The automotive thermal management industry is evolving rapidly, driven by technological advancements and the increasing complexity of electric vehicles (EVs). Over the past 2-3 years, the industry has widely recognised the rapid advance of e-mobility. However, experts have now revised their projections, indicating that the adoption of fully electric vehicles will progress more slowly than initially anticipated. Recently, the US automotive industry has seen a significant shift from producing fully electric vehicles to focusing on HEVs and PHEVs. This change reflects an understanding that customers are cost-conscious and hesitant to invest heavily in fully electric vehicles.
As we move into 2024, several key areas have emerged as critical learning priorities for professionals in this field. In March 2024, Automotive IQ conducted a survey to OEMs and Tier-1s in the Thermal Management space to get a better scope of the industry’s top challenges and priorities right now. Here are the top five learning priorities that will shape the future of automotive thermal management.
1. AI for Automotive Thermal Management
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become a huge area of focus across multiple industries and sectors, globally, but how is it affecting the thermal management landscape? By leveraging AI algorithms, engineers can analyse complex thermal characteristics, such as heat dissipation, component placement, cooling methods, and airflow dynamics, to predict temperature profiles and optimise cooling strategies. This not only enhances the reliability and performance of various systems but also allows for higher power densities and faster battery charging by mitigating thermal limitations with intelligent control.
2. Fast Charging Thermal Management
With the rise of extreme fast charging technologies, managing the temperature of power cables, connectors, and battery packs has become a significant challenge. The use of data-driven thermal management strategies, coupled with AI and machine learning, ensures efficient and sustainable fast-charging practices. These strategies are essential for optimising the balance between rapid charging and battery longevity, preventing potential damage, and enhancing overall vehicle performance.
3. New Refrigerants
The development and adoption of new refrigerants are critical for effective thermal management in EVs. Innovative refrigerants, such as hydrofluoroolefin dielectric fluids, offer improved heat transfer and reduced environmental impact. These new refrigerants are particularly effective in stabilising the temperatures of critical EV powertrain components, such as batteries, motors, and power electronics, thereby enhancing overall system efficiency and performance.
At the Thermal Management for EV/HEV 2024 conference, held in Munich, March 2024, Rebecca Bellchambers, Thermal Research Analyst at S&P Global Mobility, presented Comparison of Different Types and Uses of New Refrigerants to the audience. Here’s a video summary of her presentation, which gives an overview of the current status of refrigerants:
4. Control Strategies
Effective control strategies are vital for optimising thermal management systems. Modern approaches focus on balancing internal combustion engine (ICE) and electric modes of operation while considering battery conditions. Advanced control strategies, supported by simulation and data analytics, can significantly reduce battery degradation and extend battery life, making them a priority for reducing the total cost of ownership and enhancing vehicle performance.
5. Fuel Cell Thermal Management
As fuel cell technology gains traction in the automotive industry, understanding its thermal management is crucial. Fuel cells operate within a narrow temperature range, and maintaining optimal temperatures is essential for their efficiency and longevity. Innovative thermal management solutions are required to ensure that fuel cells perform effectively, especially under varying environmental conditions and load demands.
By focusing on these five learning priorities, professionals in the automotive thermal management industry can stay ahead of the curve, driving innovation and ensuring the efficient and sustainable performance of next-generation vehicles.
For a more detailed exploration of these topics, refer to the comprehensive insights provided in Automotive IQ’s State of the Market 2024: Automotive Thermal Management report.
Co-located with Advanced E-Motor Technologies USA 2024 conference
September 9 – 11, 2024 | The Henry Hotel, Dearborn Michigan, USA