What is open source hardware?

Open source hardware is hardware whose design is made publicly available so that anyone can study, modify, distribute, make, and sell the design or hardware based on that design. The hardware's source, the design from which it is made, is available for anyone to study, modify, and distribute. These designs are usually released under an open-source hardware license, which protects the designer and provides users with the freedom to change and improve the design.

How does this apply to electric vehicles?

There are a few open source hardware platforms for building electric vehicles. One is the Open Vehicle Project, started by the nonprofit SecureWorld Foundation. The Open Vehicle Project's goal is to create an electric vehicle platform that anyone can use to build an EV.

The project is still in its early stages, but the team has already designed and built a prototype of the platform. The platform is based on the open source Kia Soul EV, and the team is currently working on adapting it to other vehicles.

What are the benefits of an open source EV platform?

There are several benefits to using an open source EV platform. One is that it makes it possible for anyone to build an EV, regardless of their experience or resources. This could make EVs more accessible and increase adoption.

Another benefit is that an open source platform makes it easier to improve and customize EVs. For example, the team behind the Open Vehicle Project is working on adding features like autonomous driving and extended range to their platform.

Finally, an open source platform could make it easier to standardize EVs. This would make it easier to manufacture parts and components for EVs, and ultimately make them cheaper to produce.

What are the challenges of an open source EV platform?

There are also some challenges associated with an open source EV platform. One is that it requires a community of developers to maintain and improve the platform. This can be difficult to organize and sustain.

Another challenge is that an open source platform may not be compatible with all existing EV infrastructure. For example, the Open Vehicle Project's platform is designed for the North American market, so it may not work with charging stations in other countries.

Conclusion

An open source EV platform has the potential to increase the accessibility and affordability of electric vehicles. However, the success of such a platform depends on the ability to build a community of developers and overcome challenges related to compatibility and infrastructure.