Volkswagen’s Knoxville Innovation Hub: Advancing Electric Vehicle Technology
When it comes to Volkswagen innovations, the United States may not be the first place that comes to mind. However, the automaker’s Knoxville, Tennessee innovation hub is making significant strides in improving all vehicles, with a particular focus on electric ones.
One of the key projects being developed at the Knoxville innovation hub is wireless vehicle charging. Similar to charging your phone, the convenience of simply parking your electric vehicle (EV) in a designated spot to boost its battery is undeniable. The innovation hub is working on a new coil design that aims to make wireless chargers safer and faster.
The patented design utilizes a silicon-carbide inverter, which increases the charging power from 6.6 kW in early prototypes to an impressive 120 kW. This allows EVs to charge quickly without the need for physical connection. The ultimate goal is to boost the charging power up to 300 kW, further enhancing the convenience and efficiency of wireless charging.
In addition to improving charging technology, Volkswagen is also focused on developing sustainable materials for the interiors of electric vehicles. The innovation hub is working on paper-based materials that are both recyclable and versatile. Through a hot-pressing technique, cellulose fiber reinforced thermoplastics can be molded into various shapes, offering multiple texture and color options. Volkswagen is already exploring ways to incorporate these eco-friendly materials into their future vehicles.
Another notable achievement of the Knoxville innovation hub is the development of a new kind of fiberglass reinforced plastic. In initial tests, this material was found to be 35 percent lighter than the metal panel it replaced, making it ideal for performance vehicles. As a result, this lightweight material can already be found in prestigious models such as the Bentley Continental and the Lamborghini Aventador. For electric vehicles, the lighter material can help extend their range, contributing to their overall efficiency.
Furthermore, the Knoxville team is utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) to develop new material structures that further reduce weight. By employing a deep learning algorithm, they have created a modular repeating structure that can be 3D printed from liquid resin. Despite its small size, pieces made using this structure can support up to 30,000 times their own weight. This innovation is particularly valuable for the frames that hold an EV’s battery pack in place. Volkswagen estimates that a housing made of this material would weigh 60 percent less than a conventional steel unit while still providing excellent energy absorption qualities for safety. This advancement not only helps extend EV ranges but also contributes to overall vehicle sustainability.
The Volkswagen Innovation Hub in Knoxville is a testament to the power of collaboration and interdisciplinary research. By bringing together scientists and researchers from various disciplines and organizations, Volkswagen has created a thriving innovation ecosystem. The hub’s partnerships with Oak Ridge National Lab and other industry leaders and tech startups located at UT’s Research Park have paved the way for scientific advances and industry-ready technology.
In conclusion, Volkswagen’s Knoxville Innovation Hub is at the forefront of advancing electric vehicle technology. Through projects focused on wireless charging, sustainable materials, lightweight construction, and AI-driven material structures, the innovation hub is driving innovation in the automotive industry. These advancements not only improve the performance and efficiency of electric vehicles but also contribute to a more sustainable future. With its commitment to research and collaboration, Volkswagen is proving that groundbreaking innovations can come from unexpected places.