As part of a new capsule In studioour hosts Antoine Joubert and Mathieu Roy discuss a growing problem in the industry, namely the increasing weight of vehicles.
“This is an issue for the entire automotive industry. We don’t seem to care at all,” notes Antoine. He goes on to explain that the weight of cars contributes to the deterioration of road conditions.
“But that’s not the only problem. It’s also the fact that a heavier car consumes more energy, whether it’s an electric or gasoline-powered car.”
Less driving pleasure
Antoine notices that the pleasure of driving is tarnished by being overweight. He cites the example of the 100% electric sedan BMW i4 M50 and its gasoline equivalent, the 4 Series Gran Coupé. The first — although more powerful — is 450 kg heavier.
Photo: BMW AG
“The car is 50% less pleasant to drive than a 4 Series. You no longer have this feeling of lightness, maneuverability and precision in the steering,” laments Antoine.
In addition, the increasing weight also affects gasoline vehicles. Antoine cites the Honda Civic as an example. In 1984, the car showed a weight of 800 kg, while today it weighs 1,400 kg. Of course, the Civic — like all vehicles in the industry — is much more comfortable, technological and safer than its predecessor.
Photo: Antony Lajoie-Beaudoin
A lighter future?
“I’m a big believer in Lucid’s technology. [Le constructeur] succeeded in developing more compact and lightweight batteries to achieve greater autonomy,” says Antoine.
Photo: Antoine Joubert
Therefore, he and Mathieu believe that research and development will lead manufacturers to produce technologies – batteries and motors for example – that are lighter and more efficient.
Watch the video clip at the top of this article for all the details.