Innovative approach to electric vehicle diagnostics

Małek, Arkadiusz; Taccani, Rodolfo · 2021 · Crossref

DOI: 10.14669/am.vol92.art4

archive: archived pipeline: cataloged verified

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Summary

This paper addresses the growing need for effective diagnostic and servicing procedures for electric vehicles (EVs), driven by the rapid expansion of electromobility and the distinct technical differences between EVs and internal combustion engine vehicles. The authors highlight that while EVs offer ecological and performance advantages, their maintenance requires specialized knowledge, infrastructure, and tools that many independent repair shops currently lack. The study aims to propose an innovative, scientifically grounded approach to EV diagnostics, specifically focusing on the assessment of traction battery health, which is critical for vehicle range and reliability. The research combines a literature review of market trends and scientific standards with a practical case study. The authors collaborated with a repair shop in Lublin, Poland, to develop internal standards and procedures for EV servicing. The experimental component involved diagnosing the traction batteries of a Renault Twizy, a small urban electric vehicle, after 4.5 years of operation and 30,000 km of mileage. The diagnostic process utilized a Bosch KTS device connected to the vehicle’s On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) port. The methodology included measuring the State of Charge (SoC), high-voltage battery parameters, and individual module voltages. The authors proposed a specific algorithm involving total discharge and slow charging cycles to measure energy consumption and compare it against nominal capacity, alongside statistical analysis of voltage deviations among battery modules to assess balance. The findings from the Renault Twizy test indicated that the traction batteries were in very good condition, with minimal voltage differences between individual modules. The measured decrease in actual battery capacity compared to the nominal value was 8.721%, which is well below the manufacturer’s warranty threshold for replacement (20% capacity loss). The study also concluded that an innovative diagnostic approach—incorporating road or dyno testing with data logging rather than stationary tests alone—yields higher efficiency. The authors identified that successful EV servicing requires dedicated workshop infrastructure with separate diagnostic zones, specific safety equipment, and staff trained in automotive electrical engineering and CAN bus communication. The significance of this work lies in its provision of a practical framework for independent workshops to enter the EV service market, which is currently dominated by expensive authorized service providers. The authors argue that establishing proper infrastructure, training, and scientific cooperation is essential for safety and efficiency. They conclude that EV diagnostics is a promising investment area due to the global trend toward electromobility, but it requires overcoming current legislative and technical gaps. The proposed methods offer a pathway for non-authorized shops to provide reliable, cost-effective services, thereby supporting the broader adoption of electric transport.

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