Rolls-Royce Motor Cars recently took its Phantom Experimental Electric prototype to the MIRA research facility in Warwickshire for a series of laboratory-controlled temperature tests. Engineers want to learn how extreme conditions such as high temperatures and humidity levels affect battery performance while in use. This information is critical as 102EX will shortly embark on a global tour that will take in markets such as the Middle East, Asia-Pacific and North America. “The tests have furnished us with important data about the effects of heat and humidity on 102EX’s battery and management systems,” commented Andrew Martin, 102EX chief engineer. “For example we are clear that the battery management system, which maintains safety and optimal operation of individual cells, will inhibit charging at extreme temperatures. Practically speaking, this may mean finding locations in which the car’s cells can cool after test drives before a re-charge can begin.”
The tests have also reinforced expectations of the temperature range in which the car can be driven. In general, the car’s 96 cells will continue to operate at temperatures as high as 50 degrees Celsius and in relative humidity as low as 30%. This is well within temperature ranges expected while on tour, however battery performance will continue to be monitored by engineers as the car is taken to typically hot locations such as Dubai. 102EX began its tour in May with events at the home of Rolls-Royce in Goodwood. This was followed by drives in London and the South East of England, then Manchester and Edinburgh. The car departs for international events in the following locations: Asia-Pacific Region: Singapore and Beijing (Early August 2011) North America: Pebble Beach, LA (Tuesday 16 to Sunday 21 August 2011) Europe: Regional tour (September 2011) Asia-Pacific Region: Japan (final week of September 2011) Middle East: Dubai (October 2011) North America: New York, Los Angeles Motor Show, Las Vegas, Florida and Art Basel, Miami (November and early December 2011).
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