The Absopulse Electronics HVI 300-600/14 DC/DC converter/charger was selected by the Racing Green Endurance team of Imperial College London for use on-board their SRZero, a proof-of-concept all-electric supercar.
The role of HVI 300-600/14 in the SRZero, is effectively the same as an alternator in an internal combustion car, enabling the vehicle’s 600V lithium iron phosphate battery pack to float charge a 12V battery, which in turn powers the car’s low voltage control system. The DC/DC unit delivers 300W continuous output power, ensuring reliable operation of all critical components that run off the 12V system
The HVI 300-600/14 is equipped with non-destructive reverse polarity protection on the input, surge protection and high-grade input/output filtering; 3kVdc input to output isolation ensures that the control system is protected from high voltages from the 56kW battery pack. The unit is filtered to meet EN55022 Class A EMI conducted and radiated, an important consideration in electric vehicles where EMI can cause electrical systems to behave unreliably.
Cooling is combined: by conduction to a base plate, and by convection. This compact unit measures 132 x 64 x 300 mm (5.2″ x 2.5″ x 11.8″), and ruggedizing and conformal coating provide added immunity to shock, vibration and humidity, essential for rugged open-road conditions.
The HVI 300-600/14 is priced in the US$350 range at low quantities, depending on options required.
The RGE team is about to take the SRZero on 26,000km (16,000 mile) endurance trip from Prudhoe Bay, Alaska, to Tierra Del Fuego, Argentina, on the Pan American Highway, the longest highway in the world, to demonstrate the range and endurance of EV (electric vehicle) technology. For more information visit http://racinggreenendurance.com/.
