Automotive Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) face a unique challenge when planning new EV testing and development facilities. They must prepare for future EV technology advancements while avoiding excessive investment in the present.
This balancing act is made more difficult by the rapid pace of change. By the time a facility is ready, the original design might already be outdated. The equipment chosen early on may no longer be adequate for new testing needs and evolving product goals.
To address this, it’s essential to think ahead when specifying test equipment. Strategic decisions can help manage costs while accounting for potential shifts in business objectives. This process often requires a thorough comparison of test equipment from various vendors.
Understanding current trends in electric vehicle technology is key to future-proofing. Here are three significant battery technology trends impacting the automotive industry, which manufacturers should keep in mind when planning for the future.
1. Building for Next-Generation Batteries OEMs are increasingly looking to the future when designing facilities capable of testing batteries that are not yet available in today's vehicles. Fierce competition drives manufacturers to create equipment that exceeds current capabilities, particularly in the battery simulation sector. However, this fast-paced development often results in untested technology, which may not perform as expected initially, requiring adjustments during commissioning.
2. Preparing for the Decline of Combustion Engines While many OEMs publicly commit to electrification, they still value the ability to quickly return to combustion engine testing if needed. This leads some manufacturers to maintain traditional combustion infrastructure while upgrading facilities for electric testing. By repurposing these hybrid spaces, companies can retain flexibility without the need for complete infrastructure overhauls, allowing them to reactivate systems efficiently and at a lower cost.
3. Overcoming Supply Chain Delays for Key Equipment Supply chain disruptions continue to impact construction timelines, particularly for power distribution equipment in high demand. EV testing facilities, especially those handling higher capacity batteries, require significant electrical infrastructure. Lead times for essential components like 480V switchgear can extend beyond 18 months, causing delays and potentially making equipment outdated before installation is complete.
Minimizing Design Plan Obsolescence These trends are just a few factors contributing to the risk of outdated designs during lengthy EV facility projects. Partnering with an experienced design and equipment integrator early on can mitigate these risks. A knowledgeable integrator can help balance the need for flexibility in combustion and electric testing while ensuring the facility is equipped with state-of-the-art technology.
