C h a p t e r 1
What challenges do powertrains in
passenger cars face?
Increasing battery voltage is one way to maximize
energy efficiency. Current EVs utilize voltages
ranging from 300VDC to 400VDC, but doubling
to 800VDC would allow less current to be drawn,
thereby reducing energy waste because of lower
I
2
R losses in the cables. At the same time, a higher
voltage facilitates faster charge times.
However, increasing the voltage of powertrains
introduces many challenges. The first is that all
components directly connected to the powertrain
need to be able to handle higher input voltages.
Cables and connectors handling the increased
voltages will also need to be rated accordingly.
PASSENGER CAR
POWERTRAIN
SOLUTIONS
Following a similar path to all new
technologies, the efficiency of the electric
vehicle will be a critical development–
being able to better use the stored
electrochemical energy. By increasing the
voltage (by about double), the electrical and
mechanical efficiencies can be improved.
For the same amount of power delivery, the
cables can be reduced in cross-sectional
area, reducing weight and cost."
Juergen Scheele
VP, Business Development & Product Management, xEV Passenger Vehicle Business, Littelfuse
6
7 Experts on Automotive Powertrains
