Genius Chevrolet Bolt driver attaches belt to rear wheel and generator to charge its battery while driving

A viral trend shows a Chevrolet Bolt owner attaching a belt-driven generator to a rear wheel, attempting to generate power while driving to extend range. However, experts and commenters widely point out this concept violates the law of conservation of energy, as the drag from the generator requires more energy from the battery than it produces, ultimately decreasing efficiency. 

This DIY solution has sparked debate about energy generation and highlights the inventive spirit surrounding electric vehicles, even if the method is fundamentally flawed.

How the Setup Works (and Doesn't Work)

The Idea:  The driver's setup connects a generator to the spinning rear wheel via a belt. The intention is for the wheel's rotation to spin the generator, creating electricity to send back into the car's battery. 

The Flaw:  The fundamental problem is energy loss due to drag. The generator creates a mechanical load on the wheel, forcing the car's main electric motor to work harder to overcome this drag. 
The Result: 

The energy used to combat the added drag is greater than the energy produced by the generator, leading to a net energy loss. It is often compared to trying to fill a pond by pumping water from itself, or lifting oneself by pulling on their shoelaces. 
Online Reaction

Debate and Humor: 

The viral trend has generated a significant online discussion, with some calling the driver "genius" for the innovative idea and others pointing to the basic physics that make it ineffective, according to Facebook posts. 

Perpetual Motion: 

The setup has been humorously labeled a "perpetual motion machine" attempt, a concept that violates the laws of physics. 

Regenerative Braking vs. DIY:

Many commenters note that EVs already have a highly efficient system for recapturing energy through regenerative braking, where the electric motor functions as a generator to slow the car down and put energy back into the battery without the added drag of a separate generator. 

Ref: Genius Chevrolet Bolt driver attaches belt to rear wheel and generator to charge its battery while driving (supercarblondie)