Virtual
Magnets in EV Motors
Prelims:
Science & Technology
Mains:
GS Paper III-Science & Technology
Current relevance:
A Bengaluru-based startup, Vimag Labs, has claimed to replace rare-earth permanent magnets in
electric vehicle (EV) motors with electromagnets
("virtual magnets") controlled through software.
Highlights:
Virtual Magnets:
1.
The motor replaces permanent magnets with copper
coils wound around a ferromagnetic
core, which become electromagnets
when supplied with electric current.
2. The software does not generate magnetism but
regulates the current supplied to the coils, thereby controlling the strength and direction of the
electromagnetic field.
Established Use of Electromagnets:
1.
Use in
Power Generation:
Large
generators in hydroelectric, thermal and
nuclear power plants have long used electromagnets
instead of permanent magnets.
2. Brushless Excitation System:
As the
rotor rotates continuously, a rectifier mounted on it converts AC into DC to energise the rotor coils, eliminating the
need to supply DC through sliding contacts.
Electromagnets in EVs
1.
Electrically
Excited Motors: BMW and Renault have been working on motors that use electromagnets instead of permanent
magnets.
2. Even a
0.1% improvement in motor efficiency can significantly increase
an EV's driving range, or enable a smaller battery, thereby reducing the
vehicle's weight and cost.
3. Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motors
(PMSMs) currently dominate the EV market because they offer the highest efficiency, while the battery
pack remains the costliest and heaviest component
of an EV.
Source: THE HINDU- https://www.pressreader.com/india/the-hindu-international-9bn2/20260730/281934549743681?srsltid=AfmBOopekzUc7JZDP83gsRFBrAVR6igrGpIg7VENH7MuLOm9P8RaBpb0