A new course in electric vehicle powertrain systems from Continuing Education promises to provide training in high-demand skills to the community. The course engages learners through case studies and examples from commercially available EVs, offering the opportunity to utilize software tools such as Microsoft Excel, Matlab/Simulink, and Ansys Motor-CAD to understand the design and operation of electric vehicle powertrain systems.

The course is divided into two parts. In the first, participants will grasp the fundamentals of vehicle architectures and dynamics, study different drive cycles, and learn to size a powertrain based on these parameters, ensuring optimal performance on the road. Moreover, participants will acquire knowledge in both asynchronous and synchronous machine fundamentals, which are essential for understanding and designing electric motors that are part of the powertrain system.

Part two of the course continues to delve into EV powertrain systems. Learners will gain an understanding of the power electronic architecture and control of state-of-the-art motor drives, as well as explore the design variations in commercially available EV motor drives. Other topics include the fundamentals of energy storage, management, charging, and finally, the testing and validation of the EV powertrain.

Lakshmi Varaha Iyer, a senior member of IEEE, serves as the course instructor. Currently, he holds the position of senior manager, advanced powertrain and chassis, with Magna International's corporate research and development division. Dr. Iyer is also an adjunct professor in the UWindsor Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering. His recognition of the growing demand for this course aligns with the expanding EV market.

“Electrification of automobiles is enabling engineers to improve and change existing designs of various subsystems and systems of vehicles for additional benefits,” says Dr. Iyer. “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.”

This course is ideal for professionals and students, offering a unique opportunity to gain a competitive advantage through enhanced knowledge in this rapidly growing field.

Visit the Continuing Education website for more 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.