The transition to 800-volt (V) electric vehicles (EVs) is one that affects the whole powertrain, including the power electronics. In IDTechEx’s new report, Power Electronics for Electric Vehicles 2026–2036: Technologies, Markets, and Forecasts, … [Read more...]
Q&A: Engineering modular powertrains for software-defined EVs
Electric vehicle (EV) powertrain design is entering a new stage of maturity, where mechanical, electrical, and software systems must operate as one. Engineers are now expected to create modular architectures that meet diverse vehicle requirements … [Read more...]
What are the advantages of a full-system approach to powertrain design?
Powertrain design is entering a new phase of electrification, where integration now matters more than individual component performance. The conventional method of engineering motors, inverters, and batteries in isolation is giving way to full-system … [Read more...]
Designing EV powertrains for high voltage and ultra-fast charging
Electric vehicle (EV) powertrains comprise the components that convert stored electrical energy into mechanical motion. These systems span the inverter, electric motor, single-speed gear reduction, and control electronics. Powertrains also integrate … [Read more...]
What are the latest cooling technologies for EV traction motors?
Electric vehicle (EV) traction motors must withstand sustained high power and high-speed operation. Keeping them properly cooled is essential to EV powertrain design and implementation. Several options exist for cooling EV traction motors depending … [Read more...]
What is the difference between an EV powertrain and drivetrain?
Although the terms powertrain and drivetrain are often used interchangeably, both are distinct and support their own set of functions. This article discusses the role of each in the context of electric vehicles (EVs), lists their key components, and … [Read more...]
What comprises an EV powertrain?
An electric vehicle (EV) powertrain includes a battery pack, a motor-drive controller with power electronics, a traction motor, and more. But that description only applies to battery electric vehicles (BEVs). For mild and strong hybrid vehicles … [Read more...]