Abstract
The resource-saving and energy-efficient design of an entire vehicle is of great importance, especially when it comes to vehicles with electric propulsion. Thus, a special lightweight body for electric vehicles shall be developed within the scope of the national publicly funded project Light-eBody.
Besides aerodynamics and the further development of battery technology lightweight constructions are particularly appropriate to reduce energy consumption and therefore extend the vehicle range. Thus, a research consortium of 14 partners develops a light, resource-saving multi-material body for electric vehicles suitable for large scale production.
The reduction of weight becomes possible with the help of an optimal use of different materials in a concept that is consequently tailored to the requirements of an electrically powered vehicle. A battery pack that is integrated into the structure contributes to stability and safety of the vehicle and therefore provides access to further lightweight potential. In addition to the design of new material concepts and manufacturing processes for multi-material lightweight bodies, the focus is on the development of necessary simulation technologies and appropriate joining methods as those are only partially existing for the expected combinations of material.
KEYWORDS – Lightweight design, multi-material approach, e-mobility, vehicle body, joining