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Tesla Patents for dual-battery and extended range EVs

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I've reported on a few of these patents before, but another one was issued today too. So far scanning the last year or so I see several patents (including the one issued today) for dual-battery and extended range/hybrid battery EVs. So expect some very cool things from Tesla in the near future!

Title: Efficient dual source battery pack system for an electric vehicle
Issued: September 24, 2013
Link: http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-...1=AND&d=PTXT&s1=8543270&OS=8543270&RS=8543270

A method of optimizing the operation of the power source of an electric vehicle is provided, where the power source is comprised of a first battery pack (e.g., a non-metal-air battery pack) and a second battery pack (e.g., a metal-air battery pack). The power source is optimized to minimize use of the least efficient battery pack (e.g., the second battery pack) while ensuring that the electric vehicle has sufficient power to traverse the expected travel distance before the next battery charging cycle.

Title: Electric vehicle extended range hybrid battery pack system
Issued: June 25, 2013
Link: http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-...1=AND&d=PTXT&s1=8471521&OS=8471521&RS=8471521
A power source comprised of a first battery pack (e.g., a non-metal-air battery pack) and a second battery pack (e.g., a metal-air battery pack) is provided, wherein the second battery pack is only used as required by the state-of-charge (SOC) of the first battery pack or as a result of the user selecting an extended range mode of operation. Minimizing use of the second battery pack prevents it from undergoing unnecessary, and potentially lifetime limiting, charge cycles. The second battery pack may be used to charge the first battery pack or used in combination with the first battery pack to supply operational power to the electric vehicle.