SME helps electric cars go the distance
![](https://ec.europa.eu/newsroom/repository/picture/2016-16/eptender_12938.jpg)
date: 13/04/2016
Project: An innovative range extending service fo...
acronym: EP TENDER
See also: CORDIS
Electric vehicles can be a great choice for the environment and our energy security. A snap-on range-extender from the EP Tender project could encourage more car buyers to make that choice.
Most affordable low- to mid-range electric cars can do a day’s driving – about 100 km – before their battery runs out. But for longer journeys, regular recharging can add hours to travel time. The EU-funded project’s trailer-based generator system – the tender – can add another 400km before drivers need to refuel, making electric cars a more versatile, more attractive purchase.
With the tender, drivers can also take their cars to areas where recharging facilities are still developing, further supporting electric vehicle uptake. To minimise their use cost and environmental impact – and maximise their convenience for users – the tenders will be distributed through a rental network when they are ready for launch.