Heat tests prepare Rolls-Royce 102EX for world tour

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars took its Phantom Experimental Electric prototype to the MIRA1 research facility in Warwickshire this week for a series of laboratory-controlled temperature tests.  Engineers were keen 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 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.
 
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).
 
102EX will also be presented at the Festival of Speed this weekend, starting with exclusive hill climbs on Thursday 30 June 2011 as part of the Moving Motor Show. The car will then move to the FoS Tech exhibition area from Friday 1 to Sunday 3 July 2011.