CHALLENGES

Several Innovation and Technological Challenges (ITC) have been identified:

The first challenge (ITC1)

focuses on integrating solid-state batteries (generation-4 cells) into vehicle structures, specifically developing designs that can be seamlessly integrated into vehicle frameworks, particularly in a modular fashion that allows for temporary expansion.

The second challenge (ITC2)

is to develop and enhance sophisticated fast-charging capacities for electric vehicles. It is crucial to improve battery charging rates to a minimum of 3C, aiming for even higher speeds to meet the growing demands of EV consumers.

A third challenge (ITC3)

aims to achieve substantial increases in energy density and significant cost reduction.

A fourth challenge (ITC4)

is to implement an innovative battery management system (BMS) that seamlessly integrated with vehicle electronics and control units, equipped to handle the complexities of more advanced batteries and electric vehicles.

A fifth challenge (ITC5)

Safety enhancements are integral and represent the fifth challenge (ITC5).

The sixth challenge (ITC6)

is to ensure proper end-of-life care and recyclability.

OBJECTIVES

S4MILE aims to introduce a novel battery+chassis system design that is lightweight, compact, flexible, and structurally integrated. It does this by combining structural integration techniques based on big ALU casting/composite unibodies, a battery pack shaped like a “near to skateboard” (N_SKBRD) structure, and an inventive Plug’n’Play V-Box for on-demand capacity expansion. the result is an advanced Cell to Virtual Module (V-module) to Chassis architecture.

so1

Develop lightweight, compact, flexible and structurally integrated battery+chassis system design

so2

Trade-off, implement and validate virtual module to chassis (VM2C) solid state battery architecture

so3

Development and implementation of advanced pressure and thermal management systems to enable and optimize battery/module charging and power performance

s04

Develop an innovative self-reconfigurable battery management system (SRBMS)

so5

Implement and validate ultra-fast charging technology and performance

so6

Ensure BMS and VCU seamless full integration and features connectivity

so7

Development of a comprehensive Digital Twin and a set of sectoral simulation frameworks and tools

so8

Promote and foster sustainability, circularity and safety of the proposed solutions

so9

Synergies creation with relevant projects and initiatives

WORKPLAN

S4MILE is organised in 9 Work Packages, spanning:
WP1-WP5
Multi-disciplinary fundamental and interconnected applied research and engineering.
WP2

TRL4 sectoral validation is conducted for the innovative VM2C structural design.
WP3

Key enabling technologies for the targeted performance.
WP4 & WP5


Advanced BMS concept (WP4) and the virtual modelling tools (WP5).

WP6
Integrated system testing and validation, towards TRL6 demonstration of the full concept is programmed.

WP7
LCA/LCCA and circularity sustainability assessment.




WP8
Dissemination & exploitation and multidisciplinary skill development is assured.

WP9

Coordination & monitoring of the progress so that the strategic/technical objectives are achieved on time and within budget.