The automotive sector is moving towards creating a greener future. So, manufacturers are trying to design eco-friendly designs. The trend has led to the innovation of electric vehicles. Prominent automakers have already launched different electric automobiles with advanced features. It means EV powertrains have an exciting future. What are the powertrains of electric vehicles? Learn about the differences between these powertrains.
What are EV powertrains?
An electric car powertrain combines different systems and components in an EV. These components work together seamlessly to cause a conversion of electric energy from the energy storage or battery of your vehicle. It helps in driving the vehicle to the front. So, the powertrain is the main part of the electric car to make transportation more efficient. It has replaced conventional internal combustion engines with modern electric propulsion. The major components of a powertrain are-
- Power Electronics
- Battery
- Electric motor
The harmonious functioning of the components makes transportation eco-friendly and efficient. They can power electric cars and reduce dependence on conventional internal combustion engines.
Explaining how EV powertrains perform their functions
EV powertrains have battery packs that combine separate Li-ion cells storing electrical energy. It leads to the formation of chemical energy. The battery pack’s capacity is measured in kWH that lets you calculate the overall distance covered by an electric vehicle on a single full charge.
EVs have power electronics to transform the DC energy into AC power. The conversion allows the motor to create mechanical energy to move your car.
The electric motor generates electric energy, which is processed by electrical energy for electricity conversion into usable energy. It is consumed by the automotive systems. For instance, the onboard systems of the car need power for proper functioning.
During braking, your car’s regenerative braking systems let you capture kinetic energy. The energy is used for feeding back into the vehicle’s battery.
There are some systems for controlling and monitoring. The control units include the drive control systems to check different parameters like energy consumption and temperature.
Various categories of EV powertrains–
Before purchasing an electric car, you should learn about different powertrains-
Hybrid Electric Vehicle
Some powertrains involve using both the gasoline engine and the electric motor. HEV powertrains combine the power sources to ensure higher fuel efficiency because the vehicle uses minimal gasoline.
The electrically operated motor stores the energy in a battery pack. It is charged using the gasoline engine and regenerative braking. However, the gasoline-powered engine and electric motor function independently based on your needs and driving conditions.
Modern hybrid technology traps energy lost in traditional vehicles during deceleration. It helps with the conversion of electricity saved in the car battery. It makes your driving more efficient. HEV benefits you in several ways-
- Better air quality
- Lower fuel cost
- Minimize tailpipe emission
- Regenerative braking
- The potential to use gas stations allows you to avoid the need to access the charging station.
But, there are some demerits of HEV powertrains. The maintenance charge for HEVs is higher because of complicated mechanics. Moreover, there are still some emissions causing air pollution. The upfront cost is also comparatively high.
Honda Insight and Toyota Prius are the most popular hybrid EVs.
Fuel Cell EV powertrain
FCEVs rely on hydrogen fuel cells efficiently at converting the energy into the required electricity for powering the vehicle. FCEVs are different from conventional gasoline-powered vehicles and do not produce emissions. There are hydrogen tanks in the cars like fuel tanks in standard automobiles. You can refuel them quickly within a few minutes. The driving range is more than 300 miles. Many prominent carmakers have introduced FCEVs though there is limited availability. Production capacity varies with the existing infrastructure.
FCEV is advantageous for several reasons-
- The smaller-sized battery in FCEV leads to a reduced replacement charge.
- The battery pack of this EV powertrain has a low weight and improved performance.
- Recharge the FCEV quickly
- Regenerative braking.
Currently, there are some demerits of FCEVs. You may find fueling stations only in a few states. The FCEV refueling cost is higher than charging the EV. Although FCEV is highly popular, hydrogen fuel is produced from some non-renewable sources.
Hyundai Nexo and Toyota Mirai are some examples of FCEV powertrains.
Battery Electric Vehicles
Traditional cars are different from BEVs because the latter do not rely on internal combustion engines. BEVs are operated only by batteries that are charged using Level 1 to 3 chargers.
Level 1 or 2 chargers are for home charging. On the contrary, commercial charging stations for Level 3 EV chargers are meant for commercial charging stations.
As ICE is absent in BEVs, these vehicles travel a long distance on a single full charge. However, BEVs are getting advanced very fast, as they will be the future in the transportation industry.
The main advantages of BEV are
- High cost-effectiveness due to the simple design- The battery sends the power to the motor.
- No tailpipe emission
- Regenerative braking
- Bigger and better-performing batter
- Low operating costs
Some negative sides of BEV are-
- You should plug in BEVs to charge, and the overall process takes significant time.
- You need to make a charging plan for a long trip because the range is slightly shorter.
- The initial investment in BEV is higher than that of other electric cars.
Chevrolet Bolt and Tesla Model 3 are examples of BEVs.
Choose the best EV powertrain
As you have understood different EV powertrains, you can make the right choice. If you are concerned about the charging infrastructure, you can choose a hybrid EV. BEV is best for those who need an affordable, low-maintenance car. FCEV is another popular choice for consumers who prefer quick refueling times.
The EV powertrain is a sophisticated innovation providing benefits like efficiency and eco-friendliness. The technology is improving slowly, and EVs have become highly popular. So, compare the powertrains before making an investment in the electric vehicles.
