Build your EV
Get to know your EV
In the process of crafting your own electric car, understanding the core components and their seamless integration is paramount to success
The Battery: At the heart of every EV lies the battery, a powerhouse storing electrical energy. Commonly lithium-ion, its capacity dictates the vehicle’s range, offering a dynamic balance between energy density and recharge-ability.
What we are using : 12v rechargeable lithium ion battery
The Motor: Replacing traditional internal combustion engines, electric vehicles embrace electric motors. Options range from AC to DC motors, each converting electrical energy from the battery into the mechanical force required for motion.
What we are using: 6v DC motors to drive individual wheels
The Motor Controller: Functioning as the vehicle’s brain, the motor controller interprets signals from an array of sources, primarily the Arduino controller. It regulates the power supplied to the electric motor, ensuring smooth acceleration, deceleration, and energy regeneration during braking.
What we are using: LM 298 motor controller
Arduino Controller: Integrating the power of programming, the Arduino controller acts as the orchestrator. It receives input signals from user interfaces like the accelerator pedal and steering wheel, translating them into precise commands for the motor controller. In this case, it will be relay signals received via the bluetooth module, HC 05
Chassis: The chassis forms the structural backbone, balancing strength, weight, and aerodynamics. Its design influences the overall performance of the electric vehicle, emphasizing the importance of a well-engineered framework.
Wheels: Wheels are the tangible link between the electric motor’s power and the road. Tires provide traction, while the wheels transmit power from the motor to the ground. Proper alignment and tire selection are pivotal for both efficiency and safety.
All coming together
Below is a visual of the Hyundai Ioniq5 E-GMP platform where all of these components come together in a beautiful skateboard design
Below is a video walk through by Tafhim Nasir of assembling the different modules and making the electrical connections
Electrical Connections
Motors Connection:
Out1 -> Left Side Motor Red Wire (+ )
Out2 -> Left Side Motor Black Wire ( – )
Out3 -> Right Side Motor Red Wire ( + )
Out4 -> Right Side Motor Black Wire ( – )
LM298 – > Arduino
IN1 -> D5
IN2-> D6
IN3 ->D10
IN4-> D11
Bluetooth Module -> Arduino
Rx-> Tx
Tx ->Rx
GND -> GND
Vcc -> 3.3V
Power :
12V – > Connect Battery Red Wire
GND -> Connect Battery Black wire and Arduino GND pin
5V -> Connect to Arduino 5V pin
Code
The below Code has been preloaded on to the Arduino Uno board in interest of optimizing for time. You can have a look at the code to understand what commands will lead to what actions
Remote Control
You will need to download the below app from Android Play store to control the car via Bluetooth. Please pair your device with Hc-05 Bluetooth module and use the key 1234 for pairing.
Once paired, you will need to open the app and configure the keys per the code and connect the app to the module
Suggested pairing:
1 – 1 ( Slow Speed )
2- 9 ( high Speed )
L – Left
R – Right
F – Forward
B – Back
Let’s stay curious and explore!