Alternative Methods for Charging Batteries

What sets apart a good battery charger from a top-notch one? The former is always within reach, takes up minimal space, and is versatile enough to charge multiple electronic devices. The latter, in addition to these functions, allows for a quick "revival" of your gadget. Thirty minutes, and you're all set for new adventures. According to renowned engineers, there are even more innovations on the horizon. What can we expect in the future?

NissanLeaf Electric Car: Maximum Relaxation in Thirty Minutes

Humanity would have switched to electric cars long ago if not for the lengthy charging times. Who would enjoy speeding a dozen or so kilometers only to wait half a day for the expensive – in every sense of the word – vehicle to recharge before hitting the road again?

Thankfully, such "lethargy" was characteristic mostly of the early electric cars, needing a charge every forty kilometers. Today, the situation is significantly improved.

Especially with the NissanLeaf, the electric car of the third millennium. Currently, it can be considered the fastest personal electric transport. Much of this is attributed to its quick battery charging capability.

Manufacturers have achieved the near impossible: just thirty minutes – and the NissanLeaf is ready to conquer new distances. Very convenient: while you have your lunch, your electronic companion is also recharging. And so what if the battery only reaches 75-80% charge in that time? It's sufficient for at least another half a day of exploration.

In the near future, manufacturers plan to redesign the battery, eliminating the need for wires. According to them, this will cut the charging time by at least half.

TeslaMotors: Swap, Don't Charge!

Who said you have to keep charging your electronic battery all the time? What if you could simply...replace it! A couple of spare batteries – and off you go. It's almost like carrying several gas or diesel canisters with you.

To avoid the hassle of changing the battery yourself, you can rely on a specialist. In the US, several dozen refueling stations are soon to be built where, in addition to gasoline and diesel fuel, electric batteries will be sold. A few minutes and you're back on the road. Today, professionals can replace such a battery within 90-120 seconds. Prompt, isn't it?

Seawater Instead of Electricity

This is not a fantasy from the realm of "Most Unusual Energy Sources." This is a development from the Geneva Motor Show called Quant e-Sportlimousine. Despite having to use a special electrolyte instead of regular seawater, the car exceeds all expectations. Admittedly, regular batteries are far more efficient, but an electric car would require hundreds of them whereas only one electrolyte is needed.

Replacing the electrolyte takes a maximum of five minutes: just drain the old liquid and refill with the new one. Manufacturers promise that within a few years half of European cars will be switched to electrolytic power mode. Only time will tell.