Electric Cars 2.0: How Mechanical Engineering is Driving the Evolution of Electric Vehicles

By Ranjith Kumar TA

Senior Project Manager, Bosch Global Software Technologies

As someone who specialises in mechanical engineering, I have been amazed by the advancements in the transportation Industry. The rise of electric vehicles in recent years has been intriguing, given their impressive efficiency, minimal emissions, and decreased reliance on traditional fossil fuels. As a result, it is important to learn about electric vehicle technology and its advancements, especially for mechanical engineering students. In this article, I will be providing an overview of electric vehicle technology, its benefits, and the importance of including it in the mechanical engineering syllabus.

 

Automobiles that run on electricity rather than petrol or diesel are known as electric cars (EVs). An electric motor and a rechargeable battery power these cars, eliminating the requirement for an internal combustion engine. The battery is charged by plugging the car into an electrical socket or a charging station. Electric vehicles are becoming increasingly popular due to their decreased environmental effect, lower operating costs, and enhanced performance.

πŸ’‘The Future of Transportation: Electric Vehicles

The future of transportation is electric, and this trend is expected to continue in the coming years. According to a report by the national news, electric vehicles will make up half of the global car sales by 2035. Several causes drive this shift towards electric vehicles, including environmental concerns, government requirements, and technological breakthroughs.

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Furthermore, advances in electric car technology have resulted in higher efficiency, longer ranges, and faster charging periods. The Tesla Model S, for example, can drive up to 402 miles on a single charge, while the Porsche Taycan can charge up to 80% in 22.5 minutes. Because of these developments, electric vehicles have become more practical and compelling to consumers.

Electric car technology has advanced significantly since the first electric vehicle first appeared in the 1800s. Technology developments have resulted in enhanced battery technology, increased efficiency, and lower costs over the years. Today, electric vehicles are more practical and reliable than ever before.
One of the most important developments in electric car technology has been the discovery of lithium-ion batteries, which are lighter, more effective, and have a longer lifespan than traditional lead-acid batteries. This has led to increased range, faster charging times, and improved performance.

In addition, electric vehicles are equipped with regenerative braking systems, which convert kinetic energy into electrical energy during braking, further increasing their efficiency. Furthermore, advancements in motor technology have led to more powerful and efficient electric motors, which provide better acceleration and performance.

Electric vehicles are a crucial part of the future of transportation, and it is crucial to include them in the mechanical engineering syllabus. By educating students about electric car technology, we can provide them with the know-how and tools they require to be successful in the area. In addition, demand for engineers with knowledge of electric car technology is rising as electric vehicles gain popularity. By including electric vehicles in the mechanical engineering syllabus, students will have a competitive advantage in the job market.

πŸ“– Key Topics to Cover in an Electric Vehicle Course

When teaching electric vehicle technology, several key topics should cover to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the subject. These topics include:

πŸ‘‰ Battery technology

πŸ‘‰ Charging Infrastructure

πŸ‘‰ Vehicle Control System

It is crucial to have hands-on learning opportunities if you want to have a practical understanding of electric vehicle technology. This may entail creating your electric vehicle from scratch, maintaining an electric vehicle, or working with its components. You will have a chance to use the knowledge acquired in the classroom and build your practical abilities while having hands-on learning opportunities.

When teaching electric vehicle technology, it is essential to have access to the right resources and tools. This can include textbooks, online courses, simulation software, and electric vehicle components.The Electric Car Infrastructure Training Program (EVITP), the National Electric Vehicle Technology Education Program (NEVTEP), and the Electric Vehicle Institute are just a few of the resources and tools that are available to teach electric car technology. These resources provide valuable information and training materials that can be used to enhance your electric vehicle course.