V2X Charge Hub
A compact, high-efficiency on-board charger for low losses and faster charging with bidirectional capabilities for V2X connectivity
This bidirectional on-board electric vehicle charger allows vehicles to both charge from the grid and to feed energy stored in vehicle batteries back into the grid.
Based on almost a decade of research, the charger is built on innovative wide-bandgap semiconductor materials (GaN, SiC) and advanced algorithms. Its novel architecture reduces the number of passive components, and an advanced manufacturing technique called Powder Injection Molding further reduces the overall size of the charger.
What it can do
V2G (vehicle-to-grid) connectivity is one of the main challenges not only around electric vehicles, but around intermittent renewable energy production, as well. New power converter concepts are needed to respond to the challenges of these markets. This automotive-grade charger was developed with and successfully transferred to carmaker Renault; it should reach the market within the next five years. The charger could also respond to broader V2X connectivity needs:
- Solar panels could be connected to vehicle batteries, promoting the adoption of intermittent renewable energy and reducing overall electricity-related GHG emissions.
- Vehicle batteries could be used as V2L (vehicle-to-load) emergency generators (in island mode with voltage regulation).
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What makes it unique
The electronic power converter architecture developed for this demonstrator is integrated directly into the vehicle. State-of-the-art chargers generally rely on filters for power-factor correction (PFC). Here, PFC has been virtualized using CEA-Leti algorithms and control law optimizations. The resulting single-stage converter is both compact and highly efficient.
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What’s next
Additional research at CEA-Leti will pave the way toward higher conversion frequencies and efficiencies, and CEA-Liten’s research on insulators and transformers could lead to further cost reductions.