• About Traction Inverter
• Locating the Inverter
• Main Components
• Causes of Failure
• Signs of Malfunctioning
• FAQs

The internal mechanisms for electric-powered vehicles are entirely different compared to conventional fuel-powered cars. There is no engine or transmission, two of the basic components for internal combustion vehicles. The power source of an EV is its battery pack and electric motor. These components provide all the torque and acceleration while maintaining the traction for EV drivetrains. Another little-known component, which plays a crucial role in the mobility process is the EV traction inverter.

Let’s find out what the traction inverter in an electric vehicle is and how it works.

What is EV Traction Inverter?

Equipped with advanced specs, many modern electric cars tend to achieve instant torque. However, to keep manoeuvrability safe at high speeds, traction is eminent. This is why there is a purpose-built electronic device called a traction inverter for an electric vehicle.

When at work in an EV, a traction inverter converts a direct current (DC) output from the batteries into an alternating current (AC) output. This process also maintains the vehicle’s power output in terms of its acceleration over a particular surface. 

Traction inverters work together with batteries, electric motors and other crucial EV mobility components. From controlling the power output to traction, the entire process of how electric vehicles work is driven by modern technology.  

EV Traction Inverter Location

The positioning of a traction inverter in electric cars plays a crucial role. It is often located at a centre point between the electric motor, batteries and the EV charging point. That said, the exact location of the inverter may vary from model to model. The positioning of inverters may also vary in EVs vs hybrid cars since both these vehicle types function differently.

Components of Traction Inverter in Electric Cars

Traction inverter for EVs works in synchronisation with a control system based on the following components.

Current Sensors

These sensors are designed to monitor the current flow in the inverter’s electronics. The measurements are useful in controlling the inverter’s current output.

Voltage Sensors 

These sensors measure the voltage at the inverter’s input and output. The voltage measurements are used to control the output voltage of the inverter.

Fault Protection Mechanisms

The control system of the traction inverter of an EV includes fault detection and protection mechanisms. As the term implies, this mechanism timely detects and protects against faults, ensuring safe inverter operation. Such safety protocols also prevent EVs from catching fire.

Causes of Failing Traction Inverter in Electric Vehicles

Some of the evident causes that lead to traction inverter failure in EVs include:

Faulty Sensors

According to the anatomy of an EV traction inverter, sensors play a critical role in the system’s performance and safety. Once the current or voltage sensors go bad, either the current flow or voltage frequency gets disrupted. These failures could lead to various traction inverter problems.

Worn-Out Battery

Since the traction inverters draw power from a battery, using a worn-out one can cause damage. That said, certain techniques can help boost an EV’s battery life.

Problematic Electric Circuits

The entire EV system is based on a web of electric circuits. Current flowing through these circuits has a direct impact on the performance of EV traction inverters and motors. If an electric circuit is having issues, it may cause the traction inverter to go bad.

Signs of Malfunctioning Electric Car Traction Inverter

How to diagnose a failing traction inverter in electric vehicles. Here are some common signs to look out for.

Uncontrollable Electric Motor

Without the effective working of a traction inverter, an EV motor may become uncontrollable. This means hitting the acceleration pedal may result in erratic vehicle throttle, which makes it unsafe to drive.

Frequent Battery Drainage

A malfunctioning traction inverter may drain more EV battery power in the AC-DC conversion process. Besides, take note of these EV battery maintenance tips to avoid all the entailing issues of a worn-out battery.

Car’s Less Responsive Manoeuvrability

A failing traction inverter may lead to loss of control and power output. This problem could significantly impact an EV’s manoeuvrability. It is one of the noteworthy signs of a failing traction inverter in an electric vehicle.

FAQs

What is a Traction Power Inverter Module in EVs?

Traction Power Inverter Module (TPIM) is commonly found in hybrid and Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs). As an energy-saving product, it converts regenerative power in hybrid vehicles into AC power for the electric motor.

How to fix a bad traction inverter in electric cars?

Upon experiencing any symptoms of traction inverter failure, read the car owner’s manual for the necessary solution. Since the traction inverter is linked to several high-voltage equipment, seek help from a certified technician.

What are the next-gen traction inverters for EVs?

According to a wide perception, the future of cars is smart and sustainable. The invention of the next-generation traction inverters reflects this perception. These devices are faster, safer and more efficient. The progressive nature of technology tends to overcome many of the common EV battery problems motorists face today.

What is traction system in EV?

The traction system in EVs is based on the functioning of traction motors. These EV motors function by converting electric energy into mechanical energy, propelling the vehicle.

This brings us to the end of the anatomy of an EV traction inverter. By learning more about such crucial components, we’d be able to better differentiate between EV myths and facts. Moreover, aspiring EV owners can check out these upcoming electric cars in the UAE.

Similarly, the pre-owned market also has tons of options for those choosing between electric and petrol cars. To explore the available makes and models, browse these used cars for sale in the UAE.

For more updates on the high-voltage traction inverter in EVs, keep reading dubizzle’s auto blog.