This flexibility has led to significant technological improvements since the inception of the race. However, EV powertrains do contain additional electronics that include power converters, ferrite cores, shielded cables, and electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) filters to reduce the extra energy leakage and electromagnetic interference (EMI) caused by an all-electric power system.įigure 1: This diagram highlights the differences between EV and gas-powered powertrains.Īccording to Formula E racing rules, set by the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA), the powertrain is the primary area where manufacturers can add innovation to differentiate their race vehicles. Of course, the powertrain minus the engine is the drivetrain or driveline.Ĭompared to a gas-powered-vehicle powertrain, the EV powertrain is functionally less complex, as a simple electric motor replaces the more complex, gas-powered engine, as shown in Figure 1. In a gas-powered vehicle, the powertrain includes the engine, transmission, drive shafts, differentials, and the drive wheels. In general, an automotive powertrain embodies components that generate power-feeds to a set of wheels. To appreciate the harsh conditions that EV race cars experience, it helps to understand how an EV operates in contrast to traditional, internal combustion engine or gas-powered vehicles. Also, requirements for increasingly lightweight, small components mean electronics are closely crammed together, creating the possibility of more EMI. High DC- and AC-powered EV racers amplify the potential EMI problem. ![]() Extreme radiation: Any electrical current racing through a conducting cable creates electromagnetic radiation that can interfere with nearby electronics, sensors, and data flow.However, in EV racers, the major pressure concerns are the tires and the suspension system. In the former, engine oil, fuel, and even water pressure must be at optimal levels for peak performance. Extreme pressure: Pressure levels are directly affected by temperature (and vice versa) in both ICE-powered vehicles and EVs.Extreme vibration: Without the strong vibrations of an internal combustion engine (ICE), the primary sources of vibration in an EV are low-profile tires, stiff suspension, motors, and differential gears (if so equipped).While cold temperatures are more stressful on battery performance, warmer conditions still reduce the overall range. Extreme temperature (cold and heat): In addition to causing physical damage, extreme temperatures can affect both the operation of electronics and the driving range of EVs.From a design perspective, this is easier said than done, given the different types of harsh conditions (four of which we will look at below) and how those conditions affect the vehicle: ![]() This article will also share design techniques and insights on how to protect these valuable electronic sensors and ultimately improve an EV racer’s overall design, safety, and performance.ĮV racing systems require electronic components that can withstand wide temperature ranges, vibration, and pressure as well as simultaneously reduce EMI, voltage spikes, and ground currents. This article explores the four key types of extreme conditions that EV race car’s experience and how electronic measurement sensors play a role in monitoring and communicating vital data about these conditions. This complex system of components operates in extreme environmental conditions, such as temperature, vibration, pressure, and radiation, which means the system of electronics must have protection while operating at top performance in small spaces. ![]() ![]() Today’s high-end racers contain over 60 embedded semiconductor processors, and when fully instrumented, they also include many sensors, telemetry, and data acquisition components that communicate environmental data. The electronic systems in EV racers are complex in several ways. Formula E auto racing is not just a favorite spectator sport among auto hobbyists, but as a performance innovation hub, the sport continually contributes to the advancement of battery electric vehicles (BEVs)-or EVs, for short.
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