Essential vehicle software and power electronics in battery and fuel cell electric vehicles

Graphic showing technical components of a semi

Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) and Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCVs) are vital to the transportation industry's move toward more sustainable operations. Both are low emission vehicles that run on electric power. Battery Electric Vehicles operate using energy stored in batteries, while Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles are powered by a fuel cell that creates electricity using hydrogen as a fuel, with water and heat as the only byproducts. Wider adoption of these vehicles and their low-emissions technology represent a significant path to decarbonizing commercial transportation.

Cutting-edge software and electronics play a crucial role in various aspects of operations, from managing power in the powertrain (comprising the electric motor, battery, and fuel cell) to controlling electronic components throughout the vehicle and human interface systems like throttle response and range estimates. This article gives an overview of how essential software, and electronics components work in BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle) and FCEV (Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles) technologies.

What Are the Software and Electronics Components in Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) And Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEVs)?

Powertrain:

BEVs and FCEVs share common powertrain components such as fuel cells, battery packs, inverters, and controls, but with some differences: in BEVs the internal combustion engine is replaced with batteries. FCEVs on the other hand, combine fuel cells with batteries. Vehicle software is important in both technologies and plays a role in managing power distribution and heat regulation. BEVs need advanced software to maintain battery performance and safety, managing temperature, charging, and discharging. While electronic components ensure precise power delivery for efficient performance. FCEVs too use similar software to optimize power distribution between the battery and the fuel cell. The software also helps in monitoring fuel consumption.

Chassis:

The chassis is made up of frame, wheels, brakes, and suspension. It is important for keeping the vehicle stable and easy to control. Electronic systems like Electronic Stability Control (ESC) help make it safer by applying brakes on certain wheels, which helps keep the vehicle steady and maintain direction when you need to make quick turns. Additionally, there are software-operated air suspension systems that change the height of the vehicle depending on speed and condition of the road. This helps to enhance aerodynamics and make it more comfortable to drive long distances.

Body:

The body includes the vehicle's structural and interior components. The body utilizes power electronics in the vehicle for features like automated door locks and advanced safety systems. Vehicle software and electronics use sensors and electronic control units (ECUs) to manage everything from window operations to driver-assistance systems, increasing both convenience and safety.

Electronics/Infotainment:

Electronics and software in vehicles can not only help control climate, lighting, and multimedia systems, but can also provide real-time vehicle data. Electronics also feed critical data to the onboard computers, ensuring systems like automatic headlight adjustment and rain-sensing wipers operate without a hitch.

Autonomous Driving or Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS):

The Autonomous Driving or Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) includes sensors, radars and controllers that provide critical driver assist and automation features. These features include controlling signals going to the steering, braking and powertrain controllers, using real time and high-powered control units running advanced software.

Connected Services:

Connected services are where vehicle software plays a significant role by extending the vehicle's functionality. BEVs often feature an app that allows users to remotely check the charge level, start the vehicle, or even pre-condition the cabin temperature. Navigation systems also use connectivity to provide live traffic updates, ensuring efficient route management.

By embedding intelligent software and electronics throughout the vehicle, BEVs and FCEVs can enhance user experience, and help meet environmental goals. As these technologies evolve, they will further lead the charge towards a cleaner, and more reliable transportation future.

Role Of Software and Electronics in Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) And Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEVs)

Battery Management:

Software's role in battery management is vital in maintaining the health and efficiency of BEVs and FCEVs. Vehicles can utilize advanced battery management systems that monitor each cell's temperature and voltage, balancing the charge across the battery pack to maximize life and range. Some vehicles’ systems can even learn from the driver's habits to heat or cool the battery to the optimal temperature for driving and charging.

Powertrain Control:

Electronics have transformed powertrain control, enhancing the driving experience by ensuring smooth power delivery. ECUs can precisely manage the electric motor's output, delivering instant torque while maintaining energy efficiency.

Telematics:

Telematics software is crucial for real-time vehicle monitoring and navigation. BEVs and FCEVs can offer remote battery status checks, route planning that considers charging station locations, and pre-heating or cooling the vehicle cabin while still connected to the grid, helping vehicles go as far as possible off one charge.

Artificial Intelligence (AI):

AI is increasingly being integrated into vehicle software capabilities. Manufacturers are employing AI to calculate the range of vehicles more accurately by considering factors like weather conditions, cargo weight, and driving habits. AI also helps predict maintenance needs by analyzing vehicle data and usage patterns, alerting drivers to potential issues before they arise, and proactively scheduling servicing.

Considerations For Manufacturers with Regards to Vehicle Software and Power Electronics

With evolving technology in battery electric and fuel cell electric vehicles, several considerations emerge:

  1. Complexity: The shift to advanced software and electronics in vehicles certainly reduces mechanical complexity but increases software complexity. This includes complexity in battery management in BEVs and managing high voltage power distribution throughout the vehicle.
  2. Managing Power and Updates: Manufacturers need to make sure that vehicle software and electronics can deliver power efficiently when needed and that software updates can be done easily, even remotely. Investing in advanced power management systems and establishing robust infrastructure for delivering timely software updates will be crucial to ensure optimal performance.
  3. Security: Keeping the vehicle’s systems safe from hackers and ensuring they work reliably, especially in FCEVs with high-voltage systems, is important.
  4. Supply Chain Resiliency:  The reliability of software and electronic subsystems is paramount. Manufacturers must ensure these components meet stringent standards and safety requirements.
  5. Lifecycle Support: It is essential for manufacturers to maintain software support throughout the vehicle's lifecycle, with a focus on simplicity and compatibility for easy support from numerous suppliers.

The integration of advanced software and electronics in BEVs and FCEVs is not just a trend but a critical evolution in commercial transportation technology. This development optimizes performance, improves safety, and helps make the transportation industries more sustainable. It also brings new challenges in terms of complexity, security, and supply chain management. As the industry navigates these challenges, however, the potential for innovation and growth in this sector is exciting, as it paves the way for a cleaner, more efficient future in transportation.

Cummins Inc. is at the forefront of innovative transportation and heavy-duty operations and Accelera™ by Cummins – the zero-emissions business segment of Cummins – is at the forefront of supplying and integrating zero-emissions technologies to decarbonize the world’s hardest working industries. For more information about BEV and FCEVs, visit accelerzero.com

Cummins Components Business Unit

Components Business Unit

Why you should become a Cummins Home and Small Business dealer

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For more than 100 years, Cummins Inc. has been dedicated to making people’s lives better by powering a more prosperous world. As a company, we seek to be customer-driven, innovative, responsible, and trustworthy so that we can truly make a difference now and in the future.

But exactly what does Cummins do? At a high level, we create power solutions. You’ll find Cummins products and solutions for on- and off-highway engines, turbochargers, electronics, fuel systems, generators and power systems, and more. We’re not in this on our own, though. With a broad network of Cummins-authorized dealers in the home and small business power solution space, we count on our independent dealers and their local relationships. If you’re interested in becoming a Cummins-authorized dealer, keep reading to find out the benefits and how to get started.

Does Cummins make Home Generators and Small Business generators?

Yes, Cummins offers generators that are sufficient for residential homes and small businesses, including:

  • 13-20 kW air cooled emergency standby generators
  • 25-150 kW liquid cooled emergency standby generators
  • 9,500-watt portable, dual fuel heavy duty generators
  • 2,500-4,500-watt portable, lightweight inverter generators
  • 300-1,000-watt portable lithium battery powered power stations

In the midst of severe weather, increased blackouts, and aging power grids, generators are becoming more and more important. Consider this: 83% of power outages were the result of weather-related incidents from 2000 to 2021.

When these outages occur during extreme temperatures, generators are critical to keeping homes and businesses comfortable, safe, and operational. Families won’t have to worry about losing their heat or everything inside their refrigerators. Businesses won’t have to worry about the potential financial impact that comes with an outage—which can be as much as $12,500 a day for a small business. 

All of these reasons are likely why search terms like “Cummins generator dealers near me” are so popular on Google and other search engines. Local people are consistently looking for the right generator solution. Cummins-authorized dealers can help ensure they have the power they need, no matter what.

What are the benefits of being a Cummins Generator Dealer for Home and Small Business?

Of course, if you’re thinking about becoming a Cummins-authorized dealer, the fact that there’s a market isn’t the only perk. Here are eight more reasons why you should become a Cummins-authorized Home and Small Business generator dealer.

  1. You’ll be backed by the Cummins brand, a name that’s synonymous with support, reliability, and sustainability. Cummins generators are quality, trustworthy equipment that you and your customers can count on.
  2. You will receive state-of-the-start training. Cummins provides courses and the certification path required to become a Cummins-authorized partner and product expert. Our technical training and certifications provide knowledge on Cummins home generator service like installation, maintenance, and repair.
  3. You can connect to a robust network of Cummins resources. Our dealers have access to a world-class set of tools, including training, a dedicated account executive, an online portal, sales and training certifications, and so much more.
  4. You’ll receive “preferred parts” pricing. By becoming an authorized dealer, you’ll get the best parts pricing around so you can maximize your profits. You can also pass these savings on to your customers to ensure your pricing is competitive.
  5. You can capitalize on marketing support. Cummins regularly invests in brand-building and lead generating campaigns to drive customers to our dealers. 
  6. You have access to warranty claim submission. Warranties don’t have to be a hassle for you or your customers. As an authorized-service dealer, you can submit warranty claims on behalf of your customer to improve customer satisfaction and loyalty. 
  7. You can join the ChannelOne Partner Rewards Program. This competitive rewards program helps you maximize your earning power.
  8. You can list your company on the Cummins Parts & Service Locator. The Cummins service locator makes it easy for local customers to connect with your business, and it increases your overall brand visibility.

How to become a Cummins Dealer: It’s easier than you think

Stop missing out on all of the local online traffic searching for “Cummins authorized dealer near me,” and bring great products to your community! It takes just four simple steps to get started.

  1. Complete the online “Become a Dealer” interest form. A regional Cummins Account Executive will contact you to start the discussion.
  2. Share additional information about your business, your experience, and why you’re interested in becoming a Cummins dealer.
  3. Fill out and return the necessary paperwork to be processed by the Cummins team.
  4. Complete your required product training and become a Cummins Home and Small Business Dealer.

At Cummins, our company is dedicated to providing great products and services to customers throughout the world. If you’re ready to join our world-class network, get started now.

Cummins Office Building

Cummins Inc.

Cummins, a global power technology leader, is a corporation of complementary business segments that design, manufacture, distribute and service a broad portfolio of power solutions. The company’s products range from internal combustion, electric and hybrid integrated power solutions and components including filtration, aftertreatment, turbochargers, fuel systems, controls systems, air handling systems, automated transmissions, electric power generation systems, microgrid controls, batteries, electrolyzers and fuel cell products.

How do I calculate what size generator I need?

Customers talking to Cummins dealer

There are several great reasons why you might be considering a standby generator for your home or small business. In the event of a power outage (caused by severe weather, for example), having a standby generator helps ensure ongoing safety and comfort. And in the case of a business, the ability to reduce downtime and maintain operations is a significant advantage.

Standby generators—also known as permanent or whole-house generators—offer reliable and efficient backup power solutions for a wide range of applications. If you’re currently exploring your options, we imagine you have a few concerns. You’re probably looking for a generator that’s sold and serviced by a reputable company, and want to determine the right generator capacity for your needs.

In this article, we’re going to help you answer a key question: “What size generator do I need to run my house or small business in the event of a power outage?” Keep reading for an overview of how to find the perfect Cummins Inc. standby generator for your needs.

What is the rule for generator sizing?

When it comes to understanding generator sizing, one important rule to keep in mind is that the generator needs to be able to power everything requiring electricity, but it also needs to have additional capacity to account for various appliances’ starting wattage. Otherwise, you might find yourself in a situation where your generator simply won’t cut it, potentially leaving your home or small business without the power it needs.

Next, we’ll cover a basic framework for calculating your power needs.

How to Calculate Standby Generator Size

Here’s a simple, three-step process for assessing your needs and priorities, understanding generator sizes, and finding what size generator is going to work best. 

Let’s take a look at what this process looks like.

Step 1: Understanding Generator Sizes

Here’s a basic formula for how to calculate standby generator size:

  1. First, create a list of everything in your home or small business that would need to be powered by the generator in case of an emergency. This should include anything that requires electricity and isn’t something you would want to go without should you lose power. It’s important to not only consider running wattage, but starting wattage as well—since most appliances will require a few seconds’ worth of extra wattage to get started. There are several online sources for determining appliances’ wattage requirements.
  2. Add together each item’s running watts. When in doubt, err on the side of overestimating wattage requirements since it’s much better to have a little more power available than is needed as opposed to having to adapt to a generator that lacks sufficient power.
  3. Then, to roughly account for starting wattage, add the single-highest starting watts figure to the total.
  4. To ensure a margin of safety—and to account for potential future needs—you should multiply that figure by at least 1.25. The resulting number is the minimum generator capacity you should consider.

You can also use our home generator sizing calculator to estimate your power needs.

Step 2: Assessing Your Needs

It’s important to understand your priorities. While getting the right size and type of generator that fits your budget are important, it’s also important to consider how you intend to use the generator.

  • Will it need to be capable of maintaining enough power for your home or small business in case of an emergency?
  • Do you envision having a permanently-installed generator, or is portability important?

How you answer these questions should help provide context for the next step: exploring generator sizing and zeroing in on the perfect product for your needs.

Step 3: Finding the Right Generator

In addition to the generator size calculator, our online buyer’s guide to home generators is a great starting point for exploring your options. Cummins offers three main types of standby generators suited for a home or small business:

  • Permanently-installed 13-20 kW air-cooled home standby generators that can be powered up when needed. 
  • Permanently-installed 25-150 kW liquid-cooled home standby generators that can be powered up when needed. 
  • Heavy-duty, gasoline- or propane-powered 9,500-watt dual fuel portable generators that can provide backup power for a home or small business. 

Cummins: Reliable and Affordable Standby Power Solutions

At Cummins, we build versatile, high-quality standby generators for homes and small businesses. Don’t let their quietness fool you—they’re powerful and reliable. 

When you’re ready to explore your options, you can reach out to request an on-site assessment. One of our authorized dealers will help you assess your needs, evaluate different generator types and capacities, and understand how much a generator might cost to have installed.

Cummins Office Building

Cummins Inc.

Cummins, a global power technology leader, is a corporation of complementary business segments that design, manufacture, distribute and service a broad portfolio of power solutions. The company’s products range from internal combustion, electric and hybrid integrated power solutions and components including filtration, aftertreatment, turbochargers, fuel systems, controls systems, air handling systems, automated transmissions, electric power generation systems, microgrid controls, batteries, electrolyzers and fuel cell products.

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