AN ULTRACAPACITOR POWERED DRIVE SYSTEM FOR ELECTRIC BICYCLE

The demand for alternative energy strategies is growing due to increasing fuel consumption and traffic congestion caused by the rise in vehicles. Electric vehicles (EVs), including buses, cars, and bikes, offer eco-friendly and efficient solutions to mitigate pollution from fossil fuel usage. In densely populated regions like Kerala, where uneven terrains discourage traditional cycling, electric bicycles powered by advanced storage systems provide a viable green transportation option. Traditional batteries in EVs face limitations such as low power density, slow charging, and short lifespans. Supercapacitors emerge as an ideal alternative with rapid charging, long lifecycle, high power density, and deep discharge capabilities. However, their low energy density requires innovative solutions like asymmetrical supercapacitors, which combine carbon and nickel to enhance energy density while maintaining the advantages of traditional supercapacitors. A novel drive system incorporating ultra-capacitors, BLDC motors, and DC-DC converters is proposed for electric bicycles. This system optimizes power management between supercapacitors and batteries to improve performance, extend component lifespan, and ensure efficient energy utilization during high- demand scenarios like climbing and engine startup. These advancements make electric bicycles an attractive option for sustainable and eco-friendly transportation in urban and rural areas alike. Key words: Electric vehicles, supercapacitors, ultra-capacitors, electric bicycles, renewable energy, BLDC motor, power management, asymmetrical supercapacitors, green transportation, energy storage systems