In recent years, electric vehicles (EVs) have emerged as a major trend in automotive development. In 2023, global sales of new energy vehicles reached 14.653 million units, marking a 35.4% increase from the previous year. Among these, China’s sales of new energy vehicles accounted for 9.495 million units, representing 64.8% of the global market.
But, do you know what the critical components of an electric vehicle are?
An all-electric vehicle (EV), also known as a battery electric vehicle, is powered by an electric motor instead of an internal combustion engine. The vehicle uses a large traction battery pack to power the electric motor, which must be charged by plugging into a wall outlet or charging station, also known as Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE). Since it runs on electricity, the vehicle does not emit exhaust from a tailpipe and does not contain typical liquid fuel components, such as a fuel pump, fuel line, or fuel tank.
1.Power Battery Pack
Also known as the Electric Vehicle Battery (EVB), it powers the EV’s electric motor. The battery acts as an energy storage system, storing energy in the form of direct current. The range increases with the kilowatts of the battery. The life span and operation depend on its design. The traction battery pack is estimated to have a life span of 200,000 miles.
2.DC-DC Converter
The traction battery pack provides constant voltage. However, different parts of the electric vehicle have different requirements. The DC-DC converter distributes the power output from the battery to the required levels. It also provides the voltage needed to charge auxiliary batteries.
3.Electric Motor
The electric traction motor is a key component of an electric vehicle. The motor converts electrical energy into mechanical energy, which spins the wheels. A notable feature of electric motors in EVs is the regenerative braking mechanism, which slows down the vehicle by converting its kinetic energy into another form and storing it for future use. There are basically two types of motors: DC and AC motors.
4.Power Inverter
This component converts the battery’s DC into AC. It also converts the AC generated during regenerative braking back into DC. This is further used to charge the battery. The inverter can alter the speed.
5.Charging Port
The charging port connects the electric vehicle to an external power supply for charging the battery pack. The charging port is sometimes located at the front or rear part of the EV.
6.Onboard Charger
The onboard charger converts the AC power received from the charging port into DC power for charging the battery pack. It is located inside the vehicle and monitors various battery characteristics while controlling the current flowing within the battery pack.
7.Controller
The power electronics controller determines how an electric vehicle operates. It regulates the flow of electrical energy from the battery to the motor. The speed of the vehicle and the frequency of voltage changes to the motor are determined by the driver’s pedal settings. It also controls the generated torque.
8.Auxiliary Battery
The auxiliary battery serves as a source of electrical power for the EV’s accessories. In the absence of the main battery, the auxiliary battery continues to power the vehicle. It can prevent voltage drops during engine start-up from affecting the electrical system.
9.Thermal System (Cooling)
The thermal management system is responsible for maintaining the operating temperature of key components of the EV, such as the electric motor and controller. It also plays a role during charging to achieve optimal performance. It combines thermoelectric cooling, forced air cooling, and liquid cooling.
10.Transmission
The transmission transfers mechanical power from the electric motor to the wheels. An advantage of electric vehicles is that they do not require multi-speed transmissions. Transmission efficiency should be high to avoid power losses.