How does an Electric Vehicle (EV) Work?
An electric vehicle uses stored DC electrical energy from the high-voltage battery to create propulsion force. To use this power; the DC power is inverted into AC power by the Electric Powertrain Control Unit(EPCU) which is then delivered to the drive motor. The motor is then capable of delivering it's maximum torque from zero RPM for this power to be transferred to the reducer. The reducer harnesses the rotational torque from the drive motor to be delivered to the wheels. During deceleration, the drive motor delivers AC voltage back to the EPCU to supply DC power back to the high voltage battery. This is called regenerative braking.
Electric Vehicle Key Components
High-voltage Battery Assembly
The high-voltage battery assembly is the power storage centre of all electric vehicles. Besides storing electricity when charged, this system also monitors battery state-of-charge, cuts off power to the vehicle during maintenance or repair and balance individual battery cells to ensure optimal performance. All Hyundai electric vehicles use lithium-ion polymer high-voltage batteries located underneath the cabin floor.
Electric Motor/Generator
The drive motor is in the engine of the electric vehicle. Depending on the direction of the electrical power applied to the motor, the vehicle will accelerate either forward or in reverse. All commands to the motor are directed by the Electrical Powertrain Control Unit based on driver input. Unlike a conventional gas engine, an electrical motor is able to deliver 100% of it's torque from zero RPM. It also does not require regular maintenance such as engine oil or filters.
Speed Reducer
The speed reducer receives and reduces rotational power from the electric motor to increase rotational torque to the wheels. It's key purpose is to reduce the motor's RPM which increases output torque. The reducer assumes the role of a transmisison and it's sole purpose is to harness the torque from the electric motor starting at zero RPM and subsequently deliver this power to the wheels via a fixed final drive ratio.Â
Electric Powertrain Control Unit
The Electric Powertrain Control Unit, also known as the "EPCU" is the command center of the electric vehicle. This system is the brains of the vehicle and is responsible for executing all driver commands ranging from acceleration, regeneration braking, power accessories and system temperature management. The EPCU is compromised of the Motor Control Untit (MCU), Low-voltage DC to DC Converter (LDC) and the Vehicle control unit (VCU).
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Common Q&A's
Q. How far can I drive in the cold?
A. As gas vehicles consume more fuel in the winter, the similar concept applies to EVs. To combat external factors, the batteries are automatically warmed up while driving to maintain it's optimal operating condition. The Kona EV has a maximum estimated range of 415 kms and the Ioniq has a maximum estimated range of 274 kms.
Q. Don't batteries take up a lot of space?
A. The High-voltage battery in all Hyundai vehicles are stored primarily under the cabin floor. Therefore, Hyundai EV's are just as spacious as their gas-engine counterpart. Example Kona vs Kona EV. In additional, the battery's position provides an excellent centre of gravity and improves driving traction.
Q. Can I charge an EV in the rain?
A. Absolutely! Owners may charge their EV in the rain or snow with no fear of electrical damage to the car. Hyundai vehicles are thoroughly insulated and sealed from water intrusion. The system is also smart enough to disable power flow if the system detects water intrusion.
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