CSIRO - SP AusNet PHEV. Click to enlarge.

CSIRO engineers modified Toyota Prius hybrids by removing the OEM battery pack and installing a larger 6 kWh, 30 Ah NiMH battery pack (five times the capacity of the original 1.2 kWh, 6.5 Ah pack) and a battery charger to allow the cars to plug into and charge with electricity from the grid or from on-site renewable energy sources.

CSIRO Energy Transformed Flagship scientist Dr Phillip Paevere said the road trial is collecting extensive information on how the existing PHEV technology could be used for a new application: using the car as a large mobile battery which can be integrated and used in the home.

The PHEVs have been fitted with instruments which will monitor the travel patterns of different users, and the residual battery power left in the car at the end of the day, which could be available for other uses. When not needed, the parked car in the driveway could potentially become a large battery store and energy source for the house, running appliances or storing off-peak or surplus electricity generated from on-site renewable generators, such as solar panels.

—Dr Paevere

SP AusNet spokesperson, Sean Sampson, said the trial will also allow thorough analysis of what the electricity demands are likely to be when PHEVs are connected to the network for charging.

The introduction of electric vehicles into the mainstream market could have a significant impact on the electricity network. They may also dramatically affect the output at residential and retail outlets and the forecasted growth of peak and base demands.

—Sean Sampson

The transport sector accounts for 14% of Australia’s total greenhouse gas emissions.

The road trial is the first phase in understanding the potential for using PHEVs in Australian homes. The PHEV technology will also be used in the home energy system of CSIRO’s Zero Emission House (AusZEH) project.