The pastMay 26The University Master’s Degree in Electronic Systems Engineering (MUISE) hosted a seminar given by the companyMAHLEan international benchmark in technological solutions for the automotive sector. The session provided students with a complete overview of the electric vehicle ecosystem, combining theoretical foundations, industry trends and real applications.
The seminar began with aMAHLE corporate presentationThe main lines of business of the company and its strategic role in the transformation towards the electrification of transportation were presented.
This was followed by a discussion of thearchitecture of electric vehiclesThe interrelation between the different power electronic subsystems was highlighted. In this context, the key aspects of theenergy managementespecially in the area ofbatteriesThe efficiency, safety and energy density of these vehicles are decisive for the overall performance of the vehicle.
One of the most technical blocks focused on the presentation of products developed by MAHLE, among which the following stand out:
- OBCs (On-Board Chargers)
- DC-DC Converters
- Traction Inverters (Traction Inverters)
These systems form the core of the power electronics in the electric vehicle, enabling both efficient energy conversion and propulsion control.
In addition, the development model was introducedAutomotive V-modelwidely used in industry to ensure the traceability and validation of complex systems, along with an overview of theautomotive electronics and their requirements in terms of reliability and standards.
Technological innovation: the role of GaN
One of the aspects that aroused the most interest among the attendees was the presentation of new technologies based ongallium nitride (GaN) semiconductorsin particular the solutionGaN BDSwhich integrates two transistors in the same package.
During the MAHLE seminar we were shown a new GaN BDS technology, which incorporates two gallium nitride transistors in the same package, allowing us to improve the topologies used for inverters, introducing us to new industry trends.
This type of progress highlights the transition towards more efficient, compact and high-frequency devices, which are key elements in the evolution of power electronics.
Student reflection
The seminar not only provided technical content, but also a direct connection with professional practice. The following are some of the reflections of the participating students:
Thanks to these seminars we can learn first hand the design methodology for converters and power electronic systems, which helps us to understand the reasons for the selection of components and topologies to be used. I would highlight as a challenge the increase in efficiency together with the reduction of weight and volume of the devices, which leads to an increase in the switching frequency, resulting in higher losses and EMI radiation.
The seminar has been funded by the SIRVE project of the UPV.
