Electric Vehicles (EVs)
An Electric Vehicle (EV) is powered exclusively by electric motors using energy stored in batteries. It does not use internal combustion engines or fossil fuels for propulsion.
Main Components of an Electric Vehicle:
1. Electric Propulsion Subsystem:
- Vehicle Controller – Acts as the brain, interpreting accelerator/brake inputs.
- Power Electronic Converter (Inverter) – Converts DC battery power to AC for the motor and vice versa during braking (regenerative).
- Electric Motor (Traction Motor) – Drives the wheels using electricity.
- Mechanical Transmission – Transfers torque from motor to wheels.
- Driving Wheels – Receive motion from the transmission.
2. Energy Source Subsystem:
- Battery Pack – Stores electrical energy (usually lithium-ion).
- Energy Management Unit – Optimizes energy use and battery health.
- Energy Refueling Unit – Charging ports or onboard generator (in case of extended range EVs).
3. Auxiliary Subsystem:
- Power Steering Unit
- Hotel Climate Control Unit – Air conditioning, cabin comfort systems.
- Auxiliary Supply Unit – Provides low-voltage power to lights, wipers, infotainment, etc.
Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs)
A Hybrid Vehicle combines two power sources — typically:
- An internal combustion engine (ICE) (petrol/diesel)
- An electric motor powered by a battery
Main Components of a Hybrid Vehicle:
1. Internal Combustion Engine (ICE):
- Provides propulsion using fuel (like petrol/diesel).
- Works alone or with the motor depending on driving conditions.
2. Motor/Generator (M/G):
- Acts as a Motor (M-mode) – Provides torque and assists ICE.
- Acts as a Generator (G-mode) – Regenerates energy during braking.
3. Battery Pack:
- Stores energy from regenerative braking and ICE-generated electricity.
- Supplies power to the electric motor.
4. Transmission:
- Combines outputs from ICE and motor and transmits to wheels.
5. Controller & Power Electronics:
- Coordinates power distribution between ICE and electric motor.
Types of Hybrid Configurations:
- Series Hybrid: Engine generates electricity to charge battery → Motor drives wheels.
- Parallel Hybrid: Both engine and motor can drive the wheels simultaneously.
- Series-Parallel Hybrid: Combines both for efficiency and flexibility.
Figure: Components of a hybrid Vehicle that combines a pure gasoline with a pure EV.