WINDSOR, Ont. — The University of Windsor’s Continuing Education is launching a new online course aimed at empowering professionals to drive towards success in the auto industry.
The Electric Vehicle Powertrain Systems course is structured to engage learners through real-world case studies and examples drawn from commercially available electric vehicles (EVs).
Participants will have the unique opportunity to work with industry-standard software tools like Microsoft Excel, Matlab/Simulink, and Ansys Motor-CAD to gain in-depth insights into the design and operation of electric vehicle powertrain systems.
"Electrification of automobiles is enabling engineers to improve and change existing designs of various subsystems and systems of vehicles for additional benefits," says Lakshmi Varaha Iyer, course instructor and senior member of IEEE and Senior Manager of Advanced Powertrain and Chassis at Magna International's Corporate Research and Development Division.
"Students in this course will be able to enhance their knowledge on electric vehicles, apply the knowledge to design various traditional subsystems and parts of the vehicle differently, and electrify different components in the vehicle."
The course is divided into two comprehensive parts with the first part running from Jan. 11, 2024 to May 9.
Dr. Iyer, also an adjunct professor in the UWindsor Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, said the initial component focuses on building a strong foundation in vehicle architectures, dynamics, drive cycles, and powertrain sizing. He said students will gain expertise in both asynchronous and synchronous machine fundamentals, crucial for understanding and designing electric motors within the powertrain system.
The second part, starting on Apr. 4, 2024 and concluding on May 9, delves deeper into EV powertrain systems. Participants will explore advanced topics such as power electronic architecture, state-of-the-art motor drives control, and the design variations in commercially available EV motor drives. Additionally, the course covers essentials like energy storage, management, charging systems, and the testing and validation of the EV powertrain.
Jennie Atkins, executive director of University of Windsor Continuing Education, said Iyer brings a wealth of industry expertise to the course and that his recognition of the growing demand for training in electric vehicle powertrains aligns perfectly with the expanding EV market.
“As we strive to deliver the most current training on emerging technologies, we are proud to offer this course on electric vehicle powertrains,” Atkins said.
“This program provides a unique opportunity for professionals and students to gain industry-leading insights into vehicle electrification, directly from an industry expert and leader.”
Visit the Continuing Education website to register for an upcoming information session and for information on course fees and up-to-date schedules.
UWindsor alumni, staff, students, and Hire UWindsor Partners are eligible for a discount. Email continue@uwindsor.ca for details.