So says Frost & Sullivan in its Strategic Analysis of Global Market for Range Extenders, which estimates the total market for range extenders, such as the current Vauxhall/Opel Ampera and Chevrolet Volt, will be over 329,000 units by 2018.

A number of factors will help drive the market for range extenders, including a rapid expansion of models available, with a number of major OEMs having models lined up to be launched within the next three years. Moreover, fuel cell vehicles are expected to be commercialised by 2015, which will have a positive “ripple” effect on the uptake of extender range technologies, according to Frost & Sullivan.

E-REVs will be equipped with different applications such as internal combustion engine range extenders, fuel cell range extenders and micro-gas turbine range extenders, with the former expected to be the most widely used technology with an estimated market share of 77% globally by 2018.

An E-REV consumes very little fuel, as the primary function of the additional power source is to charge the battery, rather than power the wheels. Therefore, the extra miles are added at minimal cost.

‘The integration of range extenders in EVs will result in more than 50% reduction in emissions and significant fuel savings,’ said Frost & Sullivan automotive & transportation research associate Prajyot Sathe. ‘There is a major focus on engine downsizing, which will help lower costs and lead to exponential calibration and optimisation complexity, as the same level of detail and features can be retained even though the vehicle is downsized.’