Abstract: A dual-motor electric vehicle (EV) drive system is provided that employs two different types of electric motors; at least one permanent magnet synchronous motor and at least one induction asynchronous motor. Under most low demand driving applications the EV relies on the permanent magnet motor(s), thus benefiting from the operating efficiency of this type of motor. Under high demand driving applications, for example during strong acceleration and high speed cruising, the EV is able to benefit from the output power capabilities of the induction motor(s).

Abstract: A pair of current distribution links are provided for use with a battery assembly in which the batteries are divided into groups, and where the batteries within each battery group are connected in parallel and the groups are connected in series. The batteries are interconnected using a repetitive sequence of non-overlapping, alternating polarity bus bars. The current distribution links evenly distribute the current among the parallel connected batteries, thereby eliminating the current imbalance that results from the use of a single point electrical connection. By eliminating current imbalance, each battery is subjected to the same load and will tend to heat at the same rate, resulting in the batteries aging at the same rate.

Abstract: An auxiliary thermal management system is provided that can be used to supplement an electric vehicle's on-board thermal management system during charging, thereby allowing a fast charging system to be used without adding weight or taking up packaging volume in the EV. The auxiliary system is configured to allow it to be coupled, for example using quick-disconnect couplings, to thermal conduits within the vehicle's battery pack.

Abstract: An auxiliary thermal management system is provided that can be used to supplement an electric vehicle's on-board thermal management system during charging, thereby allowing a fast charging system to be used without adding weight or taking up packaging volume in the EV. The auxiliary system is configured to allow it to force cooled, or heated, air through the radiator of the on-board thermal management system. An air duct, which may be adjusted in order to accommodate a wide range of EVs, provides efficient transfer of conditioned air to the on-board radiator.

Abstract: A pair of current distribution links are provided for use with a battery assembly in which the batteries are divided into groups, and where the batteries within each battery group are connected in parallel and the groups are connected in series. The batteries are interconnected using a repetitive sequence of non-overlapping, alternating polarity bus bars. The current distribution links evenly distribute the current among the parallel connected batteries, thereby eliminating the current imbalance that results from the use of a single point electrical connection. By eliminating current imbalance, each battery is subjected to the same load and will tend to heat at the same rate, resulting in the batteries aging at the same rate.