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I think once we get hot-swappable batteries then it'll really kick start the industry. The only problem is Li-Ion isn't recyclable or easily disposable.

• whatever1 8y ago
  Yes I really wonder why Tesla did not pitch this, specially for their truck offering. I think it would be technically feasible to replace the battery within 5’ if the drivetrain was designed from the ground up having this in mind. The “charging” facilities would be more expensive than the superchargers, but still...
  • FullyFunctional 8y ago
    Because they actually tried it and the demand was not there. They had a battery swap station in LA. I posit that the people enthusiastic about battery swaps aren't EV owners [yet]. There are too many practical issues with battery swaps, and larger batteries and superchargers are simply better answers. Battery swaps will never be a thing. EDIT: Better Place(TM) were pushing this very concept and had a LARGE presence in pilot countries, including Denmark. They flopped.
    • whatever1 8y ago
      Most importantly it transfers the liability for the battery health from the user to the manufacturer which would be a huge pro-ev argument for commercial purpose vehicles.
      • _ph_ 8y ago
        Renault and Nissan offer to rent the batteries while buying the car at a reduced price. The rental batteries will get changed at the cost for the manufacturer, if they are out of spec.