The electrification of vehicles has emerged as a prevalent trend worldwide in the automotive sector, so much so that by 2025, certain governments will prohibit the production of vehicles powered by gasoline or diesel fuel and instead, will only allow electric vehicles. Consequently, vehicle manufacturers must adjust to a new auto-electric world, to do so means they will need to improve the look, technology, range of options, and the variety of safety standards of their vehicles. 

As this industry continues to evolve automotive manufacturers will be subject to new forms of competition, beginning with a decreased level of expertise in electric vehicles and an increase in the number of regulations that must be adhered to. To meet their goals, manufacturers must eliminate problems, cut costs, and reduce time to market. 

Key Challenges facing Aerodynamics and Electric Battery Technology

When examining how electric and autonomous vehicle technologies work and how modeling tools function, one of the most recent concerns for manufacturers is aerodynamics.  

When it comes to producing electric vehicles, aerodynamics should be of top priority because it is the area which may impact driving range the most, having a direct impact on the practicality and economy of the vehicle. Because of this, electric cars will require a different aerodynamic process as well as more research and development to increase capacity and improve charging times.  

The battery is one of the most vital parts of an electric car, but it is also the most complicated and prone to problems and limitations. In order to increase the consumer appetite for electric vehicles, batteries will need to have increased capacity as well as a higher energy density to overcome range anxiety. By considering these factors, new solutions could allow the range of electric cars to be closer to 500 or 600 miles, significantly improving on the previous threshold of 200 to 300 miles. 

How can SIMULIA’s POWERFLOW support Aerodynamic Battery Technology?

Simulation plays an essential part in developing these new electric batteries, not only by decreasing physical testing but also by gaining insights into things that are usually not evaluated due to their small scale. Simulation can screen out nonviable options early in the design process and supplement experiments once candidates have discovered to provide insight into what cannot be measured.  

The electrical simulation model with POWERFLOW was created to interact with PowerTHERM and anticipate dynamic changes in battery voltage and heat generation during arbitrary drive cycles. PowerTHERM and PowerFLOW were both used to implement the thermal model. PowerTHERM was used to mimic conduction and radiation, while PowerFLOW was used to simulate cooling airflow and coolant, depending on the cooling system’s details. 

Watch the Webinar to find out more > Overcoming Electric Vehicle Challenges: Aerodynamic Battery Technology

This webinar will explore how:

• Simulation plays an essential part in developing new electric batteries
• Simulation can screen out nonviable options early in the design process and supplement physical experiments
• POWERFLOW & PowerTHERM can be used to anticipate dynamic changes in battery voltage and heat generation during arbitrary drive cycles
• PowerTHERM can be used to mimic conduction and radiation
• PowerFLOW can be used to simulate cooling airflow and coolant, depending on the cooling system’s details

Join us for this complimentary webinar and discover the benefits and capabilities that the 3DEXPERIENCE platform can provide. REGISTER