Thesis Work - Hybrid Battery Disconnection Unit for maximum performance and safety

About this opportunity - Background

The rapid transformation of the automotive market towards electrification is, to a great extent, driven by the technological improvements in the battery area. Higher energy density and lower cost make battery electric vehicles competitive and affordable for a wider range of customers. To keep improving, we need to dive deeper into several fields of battery development, from how we can charge the batteries faster to how we can minimize the environmental footprint. There is a need to introduce new ideas and innovate in order to cope with new demands and the competitiveness of the business.  
 
A big part of the challenges encountered in the automotive industry, and more specifically for utility vehicles, is the lack of space for placement of components, which might lead to design changes or not design intended changes due to those restrictions. Downsizing components or innovative ideas to perform the same task is a crucial aspect for the development of new vehicle platforms and always with relation to efficiency, performance, safety, and cost. 

Scope of the thesis work

Combine the advantages of mechanical contactors (low on-resistance, cost) with those of solid-state switches (fast response, no arcing) to design a BDU that performs well under fault conditions.

Description
•    How to coordinate mechanical & solid‐state switching so that switching losses, heat, and cost are minimized?
•    What is the trade-off in speed vs durability vs thermal / power loss?
•    How to manage the arcing/transient behavior when switching from solid state to mechanical or vice versa?

Methods:
•    Modelling (electrical, thermal) of different switching topologies.

What you'll bring

You are a Master's student in electrical/electronics, mechanical engineering, or a similar field. As a person, you have high analytical skills and like to dig into data to find solutions for your challenges. You are also result-oriented and can present your achievements to other colleagues in a clear and structured way. Your workplace will primarily be in Volvo Cars' offices, but flexibility will be allowed in a good dialogue with your mentor.

Duration

•    The work will start in January 2026.
•    The duration for this thesis work is 20 weeks.
•    30 ECTS (academic credits) in agreement with your Thesis Advisor at the University
•    This thesis is to be conducted by 1 or 2 Students working in pair.