The widespread adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) has introduced distinct engineering challenges, particularly in the design of battery packs, which are crucial for vehicle performance, safety, and longevity. A critical requirement is maintaining ingress protection (IP) ratings of IP67 or higher to protect the high voltage battery packs against water and dust exposure. These ratings are crucial for ensuring compliance with homologation standards and meeting the demands of diverse terrains and operating conditions. Consequently, achieving effective sealing of EV battery packs is a fundamental aspect of their design and engineering.
This study presents a comprehensive analysis of sealing technologies employed in EV battery packs, focusing on four primary types: adhesive-based sealants, Formed-In-Place Gaskets, foam cut seals, and rubber gaskets. Benchmarking data collected from over 100 vehicle models across more than 50 brands provides insights into adoption trends, historical shifts, and the evolution of sealing technologies within the EV industry. The study examines potential reasons driving the choice of specific sealing methods, considering factors such as material properties, manufacturing costs, ease of application, and design considerations. While the analysis is based on industry trends and technical knowledge, it acknowledges that inferred strategies and preferences may differ slightly from the actual intentions or proprietary decisions of original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). Ultimately, this paper serves as a benchmark resource for researchers and industry professionals, offering critical insights into trends, challenges, and innovations in achieving optimal sealing performance for EV battery systems.