In the rapidly evolving world of electric vehicles (EVs), one of the critical challenges has been effective thermal management. A recent study published in *Zhileng xuebao* (translated as *Journal of Vehicle Engineering*) sheds light on a promising breakthrough that could redefine how EVs balance cabin comfort and battery performance. Led by ZHANG Chenguang, the research introduces a dual-objective control strategy for direct-cooling systems, offering a nuanced approach to temperature regulation that could have significant commercial implications for the energy sector.
The study addresses a fundamental issue in EV design: the differing temperature response characteristics of the cabin and the power battery. Traditional thermal management systems often prioritize one over the other, leading to suboptimal performance in either comfort or battery efficiency. ZHANG Chenguang and his team developed a dynamic control strategy that adjusts thermal control priorities in real-time based on environmental conditions, vehicle status, and real-time temperature data. This dual-objective approach ensures that both the cabin and battery operate at peak performance, regardless of external temperatures.
To validate their strategy, the researchers constructed a thermal management system test bench within an environmental chamber and developed a simulation model of the vehicle’s thermal management system. They compared the performance of their dual-objective strategy against two other control strategies under various driving conditions and environmental temperatures. The results were compelling. Under high-temperature conditions of 35°C, the cabin and battery reached their target temperatures in just 51 seconds and 547 seconds, respectively. In low-temperature conditions of -7°C, they achieved preset values in 127 seconds and 365 seconds, with a significantly improved state-of-charge (SOC) recovery rate.
While the dual-objective strategy did show a slight increase in energy consumption—approximately 1.2% to 3.0% higher than a cabin-priority strategy—it substantially enhanced battery thermal control efficiency and overall system performance. “The dual-objective strategy not only ensures optimal temperature control but also significantly improves the battery’s SOC recovery rate, which is crucial for extending the vehicle’s range and longevity,” ZHANG Chenguang explained. This balance between energy efficiency and performance could be a game-changer for EV manufacturers, offering a more sustainable and cost-effective solution for thermal management.
The commercial implications of this research are vast. As the demand for EVs continues to grow, so does the need for innovative solutions that enhance both user experience and battery life. The dual-objective control strategy could become a standard in the industry, particularly as automakers strive to meet stricter environmental regulations and consumer expectations. By optimizing thermal management, EVs could achieve longer ranges, reduced charging times, and improved durability, making them more attractive to a broader market.
Moreover, the energy sector stands to benefit from advancements in thermal management technologies. Efficient thermal control systems can reduce the energy consumption of EVs, leading to lower operational costs and a smaller carbon footprint. This aligns with global efforts to transition to cleaner energy sources and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
As the EV market continues to evolve, research like ZHANG Chenguang’s highlights the importance of interdisciplinary innovation. By integrating advanced control strategies with cutting-edge thermal management systems, the industry can overcome long-standing challenges and pave the way for a more sustainable future. The dual-objective control strategy represents a significant step forward, offering a blueprint for future developments in EV technology. As the research was published in *Zhileng xuebao*, it underscores the growing importance of international collaboration and knowledge sharing in driving progress in the field.