Lumissil Microsystems and BMW Group have demonstrated power line communication (PLC) across BMW’s Gen6 800-V battery system, using existing electrical connections to transmit data between the battery management system (BMS) controller and individual cell-monitoring circuits.
The approach eliminates the need for dedicated communication wiring within the battery pack. It could simplify electrical connections and reduce wiring weight in future electric vehicle (EV) battery designs.
The companies tested the technology on BMW’s Gen6 battery system, introduced in the BMW iX3 earlier this year. Testing demonstrated bidirectional, multi-node communication across the complete high-voltage battery.
The system transmitted cell measurement data and control commands under varying voltage and current conditions representative of automotive operation. Communication was evaluated at both the individual cell level and across the complete battery pack.
By using existing battery connections for data transmission, the PLC architecture could reduce the number of wires and connectors required for cell monitoring. Fewer dedicated communication connections may also simplify battery assembly and improve packaging flexibility.
The demonstration establishes the feasibility of using PLC for communication within an 800-V EV battery system. Lumissil and BMW will continue developing the technology for potential integration into future battery management architectures.
Filed Under: Batteries, Technology News