This week, our lead electrical engineer Wouter shares a deeper dive into our 48 Volt architecture.
“We aim to make the most of every sun ray by minimizing electrical losses.”
- Wouter Jansen
How the Squad is more efficient than most electric cars
Most electric cars (EVs), even modern ones, rely on a dual-voltage system. They use a traditional 12-Volt system to power low-energy accessories like lights and infotainment displays, while the main motor and high-power components run on a newer, higher-voltage system (often 400V or 800V, but sometimes 48V for smaller vehicles). The main problem with this setup is inefficiency. The high-voltage battery's energy for accessories has to be converted down to 12V. Every conversion step wastes precious energy, which ultimately impacts the vehicle's total range.
Squad’s 48-Volt architecture
At Squad, we streamlined the process by skipping the inefficient 12V system almost entirely. We’ve adopted a unified 48-Volt architecture where all major high-energy components like the motor, AC, the windshield wiper, and even the horn, run directly and efficiently on the 48V battery. This dedicated approach maximizes the energy stored in the battery pack. And keep in mind, our 48V battery can be directly and entirely charged by the sun, for free!
What does this mean for the Squad community?
Everything we do with the Squad car is towards our goal to make solar mobility for everyone. So here are 3 major reasons why we went for and 48-Volt architecture.
More range: By directly powering high-consumption components, we eliminate the need for inefficient voltage converters. This simple but elegant solution reduces energy loss, making the Squad much more efficient with its battery power. Helping you travel further on a single charge.
Savings with lighter and cheaper wiring: Geek fact: a fundamental principle of electricity is that a higher voltage requires less electrical current to deliver the same power. For us, less current means we can use thinner, lighter, and more cost-effective copper wiring throughout the vehicle. This weight saving is especially valuable for a light EV like the Squad, and boosts efficiency even further.
A more reliable ride: The combination of increased energy efficiency, lighter overall vehicle weight, and reduced production complexity from simpler wiring, wraps itself in a robust and reliable package. A great example of 'The best part is no part', reducing converters and potential points of failure. So, a more affordable car with better range and reduced maintenance costs.
In case you haven't heard...
Our crowdfunding campaign in on Republic Europe.
Now's your chance to be part of a change in urban mobility. More than 280 people have pledged their interest during the pre-registration phase. Now is the time to take advantage of this powerful momentum. Have a look! https://europe.republic.com/squad-mobility.
First you may still need to create your account if you haven't already.
- Create a Republic Europe account
- Verify your identity
If you’ve yet to complete these tasks, we’ve got you covered. See our guide on how to create your account and become ready to invest or follow the quick step-by-step below. If you have any questions regarding sign up or our campaign, feel free to reach out to eur-support@republic.com.
If you haven't joined Republic Europe yet, here's what you'll need to do:
1. Open your account and become authorised to invest
You'll need to create a Republic Europe account here to view full details of the pitch. You also need to become authorised to view financial promotions, as required by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) under the Financial Services and Market Act 2000 (FSMA).
2. Verify your identity
You'll need to verify your identity to invest and participate in the discussion forum. Have your photo ID document on-hand. Republic Europe takes a few small steps to prevent financial crime and to comply with Anti-Money Laundering and Financial Crime regulations.
Thank you, from the entire team, for continuing to share this journey with us. We are taking the Squad further towards production, and we genuinely want you by our side.
Investing involves risks, including loss of capital, illiquidity, lack of dividends and dilution, and should be done only as part of a diversified portfolio. Please read the Risk Warnings before investing. Investments should only be made by investors who understand these risks. Tax treatment depends on individual circumstances and is subject to change in future. No communications about any campaigns on Republic Europe you receive from Republic Europe or the fundraising business, through email or any other medium, should be construed as an investment recommendation.
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