In a significant advancement for battery electric vehicles (BEVs), researchers led by Wei Li from the Jiaxing Research Institute at Zhejiang University have proposed a novel method to maintain battery temperature during driving in extremely cold conditions. This breakthrough, detailed in the ‘World Electric Vehicle Journal’, addresses a critical issue for BEVs operating in frigid environments, where battery performance can decline dramatically, leading to potential malfunctions and safety hazards.
As electric vehicles become more prevalent, particularly in regions experiencing harsh winter weather, the need for effective battery management systems has intensified. Traditional heating methods, such as heat pumps and positive temperature coefficient (PTC) heaters, often fall short in extreme cold, as they require significant power from the battery, which may not be available. The innovative approach introduced by Li and his team leverages the existing motor driving system to achieve internal self-heating of the battery without requiring additional hardware or modifications to the vehicle’s circuitry.
The proposed method utilizes a new algorithm called dead-zone space vector pulse width modulation (dSVPWM), which allows for the controlled generation of alternating current (AC) within the battery. This AC not only helps maintain the battery temperature but also ensures that the battery voltage remains within safe limits. The researchers found that, under low-speed urban driving conditions, the battery temperature fluctuation could be kept to within ±0.2 °C, effectively locking the minimum battery temperature at approximately −10 °C. Without this strategy, the battery temperature could drop by 1.44 °C per minute, posing significant risks.
Li emphasizes the commercial potential of this technology, stating, “By modifying the underlying strategy for motor control, we can hold the battery temperature above the set threshold, enhancing the driving experience without incurring additional costs for consumers.” This innovation not only promises to improve vehicle reliability and safety but also extends the driving range of electric vehicles in winter conditions, a critical factor for consumer acceptance.
The implications for the energy sector are substantial. As electric vehicles become more common, the demand for efficient battery management solutions will grow. This technology could lead to more robust and reliable electric vehicles, reducing the need for extensive charging infrastructure in cold climates and potentially lowering costs for manufacturers and consumers alike.
In summary, the research led by Wei Li represents a promising step forward in battery technology for electric vehicles, particularly in cold environments. By embedding self-heating capabilities into existing systems, this approach not only enhances vehicle performance but also opens new opportunities for the energy sector and the broader automotive industry. The findings were published in the ‘World Electric Vehicle Journal’, highlighting their relevance to the ongoing evolution of electric mobility.
