Thesis work - Estimation of Battery State of Charge using changes in internal cell resistance
Thesis Worker at Volvo Cars
Welcome to explore the world of Volvo Cars by writing your thesis with us! As a thesis worker in our organization you are supported by a supervisor who follows you during your project. Through your thesis work you will be able to contribute to our company purpose – providing freedom to move in a safe, sustainable and personal way – from day one!
About this opportunity - Background
A key attribute of the battery management systems is the state of charge (SoC). This is a measure of the amount of energy currently in the battery, and an accurate value is important both for the battery management system as well as for the driver. However, it cannot be measured directly, so it needs to be estimated from measured data, such as charged/discharged current, battery voltage, and temperature.
For some cell chemistries, however, cell voltage does not always correlate well with the SoC, rendering SoC estimation very difficult in such cases. By tracking changes in the cell voltage, abrupt changes in the internal resistance of the cell can be detected. These changes in internal resistance can then potentially be used to estimate the SoC.
Scope of the thesis work
In this master thesis we want to investigate how changes in voltage over time can be used to estimate SoC. We will work with data from both the lab and the car to derive and evaluate if such a method is suitable for SoC estimation. We will ensure that the solutions are straightforward enough to be implementable, while also being robust to changes in temperature and ageing of the battery.
What you'll bring
You are currently enrolled as a student in the final year of a master’s degree in electrical engineering, engineering physics, applied mathematics, or similar. You need strong skills in programming, preferably with experience working with Matlab and Simulink. Knowledge of batteries and battery management is a merit, but not mandatory. The work will be conducted on-site at Volvo Cars.
Duration
• January to June 2026
• 30 points ECTS (academic credits) if in agreement with your Thesis Advisor in University
• Thesis is to be conducted by 2 students
Volvo Cars. For Life.
For nearly a century, Volvo Cars has empowered people to move freely in a personal, sustainable and safe way. Today, we are driving bold advancements in electrification, sustainability and automotive safety. To realise our ambitious vision, we are seeking innovative minds who are ready to tackle the challenges of tomorrow – today.
At Volvo Cars, we believe extraordinary things are achieved by ordinary people with a passion for making a difference. If you’re inspired by the opportunity to help redefine the future of mobility, we invite you to be part of our journey.
Ready to take the next step?
Submit your CV in English and tell us why you’re the ideal candidate for a role at Volvo Cars. You will receive a confirmation email after your submission.
Selection will be ongoing during the application period, so do not hesitate to send in your application. Attach your CV, your university transcript of records, and a personal letter stating your interests within the given area and your thoughts and credentials. Please state in the application if you have a suggestion of a student that you would like to collaborate with, as this project is suitable for two students (still both of you are expected to send in an individual application). Apply as soon as possible, but no later than October 31, 2025. Please note that applications via email will not be accepted.
For questions about the thesis work please contact, Fredrik Bengtsson at fredrik.bengtsson.3@volvocars.com
As part of the recruitment process, the final candidates might undergo a background check.
Welcome with your application!
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