Autumn 2012

R&D Newsletter - EVS26 special

Welcome to the Autumn edition of the SMMT research and development newsletter. This quarterly publication pulls together articles written by researchers working on some of the latest and most innovative projects of interest to the automotive industry.

This edition has a special focus on the recent 26th Electric Vehicle Symposium (EVS) event that took place in Los Angeles in May 2012. The world's largest EV exhibition, EVS provides an opportunity for companies from around the world, involved in the EV market to come together, discuss issues, share knowledge and develop business opportunities.  

Articles specifically written for this edition are all based on cutting edge research projects that submitted papers for dissemination during EVS26.

EVS27 will take place in Barcelona from the 17-20 November 2013. Research paper submission for this event is now open. More information can be found via the AVERE website, EVS27 organisers and hosts.

Links

Overcoming the design challenges of in-wheel motors

In-wheel motors can offer some advantages over conventional motors for EVs but represent a significant challenge for design and implementation, given the high demands placed on them.
Protean Electric have developed a new in-wheel motor that has overcome the challenges the harsh operating environment, high performance demands and safety aspects place on the design process. Key issues addressed include sealing mechanisms, thermal management systems and the impact of the additional unsprung mass. Click here to view the full article.

Definition and optimisation of drive train topology for electric vehicles

The Institute of Automotive Technology, Technical University Munich, has developed a novel method for the definition and optimisation of EV drive train topology. Using a specially developed intelligent algorithm, the team has developed a method for identifying an optimal EV solution for a given set of input parameters through validation on a component level. The algorithm can define a vehicle model with the lowest possible energy consumption for the characteristics required, better and faster than current conventional optimisers. Click here to view the full article.

ULTraSim - the traffic simulator using microscopic vehicle models

In terms of future traffic management, new vehicle types and powertrains will have an impact on a number of factors, including traffic flow, energy consumption and route choice. The team at the University of Ulm, Germany, have devised a modular programme using dynamic traffic light systems, microscopic EV models, and realistic driver parameters to simulate future traffic scenarios. This will allow management systems to optimise energy consumption and travel time for multiple future route users. Click here to view the full article.

The Free Piston Linear Generator

The Free Piston Linear Generator (FPLG) is a free-piston combustion engine with an integrated linear generator that allows for highly efficient electrical energy generation, suitable for applications including as a range extender in EVs. Under development at the German Aerospace Centre (DLR) since 2003, the FPLG is now in a position to be taken to a proof of concept stage. Click here to view the full article.

SmartWheels - A concept for electric mobility in public transport

As part of the German Ministry of Economics and Technology's ICT for electric mobility programme, researchers at Aachen have developed a new vehicle concept offers emissions free city transport. Through a combination of simulation and innovative engineering and design using an exisiting vehicle model, the team developed a feasible and practical electric vehicle public transport solution. Click here to view the full article.

Next generation electrical steels extending the range of EVs

Recent metallurgical developments at ArcelorMittal have resulted in a range of electrical steels that can potentially extend the drive range of EVs through higher efficiency and power density traction motors. Recognising the different material requirements for the motor’s different components, namely a stator with very low loss and high permeability grades and high strength grades for the rotor, they have developed electrical steels proven to increase performance at a range of temperatures suitable for EV applications. Click here to view the full article.

Achieving high performance and a comfortable ride with direct-drive in-wheel motors

Some of the issues in-wheel motors present include adequately dealing with the high torque requirements from not having a gear system, and torque cogging effects at low speed spoiling the ride. A team of researchers from Keio University have developed a new direct drive in-wheel electric motor that combats these effects. Using 3D electromagnetic simulation software verified through real life evaluation, the team has developed a motor concept with the potential to smoothen in-wheel motor driven ride. Click here to view the full article.

Tackling EV safety in tropic environments

TUM CREATE, a joint research programme between the Technical University of Munich, Germany and Nanyang Technological University, Singapore is undertaking research into all aspects of electromobility in tropic environments. Given the temperature sensitivity of EV batteries, one of the key focal areas for the programme is battery management. Through a combination of simulation validation by experiments and computational fluid dynamics analysis, the team has developed a temperature distribution model for various cell types at different state of charge levels. This can help ensure the safety and reliability of EV lithium batteries in warmer, tropical markets in the future. Click here to view the full article.
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