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How DC-DC converters helped to improve an EV racing car’s performance




I have worked on many articles for Vicor about the innovative ways in which their customers are using their modular power solutions. One interesting case study looked at how these solutions boosted a racing electric vehicle's (EV's) performance.


EVs typically have one battery delivering 400V+ for traction, and another at a lower 12/24/48V voltage for on board electronics – and racing EVs are no exception. While essential, these batteries’ bulk and weight can negatively impact the racing EV’s performance.


However, Dynamis PRC, the Formula Student team of Politecnico di Milano, found an innovative way of mitigating this problem. When changing from a combustion engine to electric power, they implemented a weight reduction exercise. As part of this they significantly reduced the load on the 12V LiFePO4 battery – and therefore its size and weight - by using two Vicor DC-DC converters to extract 12V at 50A from the traction battery.


The converters they chose were Vicor DCM4623 modules, which have proven reliability, can operate in arrays, and can accept an input voltage that varies from 550V down to 330V as the battery discharges during a race.


  • The full article is on the Charig Associates website, under Articles tab.

  • For further information, go to the Vicor web site and search 'Dynamis'.

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