycles.

主权项

1. A method of extending driving range of an electric vehicle, the electric vehicle including at least a first battery pack and a second battery pack, wherein the first and second battery packs are comprised of different battery types, the method comprising the steps of:
providing means for selecting between a normal mode of operation and an extended range mode of operation; wherein when said extended range mode of operation is selected, the method further comprises the steps of supplying vehicle operational power to the electric vehicle from the first battery pack and from the second battery pack; and wherein when said normal mode of operation is selected, the method further comprises the steps of supplying vehicle operational power to the electric vehicle from the first battery pack and not from the second battery pack.