C h a p t e r 3
Why are fuses becoming
increasingly important in
vehicles?
Since the first combustion vehicles, fuses
have played a crucial part in protecting
sensitive components and cables
from overcurrent. However, the mass
introduction of EVs to the automotive
market has made fuses an essential
component for protecting all aspects of
an EV. Compared to ICEs, EVs require the
use of high voltages and high currents
and have extremely high-energy-density
batteries.
Given these requirements, two wires
shorting in an ICE could result in some
cable damage, but two wires shorting
in an EV could be outright disastrous,
permanently damaging motors and
components and causing thermal runaway
in batteries. Thus, engineers must
integrate fuses into modern EVs. With
numerous kinds of fuse technologies
available, engineers must choose the
right kind of fuse, especially if a quick
response is required.
How do you choose the right
fuse technology?
When selecting a fuse technology,
engineers should first consider the circuit
conditions that the fuse is expected to
experience. These conditions include
HIGH-VOLTAGE FUSE
OVERVIEW
Components used in automotive
environments need to be capable
of harsh conditions and guarantee
a long lifetime. Industrial fuses,
however, are not designed to resist
the vibration, load profiles, and
temperature shock conditions in
the field."
Michael Zimmermann
Business Development Manager, Tech Support xEV/EMEA,
Littelfuse
16
7 Experts on Automotive Powertrains
