Vehicle Electrification - January 2021
See how Ford, Volkswagen, Cadillac, and other manufacturers are pushing the boundaries of battery & EV design to compete with Tesla in a rapidly growing market, plus learn about the latest EV testing technologies and standards in this compendium of recent articles from the editors of Automotive Engineering and Truck & Off-Highway Engineering.
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Overview
The Vehicle Electrification Special Report from January 2021 provides a comprehensive overview of the current state and future prospects of electric vehicles (EVs), particularly focusing on battery electric vehicles (BEVs). The report highlights key developments in the automotive industry as manufacturers pivot towards electrification in response to changing consumer demands and environmental considerations.
One of the standout features of the report is the introduction of the Ford Mustang Mach-E, Ford's first dedicated BEV built on an all-new electric vehicle platform. The Mach-E represents a significant step for Ford as it navigates the challenges and opportunities associated with developing state-of-the-art electric vehicles. The report emphasizes the importance of design elements such as aerodynamics, tire profiles, and vehicle height, which are critical for optimizing performance and efficiency.
Another major highlight is Volkswagen's ID.4, which is positioned as a mass-market EV aimed at making electrification accessible to a broader audience. This vehicle is part of VW's strategy to lead the charge in the electrification movement, showcasing the company's commitment to sustainable mobility.
The report also delves into the intricacies of EV testing and development, featuring insights from FEV, a renowned powertrain engineering group that has expanded its focus to include EV technologies. The rigorous testing processes for EV components, including innovative methods like static testing of battery packs, are discussed, underscoring the importance of safety and reliability in the rapidly evolving EV landscape.
A significant section of the report addresses the battery market, which is projected to grow substantially, from $49 billion in 2017 to over $85 billion by 2025, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.02%. This growth is driven by the increasing production of electrified vehicles and the demand for advanced battery technologies. The report highlights the competitive landscape among battery cell suppliers, emphasizing the challenges related to production scale, yield, and the development of new cell technologies.
Additionally, the report features innovative projects such as Triumph's TE-1 e-motorcycle, which aims to push the boundaries of battery performance through the use of new materials and cell technologies. This project exemplifies the ongoing efforts to enhance energy density and overall performance in electric mobility.
The report also touches on the introduction of a new SAE wireless charging standard, which is expected to be a game-changer for EV charging infrastructure, making it more convenient for users. Other notable mentions include Cadillac's reveal of the Lyriq electric vehicle and Mahle's advancements in electrification research and development, particularly in battery cooling capabilities.
In summary, the Vehicle Electrification Special Report provides a detailed look at the transformative changes occurring in the automotive industry as it embraces electrification. With a focus on innovative technologies, market trends, and the challenges ahead, the report serves as a valuable resource for understanding the future of electric mobility and the ongoing shift towards sustainable transportation solutions.
