The fear of being stranded by a depleted electric vehicle (EV) battery is commonly referred to as 'range anxiety'. This study explores a future vision for a comprehensive driver alerting algorithm to reduce the range anxiety by increasing the accuracy of the EV range estimation method. The key piece of information required to achieve this is an accurate battery state of charge (SoC) estimation. This study proposes an improved SoC estimation algorithm for implementation using low-cost microcontrollers. A method by which this improved algorithm can be implemented in a distributed battery management system is presented. The improved SoC estimation can be used to provide an enhanced range estimation method that can take into consideration a variety of environmental and behavioural factors. The proposed range estimate is more accurate than when only SoC is considered and can be implemented as part of a comprehensive driver alerting system to alert the EV driver of the expected energy required to reach the destination, the expected range with current SoC, an advisory if charging will be required prior to reaching the destination and the suggested duration of the charging required. By reducing the uncertainty surrounding EV range, it is hoped that the uptake of EVs can be improved.

, "Driver alerting system using range estimation of electric vehicles in real time under dynamically varying environmental conditions," IET Electrical Systems in Transportation, vol. 6, (2) pp. 107-116, 2016. Driver alerting system using range estimation of electric vehicles in real time under dynamically varying environmental conditions AbstractAs the technology supporting electric vehicles (EVs) is rapidly progressing and the cost of EV components is reducing, EVs are becoming more feasible for use in Australia and in many countries around the world. However, the public perception of EVs and their perceived limitations result in a slow uptake of the technology, partially because of the uncertainty regarding the ability of an EV to meet the driving needs of the general population. Range anxiety is a particular concern with drivers having fear of being stranded by a depleted EV battery. This study explores means of reducing range anxiety by taking into account a variety of environmental and behavioural factors. By considering such factors and implementing it in conjunction with a recently proposed improved state of charge (SoC) estimation method by the authors, a range estimate can be produced that is much more accurate than the conventional methods which consider the SoC and vehicle efficiency alone. This range estimate can be used to inform the driver of the capabilities of the EV and advise if a recharge is required to reach the intended destination. authors, a range estimate can be produced that is much more accurate than the conventional methods which consider the SoC and vehicle efficiency alone. This range estimate can be used to inform the driver of the capabilities of the EV and advise if a recharge is required to reach the intended destination.