Electric cars need to become both cheaper and more energy efficient. In a new laboratory in Skövde, researchers and companies collaborate to develop and test technology that makes battery production more sustainable and efficient, which in the long term can result in cheaper electric cars on the market.
Stefan Ericson, Senior Lecturer at the School of Engineering Science at the University of Skövde.
The laboratory, located at ASSAR Industrial Innovation Arena, is part of a research project in which the University of Skövde and several major industrial companies work together to improve the manufacturing of electric motors and electronics. The work includes key technological areas within electric drivetrains such as power electronics, laser welding and next-generation electric motors.
“We have created a flexible environment where research, education and industry can meet and test future solutions together,” says Stefan Ericson, Senior Lecturer at the School of Engineering Science at the University of Skövde.
Testing How Electric Vehicles Can Become More Efficient
The new ASSAR Power Electronics Labs is designed to test and monitor the electronics that control how electric vehicles are charged, powered and store energy. Researchers and engineers examine everything from efficiency to how well they handle heat and communication between different parts of the system.
“We have placed great emphasis on creating a laboratory that is safe, flexible and educational. This means that we can use it in teaching, but also in advanced research and development together with industry,” explains Stefan Ericson.
Industry’s Tools in the Hands of the Students
In the laboratory, researchers and engineers can develop and run automated tests. There is also a motor test bench and a soldering lab where students can work in practice.
“It is an environment that reflects industrial reality. Students and researchers get to work with the same types of systems and tools that are used in the development of electric vehicles and components,” says Stefan Ericson.
Collaboration That Strengthens Swedish Industry
Several major Volvo companies and Horse Powertrain Limited are participating in the work together with the University of Skövde.
“The aim is to develop methods and expertise that make Swedish vehicle manufacturing more competitive in the global transition to electric propulsion,” concludes Stefan Ericson.
About the Project
Project Name: “Next-generation laboratory environment within power electronics and new electric motor concepts”
Project Period: 2023–2026
Funder: Region Västra Götaland
Collaboration Partners: Volvo Group Trucks Operations, Horse Powertrain Limited, IDC West Sweden, Volvo Cars, Volvo Trucks, Volvo Penta
Purpose of the Project: to enable the development and use of advanced equipment for production processes at the ASSAR Industrial Innovation Arena in Skövde.
