In the rapidly evolving landscape of electric vehicles (EVs), one critical component often overshadowed by battery advancements is the power electronics that drive these vehicles. A groundbreaking study published in Discover Applied Sciences, the English translation of ‘Discover Applied Sciences,’ sheds light on the global research trends and future directions of EV power electronics, offering a roadmap for the energy sector’s commercial impacts.
Led by Gaddala Anusha from the Centre for Emerging Energy Technologies (CEET) at SR University, the research delves into the intricacies of DC-DC converters, inverters, and charging systems—components that are pivotal in optimizing the performance and efficiency of EVs. Anusha and her team analyzed a decade’s worth of research, from 2010 to 2024, drawing data from prestigious journals indexed in Scopus and Web of Science. Their findings reveal a surge in technological advancements and a growing interest in power converter technologies, with India emerging as a significant contributor to the field.
“The adoption of electric vehicles is not just about reducing greenhouse gas emissions; it’s about reducing our dependence on fossil fuels,” Anusha explains. “However, there are several barriers to optimizing the power conversion systems in EVs, including energy loss, battery limitations, and the need for efficient charging management.”
The study highlights that India has published 1,109 papers and garnered 17,793 citations in this domain, underscoring the country’s growing influence in EV research. This surge in research activity is driven by a combination of government policies, industrial investments, and technological innovations. Anusha notes, “Government policy, alongside industrial investments and new technology, underpins EV adoption innovation.”
One of the key recommendations from the study is the need for higher-level financing of efficient power converter technologies. As EVs become more prevalent, the demand for robust and efficient power conversion systems will only increase. This presents a significant opportunity for the energy sector to invest in and develop cutting-edge technologies that can meet this demand.
Another area of focus is the enhancement of battery recycling processes. As the number of EVs on the road grows, so will the need for sustainable disposal and recycling of batteries. Innovations in this area can not only reduce environmental impact but also create new commercial opportunities.
The study also emphasizes the importance of Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) systems. V2G technology allows EVs to feed energy back into the grid, making it more robust and resilient. This bidirectional flow of energy can help stabilize the grid, especially during peak demand periods, and create new revenue streams for EV owners.
As the energy sector continues to evolve, the insights from this research will be invaluable. The commercial impacts are vast, from the development of new technologies to the creation of sustainable business models. The future of EV power electronics is bright, and with continued investment and innovation, the energy sector can play a pivotal role in shaping this future.
For those in the energy sector, the message is clear: the time to invest in EV power electronics is now. The technological advancements and policy support are in place, and the commercial opportunities are immense. As Anusha and her team have shown, the future of EVs is not just about the vehicles themselves but about the power that drives them.