Autonomous driving systems are introducing a new layer of design complexity to electric vehicles (EVs), particularly in terms of power, thermal, and system integration. Beyond advanced driver-assist systems, the shift is now to fully driverless … [Read more...]
Integrating MEMS technology into next-gen vehicle safety features
Sensor technology has revolutionized the automotive sector, enabling significant advancements in safety, comfort, and automation. Today, vehicles have systems that leverage precise sensing capabilities to enhance the driver and passenger experience … [Read more...]
Why residual current monitoring is critical for ac charging in EVs
With the increasing adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) in the US, charging infrastructure is continuing to evolve, bringing new use cases along with it. A notable example is Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X), where unused energy stored in the EV can be … [Read more...]
Beyond the drivetrain: A look at automotive sensor innovations
The auto industry is amid two transformative trends: the gradual transition from internal combustion engines (ICE) to electric motors and drivetrains and the ongoing development of driver assistance and self-driving features. Sensor technology is … [Read more...]
How do infotainments and non-safety sensors enhance the EV experience?
This article will discuss how infotainments and non-safety sensors offer a better electric vehicle (EV) driving experience. Despite many ongoing efforts to increase the EV range and safety, enhancing the driving experience is also gaining momentum to … [Read more...]
How does a position lock sensor work during EV charging?
The position lock sensor detects whether the electric vehicle (EV) charging connector is properly locked into place during the charging process. This safety feature prevents accidental disconnection or removal of the charging cable while charging is … [Read more...]
What are the types and uses of position and angle sensors in an EV?
Position and angle sensors are used in several electric vehicle (EV) components, including the traction motor and drivetrain, heating, ventilation, air-conditioning (HVAC) compressor, steer-by-wire, brake-by-wire, regenerative braking, accelerator … [Read more...]
Part II: Understanding current sensor designs
Part 1 of this article addressed current shunts and Hall-effect sensor designs. This part discusses current transformers and new technology options, such as magnetoresistance and diamond quantum sensors. One of the significant issues in today’s … [Read more...]
What are common sensor fusion applications in EVs?
Sensor fusion uses multiple sensor technologies in a single application. Examples include location and object detection, combining cameras, LiDAR, ultrasonic and radar sensors, and distributed voltage, temperature, and current sensors in electric … [Read more...]
How many thermal sensors are there in an EV?
Thermal sensors are used throughout electric vehicles (EVs), including in the battery pack, charger, charging handle, traction inverter, motor, dc/dc converter, passenger cabin, and under the hood. These sensors are among the most important … [Read more...]
Myths vs. facts: How EVs operate in the rain and snow
Electric vehicles (EVs) are designed to safely operate in rain, sleet, and snow. This article explains why hydroplaning risks are significantly lower for EV drivers and explores how crucial vehicle components, including batteries and electric motors, … [Read more...]
What types of MEMS sensors are used in EVs?
The microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) sensors used in electric vehicles (EVs) include inertial sensors, such as: Accelerometers and gyroscopes Magnetometers Pressure sensors Thermal sensors Gas sensors Optical MEMS MEMS are … [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...]
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...]