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UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN STUDENTS HAVE HAND IN VOLT BATTERY RELIABILITY

  • Magazine Feature Article
  • 15MOMP03_04
Published March 01, 2015 by SAE International in United States
Language:
  • English

Technology co-developed by U of M monitors the quality of welds used in the joining of Chevy Volt battery cells.

Electric vehicles (EVs) have received tremendous attention recently due to their advantages compared with vehicles using internal-combustion engines (ICEs). The energy efficiency of EVs can reach about 59-62%, while that of conventional gasoline vehicles is only about 17-21%. EVs also are more environmentally friendly, producing no tailpipe emissions. Their electric motors provide quiet, smooth operation and better acceleration, and they require less maintenance.

However, to produce high-performance and high-quality EVs, there are many development challenges that must be faced. A crucial one is producing reliable, high-capacity battery packs. Such battery packs must provide a long driving range, be robust to harsh conditions such as severe road vibrations and high humidity, and have production costs that are affordable.