Hyundai Mobis develops power electric systems for all electric vehicle models
Hyundai Mobis says it has successfully developed a 160-kilowatt (kW) Power Electric (PE) system for general-purpose electric vehicle models, following its high-performance 250-kW PE system.
Hyundai Mobis plans to complete the development of a 120-kW PE system tailored for small mobility vehicles by the first half of this year, according to a press release.
“This is expected to establish a drive system lineup covering all types of electric vehicles while further enhancing Hyundai Mobis’ global competitiveness in electrification components,” the release states.
“While Hyundai Mobis had previously handled mass production of PE systems based on orders from customers, it has now secured the design technology for each auto component of the PE system through in-house R&D and is unveiling its own drive models. The PE system is a core auto component equivalent to the powertrain of an internal combustion engine and consists of a motor, inverter, and reduction gear.”
During development, Hyundai Mobis says it focused on standardizing and modularizing key auto components, including the stator for the drive motor, the inverter, and the power module, which is a bundle of power semiconductors.
“This system-level standard model offers advantages in terms of scalability, as it can be applied to various vehicle models through a platform-like approach,” the release states. “This is more efficient than the strategy of developing a new powertrain for each new vehicle launch. As the number of electric vehicle models increases, this approach is expected to be advantageous for future mass production.
“This method differs from the traditional approach used by global automakers, where they collaborated with individual automotive suppliers to develop component technologies and assemble the PE system.”
Hyundai Mobis says that some overseas customers have already shown significant interest.
The PE system has a maximum output equivalent to 215 horsepower produced by internal combustion engines, which Hyundai Mobis says is suitable for most electric vehicles currently in mass production. It notes it is also possible to install two PE systems, one on the front axle and the other on the rear axle, to double the maximum output.
Specific power, measured as power output per unit weight, increases by about 16% with the new system, while overall volume is reduced by nearly 20%.
“This was achieved through the extensive use of modular design technology and standard auto components,” the release states. “The company also improved the motor structure by applying new cooling technology and developed a power module utilizing power semiconductors that maximize energy efficiency.”
Before launching the new system, Hyundai Mobis had already completed the development of a high-efficiency, high-output 250-kilowatt-class PE system last year, according to the release.
Next, Hyundai Mobis plans to complete the development of a 120-kilowatt PE system tailored for compact cars within the first half of this year. The system will minimize size and weight compared to the other two models, while also offering price competitiveness tailored to emerging markets, the release states.
“With this, Hyundai Mobis will have a complete lineup of drive systems covering all types of electric vehicles, from small mobility solutions to high-performance vehicles,” the release states. “This will not only enable the company to meet the diverse needs of its customers but also allow for a differentiated product strategy tailored to specific purposes.”
Images
Featured image: The Hyundai Mobis 160-kilowatt (kW) Power Electric (PE) system for general-purpose electric vehicles. (Provided by Hyundai Motor Group)