Abstract: A method for assisting the driver of a vehicle in the optimum use of the on-board energy supply, by consumption-oriented driving-power limitation, especially for electric vehicles. A permissible consumption rate related to the remaining distance is determined continuously starting from the available energy supply and this section consumption is used, taking into account the driving resistances, to determine a set point value which controls a device for driving-power limitation. In a preferred embodiment, an electronic accelerator pedal is provided, with a pedal travel divided into two angular ranges, the second angular range requiring an increased actuating force and being allocated to a power range inhibited in accordance with the set point value. The division into the two angular ranges is adjustable by means of a positioning motor as a function of the permissible section consumption.

Abstract: The invention relates to a charge information system to support the operator of an electric vehicle or hybrid vehicle, including the input of desired parameters for charging and operating the vehicle. The charge information system according to the invention comprises an input unit for putting the desired parameters into a computing unit which determines the required remaining charging time and displays it. Defining quantities are, among others, the charging efficiency or the desired range.

Abstract: The invention relates to a battery current monitoring system for traction batteries in electric vehicles and hybrid vehicles, in which battery current monitoring system the maximum battery current is monitored in order to avoid damage to the battery as a result of overheating due to excessively high battery currents and, if appropriate, the said maximum battery current is reduced to a normal value which is permitted for continuous operation. Monitoring is activated if the battery current exceeds a prescribed limit value. The battery current is however not reduced until the battery temperature exceeds a prescribed limit value. It is also proposed not to use the measured average battery temperature as the control variable, but rather to use a reference temperature calculated on the basis of heat balances for individual reaction zones of the battery. The monitoring is terminated as soon as both the average and the calculated battery temperatures drop below a prescribed uncritical value.