Dr. N.G.P.

Institute of Technology, Coimbatore – 641048

(An Autonomous Institution)
Approved by AICTE, New Delhi & Affiliated to Anna University, Chennai
Recognized by UGC & Accredited by NAAC with A+ Grade and
NBA (BME, CSE, ECE, EEE and Mechanical)

AU3791- Electric and Hybrid Vehicle

Two Marks With Answer
Semester & Branch: 7 & EEE
th

Batch: (202012025)
QUESTIONS BANK

Unit I: Design Considerations for Electric Vehicles

1. What are the key design requirements for an electric vehicle?

Key design requirements include range, maximum velocity, acceleration, power

requirement, mass of the vehicle, and transmission efficiency.

2. Compare the environmental impact of electric vehicles with conventional petrol vehicles.

Electric vehicles have a lower environmental impact due to zero tailpipe emissions and
the potential to use renewable energy sources, unlike petrol vehicles that emit CO2 and
other pollutants.

3. What are the primary types of resistance faced by electric vehicles?

The primary types of resistance include aerodynamic drag, rolling resistance, and
gradient resistance.

4. How does vehicle mass affect the energy efficiency of electric vehicles?

A higher vehicle mass increases energy consumption due to greater inertia and rolling
resistance, reducing energy efficiency.

5. What role does the chassis design play in electric vehicle performance?

The chassis design affects vehicle stability, safety, weight distribution, and overall
structural integrity, influencing performance and handling.

6. What are the advantages of using electric vehicles over hybrid vehicles?
 Dr. N.G.P. Institute of Technology, Coimbatore – 641048
(An Autonomous Institution)
Approved by AICTE, New Delhi & Affiliated to Anna University, Chennai
Recognized by UGC & Accredited by NAAC with A+ Grade and
NBA (BME, CSE, ECE, EEE and Mechanical)

Electric vehicles offer zero tailpipe emissions, lower operating costs, and simpler
maintenance compared to hybrid vehicles, which still rely on internal combustion
engines.

7. Describe the concept of range in electric vehicles.

Range refers to the maximum distance an electric vehicle can travel on a single charge,
influenced by battery capacity, driving conditions, and vehicle efficiency.

8. What is the importance of transmission efficiency in electric vehicles?

High transmission efficiency reduces energy losses, ensuring more power reaches the
wheels and improving overall vehicle performance.

9. How does aerodynamics influence the design of electric vehicles?

Aerodynamics affects the vehicle's drag coefficient, impacting energy consumption and
range. A streamlined design reduces drag and enhances efficiency.

10. What are the limitations of electric vehicles compared to traditional vehicles?

Limitations include limited range, longer refueling times, higher initial costs, and limited
charging infrastructure.

11. Why is it essential to consider acceleration in the design of electric vehicles?

Acceleration affects the vehicle's performance, safety, and driving experience. It

determines how quickly the vehicle can reach desired speeds.

12. Explain the role of regenerative braking in electric vehicles.

Regenerative braking recovers kinetic energy during braking and converts it into
electrical energy, recharging the battery and improving efficiency.

13. What is the significance of body design in electric vehicles?

Body design impacts aerodynamics, weight distribution, aesthetics, and safety,

influencing the vehicle's overall performance and efficiency.
 Dr. N.G.P. Institute of Technology, Coimbatore – 641048
(An Autonomous Institution)
Approved by AICTE, New Delhi & Affiliated to Anna University, Chennai
Recognized by UGC & Accredited by NAAC with A+ Grade and
NBA (BME, CSE, ECE, EEE and Mechanical)

14. How does the energy density of batteries affect the design of electric vehicles?

Higher energy density allows for smaller, lighter batteries with the same capacity,
improving vehicle range and performance.

15. What are the typical charging options available for electric vehicles?

Charging options include standard AC charging, fast DC charging, and wireless charging,
each with different charging speeds and infrastructure requirements.

Unit II: Energy Sources

1. What are the main types of batteries used in electric vehicles?

The main types include Lead Acid, Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH), Lithium-ion, Sodium-
based, and Metal Air batteries.

2. Describe the characteristics of a Lithium-ion battery.

Lithium-ion batteries have high energy density, low self-discharge rate, long cycle life,
and are lightweight, making them suitable for electric vehicles.

3. What is the purpose of a Battery Management System (BMS)?

A BMS monitors and controls the charging and discharging of the battery, ensuring safe
operation, balancing cells, and extending battery life.

4. How does a fuel cell generate electricity in electric vehicles?

A fuel cell generates electricity through an electrochemical reaction between hydrogen

and oxygen, producing water and heat as by-products.

5. What is quick charging, and why is it important for electric vehicles?

Quick charging significantly reduces the time needed to recharge the battery, making
electric vehicles more convenient for long-distance travel and daily use.

6. Explain the concept of battery modeling in electric vehicles.

 Dr. N.G.P. Institute of Technology, Coimbatore – 641048
(An Autonomous Institution)
Approved by AICTE, New Delhi & Affiliated to Anna University, Chennai
Recognized by UGC & Accredited by NAAC with A+ Grade and
NBA (BME, CSE, ECE, EEE and Mechanical)

Battery modeling involves creating equivalent electrical circuits to simulate the behavior
of batteries, aiding in the design and management of battery systems.

7. What are the advantages of using ultra capacitors in electric vehicles?

Ultra capacitors provide rapid charging and discharging, high power density, long cycle
life, and can handle high currents, making them ideal for energy storage and power
stabilization.

8. Compare the energy density of different types of batteries used in electric vehicles.

Lithium-ion batteries have the highest energy density, followed by Nickel Metal Hydride,
Lead Acid, and other types, impacting the range and weight of the vehicle.

9. What are the half reactions involved in a hydrogen fuel cell?

10.
How does temperature affect battery performance in electric vehicles?

Extreme temperatures can reduce battery efficiency, capacity, and lifespan, and can
increase the risk of thermal runaway in some battery types.

11. What are the main components of a fuel cell system?

The main components include the fuel cell stack, hydrogen storage tank, air compressor,
and cooling system.

12. What is the significance of battery equivalent circuits?

Battery equivalent circuits help simulate battery behavior, aiding in the design of control
systems and improving the accuracy of performance predictions.

13. Describe the role of electrolytes in batteries.

Electrolytes facilitate the flow of ions between the anode and cathode, enabling the
electrochemical reactions that produce electrical energy.

14. What are the challenges associated with battery recycling in electric vehicles?
 Dr. N.G.P. Institute of Technology, Coimbatore – 641048
(An Autonomous Institution)
Approved by AICTE, New Delhi & Affiliated to Anna University, Chennai
Recognized by UGC & Accredited by NAAC with A+ Grade and
NBA (BME, CSE, ECE, EEE and Mechanical)

Challenges include the safe disposal of hazardous materials, efficient recovery of

valuable metals, and the development of cost-effective recycling processes.

15. How do metal-air batteries differ from other types of batteries?

Metal-air batteries use oxygen from the air as a reactant, offering high energy density and
lightweight design but are challenging to recharge and maintain.

Unit III: Motors and Drives

1. What are the main types of electric motors used in electric vehicles?

The main types include DC motors, AC motors, Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motors
(PMSM), Brushless DC motors (BLDC), and Switched Reluctance Motors (SRM).

2. How does a Brushless DC motor (BLDC) differ from a conventional DC motor?

A BLDC motor uses electronic commutation instead of mechanical brushes, offering

higher efficiency, reliability, and lower maintenance.

3. What is the working principle of a Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor (PMSM)?

A PMSM operates using permanent magnets on the rotor and alternating current in the
stator, creating a rotating magnetic field that drives the rotor.

4. What are the advantages of using Switched Reluctance Motors (SRM) in electric
vehicles?

SRMs are robust, have simple construction, are cost-effective, and offer high efficiency
and reliability, with the capability for high-speed operation.

5. Explain the significance of torque control in electric vehicle motors.

Torque control regulates the motor's output torque, enabling smooth acceleration, precise
speed control, and efficient power use, enhancing driving experience and safety.

6. What are the primary losses in electric motors?

 Dr. N.G.P. Institute of Technology, Coimbatore – 641048
(An Autonomous Institution)
Approved by AICTE, New Delhi & Affiliated to Anna University, Chennai
Recognized by UGC & Accredited by NAAC with A+ Grade and
NBA (BME, CSE, ECE, EEE and Mechanical)

Primary losses include copper losses (I^2R losses in windings), iron losses (hysteresis
and eddy current losses in the core), and mechanical losses (friction and windage).

7. How does the efficiency of electric motors impact electric vehicle performance?

Higher motor efficiency reduces energy consumption, increases range, and lowers
operational costs, making the vehicle more economical and environmentally friendly.

8. What is field weakening in electric motors, and why is it used?

Field weakening reduces the magnetic field strength in the motor at high speeds, allowing
the motor to operate beyond its base speed, extending the speed range.

9. Describe the construction of a typical AC induction motor used in electric vehicles.

An AC induction motor has a stator with windings connected to an AC supply and a rotor
that can be squirrel cage or wound, with the rotor induced by the stator's magnetic field.

10. What role does the inverter play in controlling electric motors in vehicles?

The inverter converts DC from the battery to AC, varying frequency and amplitude to
control the motor's speed and torque, providing precise control over the vehicle's
performance.

11. How does regenerative braking work with electric motors?

Regenerative braking uses the motor as a generator during braking, converting kinetic
energy into electrical energy, which is stored in the battery, improving efficiency.

12. What is the significance of the rotor position sensor in BLDC motors?

The rotor position sensor provides feedback on the rotor's position, allowing for accurate
electronic commutation and efficient motor operation.

13. What are the typical applications of DC motors in electric vehicles?

DC motors are used in applications requiring precise control, such as power steering,
electric windows, and auxiliary systems, due to their simplicity and ease of control.
 Dr. N.G.P. Institute of Technology, Coimbatore – 641048
(An Autonomous Institution)
Approved by AICTE, New Delhi & Affiliated to Anna University, Chennai
Recognized by UGC & Accredited by NAAC with A+ Grade and
NBA (BME, CSE, ECE, EEE and Mechanical)

14. Explain the concept of four-quadrant operation in motor drives.

Four-quadrant operation allows the motor to operate in all four quadrants of the torque-
speed plane, enabling forward and reverse motoring and braking, providing full control
over the vehicle's motion.

15. What is the purpose of a motor controller in an electric vehicle?

The motor controller regulates the power flow to the motor, controlling speed, torque,
and direction, and providing protection against faults, ensuring safe and efficient
operation.

Unit IV: Power Converters and Controllers

1. What are the main types of power converters used in electric vehicles?

The main types include rectifiers, inverters, DC-DC converters, and AC-DC converters,
each serving different functions in the powertrain.

2. What is the function of an inverter in electric vehicles?

An inverter converts DC power from the battery into AC power to drive the electric
motor, allowing for variable speed and torque control.

3. Describe the working principle of a MOSFET as a switching element.

A MOSFET operates as a voltage-controlled switch, with the gate voltage controlling the
flow of current between the drain and source, used for fast switching and efficient power
conversion.

4. What is the role of a DC-DC converter in electric vehicles?

A DC-DC converter steps up or steps down the DC voltage, matching the voltage levels
required by various components, such as auxiliary systems and the main powertrain.

5. How does a rectifier function in the power electronics of an electric vehicle?

A rectifier converts AC power to DC power, used in charging systems to convert grid

power to charge the vehicle's battery.
 Dr. N.G.P. Institute of Technology, Coimbatore – 641048
(An Autonomous Institution)
Approved by AICTE, New Delhi & Affiliated to Anna University, Chennai
Recognized by UGC & Accredited by NAAC with A+ Grade and
NBA (BME, CSE, ECE, EEE and Mechanical)

6. What are the advantages of using IGBTs in power electronics?

IGBTs offer high efficiency, high current handling capability, and fast switching, making
them suitable for high-power applications like motor drives and converters.

7. Explain the concept of four-quadrant operation in motor drives.

Four-quadrant operation allows the motor to operate in both directions and modes—
motoring and braking—enabling precise control over vehicle acceleration and
deceleration.

8. What are the operating modes of power converters in electric vehicles?

Operating modes include buck (step-down), boost (step-up), buck-boost, and

bidirectional modes, each providing different voltage and current transformations.

9. Describe the working of a TRIAC as a switching device.

A TRIAC can conduct in both directions when triggered, used for controlling AC power,
allowing phase angle control and dimming applications.

10. What is the importance of thermal management in power electronics?

Effective thermal management prevents overheating of components, ensuring reliability,

longevity, and safe operation of power electronic systems.

11. How do power converters improve the efficiency of electric vehicles?

Power converters efficiently manage the flow of electrical energy, minimizing losses and
ensuring optimal power delivery to the motor and other systems.

12. What is the function of a solid-state relay in electric vehicles?

A solid-state relay uses semiconductor devices to switch electrical circuits, providing fast
and reliable switching without mechanical wear, suitable for controlling high-power
loads.

13. What are the characteristics of SCRs in power electronics?

 Dr. N.G.P. Institute of Technology, Coimbatore – 641048
(An Autonomous Institution)
Approved by AICTE, New Delhi & Affiliated to Anna University, Chennai
Recognized by UGC & Accredited by NAAC with A+ Grade and
NBA (BME, CSE, ECE, EEE and Mechanical)

SCRs (Silicon Controlled Rectifiers) are unidirectional devices used for rectification and
control applications, known for their high power-handling capability and latching
behavior.

14. Why is harmonic distortion a concern in power converters?

Harmonic distortion can cause additional losses, heating, and interference in electrical
systems, reducing efficiency and potentially damaging components.

15. What is the purpose of a DC link in power electronic systems? The DC link acts as an
intermediate energy storage stage, stabilizing voltage levels and providing a buffer
between power converters, improving overall system performance.

Unit V: Hybrid and Electric Vehicles

1. What are the main components of a hybrid vehicle?

Main components include an internal combustion engine, electric motor, battery pack,
power split device, and control systems.

2. What is the difference between series and parallel hybrid configurations?

In a series hybrid, the engine generates electricity for the electric motor, while in a
parallel hybrid, both the engine and motor can directly drive the wheels.

3. Describe the working principle of an electric vehicle.

An electric vehicle uses an electric motor powered by a battery pack, converting

electrical energy into mechanical energy to drive the wheels, with regenerative braking
for energy recovery.

4. What are the advantages of hybrid vehicles over conventional vehicles?

Hybrid vehicles offer improved fuel efficiency, reduced emissions, and better
performance by combining the benefits of an internal combustion engine and an electric
motor.

5. Explain the concept of power split devices in hybrid vehicles.

 Dr. N.G.P. Institute of Technology, Coimbatore – 641048
(An Autonomous Institution)
Approved by AICTE, New Delhi & Affiliated to Anna University, Chennai
Recognized by UGC & Accredited by NAAC with A+ Grade and
NBA (BME, CSE, ECE, EEE and Mechanical)

Power split devices, like planetary gear sets, manage power flow between the engine,
motor, and wheels, enabling different operating modes and optimizing efficiency.

6. What are the different operating modes of a hybrid vehicle?

Operating modes include electric-only mode, engine-only mode, hybrid mode,

regenerative braking, and battery charging mode, each offering different benefits.

7. How do control strategies in hybrid vehicles enhance efficiency?

Control strategies optimize the use of the engine and electric motor, manage energy flow,
and adjust to driving conditions, maximizing fuel efficiency and reducing emissions.

8. What is the economic advantage of using hybrid vehicles?

Hybrid vehicles offer lower fuel costs, reduced emissions-related taxes, potential
incentives, and lower total cost of ownership due to improved fuel efficiency.

9. Describe a case study that demonstrates the specifications of a hybrid vehicle.

A case study may include a detailed analysis of a specific hybrid model, covering aspects
like powertrain architecture, battery capacity, fuel economy, emissions, and performance
metrics.

10. How does the regenerative braking system work in hybrid vehicles?

Regenerative braking converts kinetic energy during braking into electrical energy, which
is stored in the battery, reducing energy consumption and improving efficiency.

11. What are the main challenges in designing hybrid vehicles?

Challenges include optimizing the powertrain for efficiency and performance, managing
the weight and size of the battery pack, ensuring reliability, and integrating complex
control systems.

12. How does the battery size impact the performance of a hybrid vehicle?

Battery size affects the electric-only range, power output, and overall vehicle efficiency.
A larger battery can provide more electric range but may increase weight and cost.
 Dr. N.G.P. Institute of Technology, Coimbatore – 641048
(An Autonomous Institution)
Approved by AICTE, New Delhi & Affiliated to Anna University, Chennai
Recognized by UGC & Accredited by NAAC with A+ Grade and
NBA (BME, CSE, ECE, EEE and Mechanical)

13. What are the environmental benefits of using electric vehicles?

Electric vehicles produce zero tailpipe emissions, reduce dependence on fossil fuels, and
have the potential to be powered by renewable energy sources, minimizing environmental
impact.

14. Explain the concept of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs).

PHEVs have a larger battery pack than standard hybrids, allowing them to be charged
from an external power source and operate in electric-only mode for a significant
distance.

15. What factors influence the choice of hybrid vehicle architecture?

Factors include desired fuel efficiency, cost, complexity, driving range, power
requirements, and intended use (e.g., city driving vs. long-distance travel).

Subject Handing Faculty Course Coordinator HoD

(Dr K Ramash Kumar) (Dr K Ramash Kumar) ( Dr C. Kathirvel)