IIT-Guwahati innovates tech to standardize EV for Indian drive cycles
Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati has announced that its researchers have developed a unique method of rating motors and batteries of EVs (electric vehicles) based on Indian drive cycles
To the unaware, a drive cycle is usually represented by a series of data points that plots vehicle speed against time. They allow assessment of the performance of vehicles considering factors like fuel consumption and pollutant emissions.
Officials involved in developing this reveal that electric vehicles currently available in India don't factor in different climatic conditions in India. Even the drive cycles aren't focused on rural and urban areas.
Researchers from the Electric Mobility Laboratory at IIT Guwahati looked at Indian climatic conditions prevailing in both rural and urban areas. They created a method that shows the best drivetrain to manufacture.
Prof. T. G. Sitharam, Director, IIT Guwahati stated "The development in the field of next-generation energy-efficient EV technology is one of the most important breakthroughs required for the sustainable development of the country and to reduce carbon footprint. IIT Guwahati is earnestly working in this direction. This development will augment this process and maximize the outcomes."
Praveen Kumar, Professor, Department of Electronics and Electrical Engineering, IIT Guwahati explains, "An electronic drivetrain (group of components that deliver power to the drive wheels) developed in a humid region does not work the same in a dry and colder environment. Therefore, the Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM) right now are considering creating standard drive-cycles for Indian conditions."
He stated that as of now no OEM has utilized this technology, however, they want to and are requesting drive-cycle data of Indian vehicles. Researchers aim to reduce emissions as well as fuel consumption with this technology.
Kumar added, "Our goal is to prepare a document that can enable the new entrants into the EV market and help in leveling the playing field. The other primary benefit of this entire exercise is to prepare the next generation of technocrats that are ready for an excellent career in EV technology anywhere in the world."
