Training network boosts research in electric car development
Tremendous research and development is devoted to hybrid vehicles and EVs, and to the necessary recharging infrastructure. However, there is still no university programme that integrates all essential aspects, including noise, vibration and harshness (NVH), lightweight design (LWD) and hybridisation/electrification (H/E) aspects. If not integrated under the umbrella of Evs, these topics can create conflicting design demands. The EU-funded ELIQUID project trained early-stage researchers (ESRs) through doctoral research in the interdisciplinary fields required for efficient EV development. ELIQUID brought together four ESRs and experienced specialists from key academia and industry players to carry out research in NVH, LWD and H/E. As part of their doctoral theses, ESRs received support to identify innovative topics and undergo specific education in theoretical and practical training. The education comprised existing lectures in the partner network and training specifically developed for the interdisciplinary needs. Fellows participated in both the scientific research work and the practical application of new methods for testing and simulation. Each wrote a self-assessment report. An open-access book that is freely downloadable on the project website incorporates these public domain reports. It provides insight into the theoretical development of the approaches studied within ELIQUID, and assesses their industrial applicability, open research questions and future challenges. The documents should assist other stakeholders in tackling the substantial challenges that exist in NVH assessment of Evs. Two leading education and research institutions and an association of automotive research and development organisations helped to develop and promote research, knowledge, and the application of NVH analysis and design techniques within the EU industry. A public technical course was also held. Several internationally renowned experts in the vibro-acoustics field gave speeches that addressed current research challenges related to NVH aspects of future mobility solutions involving LWD and electrified powertrains. The teamwork afforded by ELIQUID’s academic-industrial partnership should fill the current gaps in EV development with major benefits for the EU economy and its citizens.
Keywords
Electric vehicles, noise, vibration and harshness, lightweight design, hybridisation/electrification, ELIQUID