Get the basics on the SENT bus, which transmits sensor data to ECUs and other vehicle processors, one nibble at a time. How do you test the automotive SENT protocol? Test & Measurement Tips describes how to test the data bus. The Single Edge … [Read more...]
How do Level 3 and wireless charging standards help reduce EV range anxiety?
Level 3, DC fast charging, is expected to help reduce range anxiety by speeding the EV charging process. However, fast DC chargers are expensive and can be challenging to connect to the grid. That’s expected to slow their widespread use. On the other … [Read more...]
What does a digital twin mean for a BMS?
A digital twin (DT) generally refers to a digital representation of a physical object, system, or process. The idea of creating a DT is to replicate a real-time model of a physical entity. While trying to make a real-time model, the various aspects … [Read more...]
How do 12V and HV systems and grounding work in an EV?
The 12 V systems and high-voltage (HV) systems in an EV have different isolation and grounding requirements. They work together sometimes but must be galvanically isolated to ensure safe and reliable operation. In addition, the Federal Motor Vehicle … [Read more...]
What is the average expected lifespan of an EV battery?
Rechargeable lithium-ion batteries power most electric vehicles (EVs). Built to last or exceed an EV’s functional lifespan, these energy-dense batteries typically boast an impressive range of 100,000 to 150,000 miles. Although all EV batteries … [Read more...]
What are the choices for regenerative energy capture in EVs?
Regenerative energy capture, or regenerative braking, also called a kinetic energy recovery system (KERS), in an EV can be implemented in several ways. And it works differently on different classes of vehicles. This FAQ looks at some options for … [Read more...]
What are EV charging levels, types, and modes?
Levels, types, and modes categorize EV chargers. The level indicates the maximum power the charger can deliver; the type describes the vehicle interface plug, and the mode represents how the charger connects to the grid. This FAQ reviews the … [Read more...]
What role do advanced sensors play in EVs?
Sensors play a crucial role in electric vehicles (EVs), supporting battery and thermal management, advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), and personalized in-cabin experiences. This article reviews the advanced sensor technologies in EVs, … [Read more...]
What is North American Charging Station (NACS)?
The North American Charging Standard (NACS) is a charging standard for electric vehicles launched by Tesla Inc. in November 2022. The NACS was initially called the Tesla Charging Connector, a unique charging interface for Tesla vehicles. This new … [Read more...]
What plating options are available for high-power connectors?
Plating options are numerous and tend to fall into four categories: noble metals, passive metals, alloys, and dispersions. The first three categories are well established, while dispersions are just beginning to appear in response to the need for … [Read more...]
FAQ on AEC-Q100 Automotive IC Reliability Standard, Part 2
To ensure that the myriad electronic systems in today’s vehicles do not fail prematurely, the AEC-Q100 standard for active components defines stringent tests across all aspects of performance. This part continues the exploration of AEC-Q100 and … [Read more...]
How do you measure and manage a thermal load?
Electric vehicles (EVs) experience thermal loads from heat generated by the battery pack, motor, power electronics, brakes, and the cabin heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system. These thermal loads must be managed to varying degrees … [Read more...]
How does an HVAC system work in a pure EV?
One of the main differences between heating, ventilation, and cooling (HVAC) systems in internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles and electric vehicles (EVs) is their power source. That difference results in several differences in implementation … [Read more...]
What are contactless connectors used for?
Contactless connectivity is an emerging technology. A few initial applications for contactless connectors include USB SuperSpeed, Gigabit Ethernet, DisplayPort, PROFINET, EtherCAT, and single-pair Ethernet (SPE). Contactless connectors are … [Read more...]
What EV battery management system (BMS) architectures are used today?
A battery management system (BMS) ensures safe and efficient energy distribution for electric vehicles (EVs). This article discusses the four primary BMS architectures used in popular EVs, details BMS integration with charging infrastructure, and … [Read more...]
What are the challenges in designing V2X and radar antenna connectors?
Vehicle-to-everything (V2X) connectivity and automotive radar are important technologies required to support higher levels of autonomous operation. Antennas are critical components in both types of systems, and the connectors needed with the antennas … [Read more...]
What is a thermal load in EVs?
Thermal loads are heat sources. The most significant thermal loads in EVs are the major powertrain components, including the battery pack, motor, power electronics, and charger. Additional thermal loads include the cabin heating, ventilation, and … [Read more...]
What types of connectors are used on autonomous vehicles?
Connectors on autonomous vehicles can be classified by their mechanical characteristics and their electrical capabilities. Numerous types of connectors are needed when designing autonomous vehicles. This FAQ begins by looking at connectors' … [Read more...]
What effect do signals and their harmonics have on EV power cables?
Power electronic converters in electric vehicle (EV) chargers inevitably generate signals with harmonic distortion. This article explores the origins of harmonic distortion in such signals, analyzes their impact on EV power cables, and details key … [Read more...]
How does a wireless BMS work?
The life of lithium-ion batteries depends on how each cell is managed throughout its life. This is the job of the battery management system (BMS). If a cell is discharged to an extreme end of its state of charge, especially below 2.5V, its life … [Read more...]
What connectors are used for single-pair Ethernet and PoDL?
Single-pair Ethernet (SPE) and power over data lines (PoDL) enable data transmission and power over a single pair of wires. SPE was developed to bring the benefits of Ethernet connectivity to the factory floor for sensors, actuators, Industrial … [Read more...]
FAQ on AEC-Q100 Automotive IC Reliability Standard, Part 1
To ensure that the myriad electronic systems in today’s cars do not fail prematurely, the AEC-Q100 standard for active components defines stringent tests across all aspects of performance. In just a few decades, the automobile has gone from a … [Read more...]
How do liquid metal batteries fit in EV and BESS designs?
Liquid metal batteries are being developed primarily for battery energy storage system (BESS) systems but may find future applications in electric vehicles (EVs) and wearables and portable devices. The first commercial BESS using a liquid metal … [Read more...]
How uneven temperatures in battery packs affect performance?
Uneven temperatures within a battery pack can negatively affect its performance, longevity, and efficiency. Having all the cells at almost the same operating temperature is necessary for proper charging and discharging of the battery pack in an … [Read more...]
How does EV battery aging affect range and performance?
Many electric vehicles (EVs) are equipped with lithium-ion batteries (Li-ion or LIB) that offer high energy and power density. Although the lifespan of EV batteries typically averages eight to 15 years, factors such as climate, driving habits, and … [Read more...]