[j-c-c]

I posted this "futuristic" topic on another forum, but it got little traction, pun intended:

So not exactly in the vein of structural battery utilization, maybe heading the alternative direction?

My thinking, here out loud, batteries are a large part of vehicle mass with electrics, beyond the motor itself. It seems it needs to be always considered the battery has a useful limited lifespan, and replacement at least once will be required. Because of its mass and density, its placement on the vehicle is always a consideration, lower, and more centered being normal goals. It also is likely somewhat conformable in final shape, ie, doesn't need to need to be a single unit/mass.

So with new electric PU's on the horizon, which will need greater battery capacity (meaning size/weight) than many current typical auto offerings, and the fact most PU's have higher ground clearance, and my observations most PU operate at effectively zero load carry at 50% of the time ( this number is just my guess), leads me to the following questions/idea;

Would an underslung, relatively flat, single unit battery pack, be a significant advantage in ride, handling, aero, replacement, safety, etc, if it was was dynamically moveable to optimise the COG for varying load and/or driving conditions? My thinking in beginning development, the battery movement would be very slow, but if found later to be real world effective, speed of movement of the battery could be increased, almost like a side rider on motorcycle racing sidecar. As electrical technology is improved in capacity/density, using another electrical motor for main battery movement would be an easy adaption. It seems active suspension could address many of the above concerns, with greater complexity, but not as well in the end, as an optimized COG is hard to mimic?"

Another commented COG could also be altered by moving axles locations, and manufacturers don't consider it worthwhile, my reply:

"Yes it would have an effect, but my thinking much less effect, be much more complicated, and would directly effect the drivers perception of turning, overhang clearances, aero balance etc, and I suspect for the average driver, be a potential driving hazard. Regarding no manufacturers not feeling its a worthwhile goal currently, at one time, nobody felt streamlining an outside mirror was worthwhile.