Even though Rolls Royce officials themselves admitted an electric-powered Roller is irrelevant and nobody will buy it, they continue the Phantom 102EX test program as scheduled.
The latest tests conducted at MIRA center in Warwickshire is the heat test, in preparation for the car’s world tour. Since the 102EX is going to embark a world tour and visit places such as the Middle East where temperature and humidity is high, Engineers were keen to learn how such extreme conditions affect battery performance while in use.
So even if they didn’t make the car after all, they will have a great knowledge base about developing electric powertrains which can be used in other operations!
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 500C 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.
“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.”
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 final drive is scheduled for Birmingham on 5 July 2011, before the car departs for international events in the following locations:
Asia-Pacific Region: Singapore and Beijing (late July and 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).
