CONTENTS
Welcome
Longer range, faster charging, greater eff iciency: These are the key challenges for all electric vehicle manufacturers as the electrifi cation transition continues. Automotive is the clear frontrunner in this area, with range improvements coming from powertrain advances (page 10), enhanced converter power density (page 24) and greater SiC adoption within EV power electronics (page 40). Lightweighting is also a crucial
aspect of range enhancement, as detailed in our cover story (page 6) which unveils how powertrain development is delivering lighter, more compact engines for EVs. Giving thought to material selection and component design (page 28) is vital to enabling lighter vehicles, and this is true of the aviation sector too – see page 38 for more. Naturally, advanced test systems
and environments are vital to the development of new technologies and processes for EVs. This issue looks at a new purpose-built testing facility for EV charging infrastructure and batteries (page 30), the role advanced sensor technologies can play in vehicle safety testing (page 32) and how permanent bonding tapes are meeting demanding assembly challenges (page 36). Electrifi cation promises to be
a key talking point at upcoming industry events IAA Transportation in Hannover, Germany, and Cenex Expo in Milton Keynes, UK, both taking place in September. If you’d like to extend your knowledge of the latest e-mobility trends beyond these pages, our show preview section will give you a run-down of what to expect from the events.
Hayley Everett Editor
www.engineerlive.com 8 3
6 COVER 6 8 10
– AUGUST 2024 – MATERIALS
WEIGHT-LOSS PLAN Delivering lighter, more compact engines for EVs
POWER TRAIN
SIDESHAFT DURABILITY Improving the durability of sideshafts in EVs
FLIPPING THE SCRIPT Optimising driving range and charge times with EV powertrain advancements
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DRIVING CIRCULARITY Testing re-refi ned transmission fl uid for EV eff iciency
E-MOBILITY
OVERMOULDED BUSBARS How are overmoulded busbars powering modern electric transportation applications?
HYDROGEN POWER Making a success of hydrogen-powered fl eets
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