Long before electric vehicles (EVs) became a common sight on Canadian roads, Daniel Novy—whose last name aptly translates to “new”—was already an enthusiast. A machinist and amateur auto mechanic originally from Slovakia, Novy delved into EV technology literature and utilized his extensive knowledge to create his own electric car.
Novy’s undertaking, which he completed in his garage over several months, revolved around replacing the internal combustion engine of a 1990 Honda CRX with a lithium-ion battery. He retained the original transmission, setting his modified car apart from most EVs, which typically feature a single gear. (The intricacies of EV gearing and their impressive acceleration are complex topics that can intrigue those with mechanical inclinations.)
All charged up with places to go
After using his homemade EV for a couple of years and also converting a second gasoline vehicle, Novy decided to buy a Chevy Spark. The Spark EV is a compact “city car” with a limited range of approximately 125 km. Novy employs it for his daily 30 km commute and even for longer journeys.
With a level-2 charging setup at home and an expanding network of public charging stations at his disposal, he feels completely at ease traveling from one point to another powered by electricity instead of gasoline.
His excitement for EV technology remains vibrant.
“The internal combustion engine seems outdated,” Novy remarks. He perceives the engineering of EVs as straightforward and elegant, standing in stark contrast to the complex, friction-prone components of traditional engines. “When you drive the car, it feels like this is how it should be,” he further adds.
Goodbye, Mr. Lube
The straightforward nature of electric vehicles also translates into minimal maintenance needs and costs. Under typical conditions, maintaining an EV involves little more than refilling windshield washer fluid, monitoring tire pressure, and swapping out wiper blades and tires when they wear down.
Since most of the slowing down is handled by the electric traction motor—reclaiming energy back to the battery—brake service intervals for EVs are notably extended. Plus, EV drivers can skip the routine oil change appointments.
On the horizon …
Given Daniel Novy’s zeal for innovation, it’s no wonder that he keeps an eye on the latest advancements in EV technology. He has a particular interest in ultracapacitors as potential power sources (think more along the lines of static electricity, as opposed to the chemical energies found in batteries).
Ultracapacitors offer increased efficiency and durability while being less harmful to the environment than batteries. Although current versions have limitations regarding energy storage, Novy predicts that upcoming models will lead to EVs that are more eco-friendly and easier to recharge.
When discussing the shift to electric cars in society, Novy mentions that some car enthusiasts might be reluctant to part with the grease and grit of traditional mechanics. However, he is optimistic that most drivers who have the chance to experience an EV will find it to be a positive change.
A factor, not a solution
It’s essential to recognize that while EVs provide environmental benefits, they also carry environmental implications related to their production, operation, and disposal. Therefore, it remains important to choose walking, cycling, or public transport whenever it is feasible.
So how far can I go?
The battery range of EVs can differ based on the car model and driving conditions. Models currently available in Canada can achieve impressive distances ranging from 200 to over 400 km on a single charge. Colder weather can affect battery performance (unfortunately for those in Winnipeg), but coasting, braking, and parking in sunlight can help extend range.
Roadside assistance
For more information about electric vehicles, including purchasing, driving, and charging details, visit the following websites:
Canadian Automobile Association (caa.ca/electric-vehicles)
Charge Hub (chargehub.com)
Plug ’N Drive (plugndrive.ca)
Charging 101
Among the four varieties of electric vehicles on the road today, battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) require charging.
Though EVs can be charged using a standard household outlet, this method is slow (taking anywhere from eight to twenty hours). Installing a level-2 charger at home or utilizing a public charging station can reduce charging time to three to eight hours. High-voltage “fast chargers” can complete the process in under an hour.
Public charging fast facts
Several networks, including Flo, ChargePoint, and Greenlots, are active across North America.
Charging stations are generally found near businesses and public facilities (like community centers and parks) or along major thoroughfares.
Chargers can be activated via an app or a scan card.
Charging is largely free or low-cost ($1 to $2 per hour), although some stations might be situated in pay parking lots.
At busier charging locations, time limits may apply.
Here’s an example:
A sustainable perspective on expenses
Although new electric vehicles come with a higher upfront cost compared to traditional gas-powered cars, government-sponsored purchase incentives—for both the vehicles and, in some provinces, for home charging equipment—help mitigate the initial expenses. Additionally, significant long-term savings shouldn’t be overlooked.
Annual averages
2019 Chevy Bolt EV
2019
Fuel
$450 (electricity)
$1,800 (gasoline)
Maintenance
$700
$900
Greenhouse gas emissions
1,500 kg
16,000 kg
