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Innovative high-voltage technology for more powerful and efficient electric vehicles: The European research project ENLIGHTEN, led by the AIT Austrian Institute of Technology, is developing a new generation of electric drives with an operating voltage of 1,200 volts. The aim is to realise more powerful, more efficient and more sustainable drive systems that also remain backwards-compatible with existing charging infrastructures of 500 and 1,000 volts.
A higher voltage level not only means increased performance and efficiency, but also influences the entire electromobility value chain - from vehicle manufacturers and suppliers to charging infrastructure operators and end users.
The ENLIGHTEN consortium, consisting of leading research institutions, industry partners and universities, is developing an advanced electrical system architecture as the basis for an innovative powertrain. This will be designed specifically for a C-segment vehicle (compact class) and demonstrated up to technology maturity level TRL5.
Technological innovations for maximum efficiency
The ENLIGHTEN system comprises:
- A dual high-voltage battery system with dynamic voltage switching while driving, enabling an optimum balance between performance and energy efficiency.
- An integrated motor-inverter drivetrain that combines high efficiency and a compact design.
- A highly efficient DC/DC converter for flexible adaptation of the system voltage.
- An AC/DC-capable onboard charger that supports both DC charging and conventional AC charging.
- A powerful Power Distribution Unit (PDU) that enables intelligent energy distribution within the vehicle.
The consistent use of state-of-the-art gallium nitride (GaN) semiconductor technology minimises power losses, maximises efficiency and at the same time reduces cooling and installation space requirements. The system architecture thus significantly exceeds the current state of the art and sets new standards for future electric vehicles.
The role of the AIT Austrian Institute of Technology
As consortium leader of the ENLIGHTEN project, the AIT Austrian Institute of Technology is contributing its leading expertise in the fields of power electronics, battery systems and system integration. In addition to scientific and organisational coordination, Austria's largest non-university research institution is developing and validating key technologies for the new 1,200-volt high-voltage architecture. In close cooperation with industrial partners and academic institutions, the AIT is thus helping to strengthen the innovative power and competitiveness of the European automotive industry.
Project manager Hannes Lacher emphasises: "With 1,200 volts, ENLIGHTEN is bringing the next generation of electric drive onto the road - more powerful, more efficient and more sustainable, without neglecting the existing charging infrastructure."