Although full-functioning high-speed electric vehicles seem to just be kicking off in the 21st century, the development of the electric car has been in the works for decades. Today’s electric vehicles are far more sophisticated and engineered, however. They employ a variety of new technology and concepts.
The appeal lies in powering a moving vehicle with a battery-powered component, but that doesn’t make the design any less complicated. Today’s designs require cable assemblies and other components needed for the operation of these vehicles.
So, what role do cable assemblies play in the function of the electric vehicle? Let’s look under the hood for some fascinating details about the development and growth of this industry.
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The Electric Vehicle Industry During the Worldwide Pandemic
You’d be hard-pressed to find an industry untouched by the Covid pandemic and its ripple effects. The electric vehicle market suffered consequences just like the rest of the automotive sector. The demand for quality cable and cable assemblies increased. The EV (electric vehicle) cable market is projected to grow at a considerable rate of 26.9%. Estimates say the industry will reach 13.1 billion by 2026 in the United States.
While the extraction of materials like copper, steel, and aluminum was not too adversely affected by the pandemic, the price of these materials is still expected to rise due to some backlogs and restrictions in place in 2020 and 2021.
What Are EV Cables?
While the internal design of an electric vehicle is meant to eliminate the various systems that a motor vehicle has, it still requires a well-designed cable assembly that performs necessary functions. They aid in signal transmission and in powering up the various electrical components of the vehicle.
As countries shift towards cutting down carbon emissions, the demand for electric vehicle production is set to experience a significant surge as 2022 sets in. This market is growing all around the world, including places like Asia, where the demand for advanced technologies in vehicles is quickly expanding.
Electric vehicles use a lot of wiring and this means companies are looking to find the best materials to accommodate these needs.
The Passenger Electric Vehicle
As companies like Tesla and others pioneer the way for the production of the electric car, the popularity of the passenger electric vehicle is expected to dominate the markets. Because the demand for electric passenger vehicles is greater than for electric commercial vehicles, manufacturers are focusing on making their cars high-functioning for the average driver.
While the focus is often on the electric battery, the wiring harnesses are some of the more expensive and heavier components in a vehicle. The wide range of electric vehicles emerging on the market means that some models often require custom-made cable systems, carefully assembled by hand to ensure their proper operation.
The push for newer more efficient technologies is driving this innovation in cable assemblies and has resulted in several innovations such as:
- Electrification of drive trains which increases the need for cabling
- The use of a central domain computer instead of several ECUs (distributed electronic control units)
- The increased and enhanced use of sensors in the exterior and interior of the vehicle
An electric vehicle uses very specific cable applications to run some of its more important functions including:
- Safety features: For the high-functioning demand of an electric vehicle, you need external and internal sensors that process data. This is especially true in autonomous driving capabilities, which increase the need for precise cabling assemblies.
- Driving automation features: One of the appeals of electric vehicles is their capacity to implement automation features. Any automation setting will require additional sensors and cabling.
- EV charging stations: The need to extend battery life is one of the leading objectives for electric vehicle companies. Consumers are not thrilled with spending large amounts of time in charging stations, which means there is a higher demand for a vehicle’s internal power supply and support systems—all aided by cabling and networking.
- Added functionality: Electric vehicles are also known for their luxury and increased functionality. Drivers want access to the latest high-tech music applications, televisions, or even gaming installed in their vehicles.
Are You Looking for Reliable Wire Harnesses for Your Application? Trust the Leader in Custom Wire Harness and Cable Assemblies
Cesar-Scott has a proven track record of being on the cutting-edge of cabling technology and innovation. Today’s electrical wiring systems require very specific wire harnesses and cable assemblies. For over 30 years, Cesar-Scott has been a leader in wire harness manufacturing and cable management products.
Have questions about what we do or how we can help you? Contact the Cesar-Scott team today.