A central element of the project is a new system architecture designed to remove the need for traditional low-voltage batteries in electric vehicles. This standard refers to 12-volt batteries, which are also used in internal combustion engine vehicles and remain a fixed component in EVs until now. It powers the on-board electrical system and functions such as lighting, windscreen wipers, infotainment and central locking. Also, the 12-volt battery is considered a critical weak point, as a failure can disable the entire vehicle.
The REDSEL project proposes to replace traditional low-voltage batteries in electric vehicles by using a high-voltage system. Specifically, this concept relies on two high-voltage batteries that handle functions typically handled by a 12-volt unit. This approach is based on a redundant system architecture with active balancing between both batteries, which enables equal load distribution and enhances operational safety.
Additionally, the project includes the development of a multi-input power electronics converter, designed to be compact, efficient and space-saving, supporting the integration of new system architectures.
“The technologies we have developed lay the foundation for lighter and more robust vehicle electrical systems, making an important contribution to the advancement of electric mobility for future autonomous applications,” said Albert Frank, project leader at Silicon Austria Labs.
The project used Infineon’s modern semiconductor solutions, including OptiMOS-7 components with 750 V silicon carbide MOSFETs (CoolSiC) for the high-voltage range and 30 V for the low-voltage range. Additionally, a new protection architecture was developed for switching functions, replacing mechanical relays with semiconductor switches. This is expected to reduce space requirements and weight as well as improve system reliability and operational safety.
“REDSEL is an excellent example of how new, innovative system solutions can emerge through collaboration between academic and industrial partners. The system demonstrator developed for the project impressively demonstrates how new vehicle electrical architectures can be implemented more safely and scalable in the future,” said Ernst Katzmeyer, project leader at Infineon Technologies Austria.
