Engineering Fundamentals of Electric Vehicles

The automotive industry is undergoing a massive shift toward electric mobility, driven by the need for sustainable, energy-efficient transportation. Understanding the engineering principles behind electric vehicles is essential for anyone looking to enter or understand this rapidly growing field. This text-based course provides a comprehensive introduction to the foundational science and engineering of electric vehicles. You will transition from understanding basic electrical concepts to analyzing modern powertrain architectures, battery management systems, and charging technologies. What you'll learn: Understand the core differences between internal combustion engines and electric powertrains; Analyze the flow of energy from battery cells to the electric motor; Explore modern battery chemistries, thermal management systems, and safety protocols; Examine regenerative braking systems and their role in maximizing vehicle efficiency; Learn about current charging infrastructure standards, including AC and DC fast-charging systems; Evaluate the environmental impact and lifecycle efficiency of electric transport. The course begins with essential electrical and mechanical definitions before guiding you through vehicle architecture, battery technology, and modern powertrain design. Through clear, written explanations and conceptual exercises, you will build a solid technical foundation in electric vehicle engineering. This course is designed for beginners, students, and hobbyists with no prior background in automotive engineering who want to understand how electric cars work. Start reading today to build your foundational knowledge of electric vehicle technology.