You made it to the last page. Nice driving! If you're still curious, here's what to try, talk about and explore next.
Try it at home
Four mini experiments
Each one goes with a spread in the book. Do them with a grown-up.
1
Feel the push and pull.
Take two magnets and turn one around until they push apart. That push and pull is what spins an electric motor. Pages 8–9
2
Find the center of mass.
Balance a ruler on one finger. Tape two coins to one end and find the new balance point. Heavy batteries sit low and in the middle of an EV for the same reason. Pages 28–29
3
Spot regenerative braking.
On your next ride in an electric car, watch the energy display when the driver lifts off the pedal. The car is turning motion back into electricity. Pages 18–21
4
Count the batteries.
Walk around your home and list everything that runs on a rechargeable battery. Most of them use the same lithium-ion chemistry as an electric car. Pages 12–13
Grown-ups: keep small, strong magnets away from young children. They are dangerous if swallowed.
Car-ride questions
Talk about it
What else in our house has an electric motor inside it?
Why do you think an electric car's battery sits in the floor instead of the front?
Where does the electricity in our outlets come from?
Word bank
Words to remember
Electromagnet
A magnet made by running electricity through coiled wire. It can be switched on and off.
Anode & cathode
The two sides of a battery. Lithium ions travel between them.
Regenerative braking
Slowing down by using the motor in reverse to make electricity.
Crumple zone
The part of a car built to squash and soak up the force of a crash.
Keep exploring
Learn more online
Plug In America A nonprofit that helps people learn about driving electric. You met them on page 40.
Veloz Fun tools and events about the benefits of electric cars.
FuelEconomy.gov The U.S. government's site for comparing cars side by side, including range and cost to drive.
