Overview
The need for common, scalable and brand-independent technology platforms for the key elements of EV, like the inverter-motor-transmission/gearbox (powertrain) and the battery, is evident. The project 1000kmPLUS will ensure the superiority of European automotive key technologies in terms of performance, scalability and costs for the 2nd and 3rd generation of EV. The EV powertrain and battery technologies must now start to mature, in order to fulfil existential human mobility needs in terms of affordability and usability: this is the key to enter the early mass market. It assumes ramp-up of series production and affordability by economies of scale. 1000kmPLUS will provide key arguments regarding the usability of the 2nd generation of EV to the Early Majority customers. Further, it will speed up the development and the ramp-up of series production of the 3rd EV generation.
To obtain breakthroughs in terms of energy efficiency, driving range, charging and costs, the 1000kmPLUS project develops a Scalable European Powertrain Technology Platform (SEPtop@SiC), which will define automotive powertrains for EV as commodities. It will use 1200 V SiC-MOSFETs to enable a 400 V/800 V cross-compatible inverter-motor-gearbox combo, scalable as a function of the required performance. Furthermore, ultra-fast charging up to 350 kW for everyday use will be demonstrated in an EV providing an initial driving range of 500 km based on its battery energy capacity. The 1000kmPLUS project will enable, demonstrate and set up European mass production capabilities of EV key components (inverter, motor, transmission, SiC-MOSFET power modules, battery cells) by Europe´s leading automotive companies. Further, it will build ECS value chains with focus on quality, safety, efficiency and costs. The 1000kmPLUS project will build up a Mercedes-Benz EQ vehicle to demonstrate the project achievements by performing 3 challenges, representing real use cases for business as well as private travellers.