(SEM III) THEORY EXAMINATION 2023-24 ELECTRIC AND HYBRID VEHICLES

This question paper evaluates a student’s conceptual understanding and analytical abilities in Electric and Hybrid Vehicles (EHV)—a rapidly growing field within modern automotive engineering. The exam is structured into three major sections—A, B, and C, ensuring balanced assessment of fundamental concepts, applied knowledge, and higher-order problem-solving skills.

SECTION A – Short Answer Conceptual Questions (14 Marks)

This section contains seven brief questions carrying 2 marks each, designed to test students’ foundational understanding of the subject.
The questions focus on:

● Automobile basics – layout, components, significance of automobiles
● Environmental aspects – advantages of hybrid and electric vehicles
● Electric vehicle technologies – major electrical components, controllers
● EV Charging – key parts of an EV charger and their functions

This section checks whether students clearly understand the essential definitions, technical terms, and introductory principles related to automobiles and electric/hybrid vehicle systems.

SECTION B – Descriptive / Analytical Questions (21 Marks)

Students must attempt any three out of five questions, each carrying 7 marks.
This section focuses on deeper understanding and detailed explanation.

Topics include:

● Automobile chassis – structure, functions, stability, handling
● Challenges in EV infrastructure – charging networks, limitations
● Permanent Magnet Motor Drives – configuration, control, differences
● Fuel Cell Energy Storage – comparison with battery systems
● EV Charging Methods – types, advantages, limitations

These questions require students to provide well-reasoned explanations, supported by technical knowledge, practical implications, and comparative analysis.

SECTION C – Application & Higher-Order Problems (35 Marks)

This section contains five groups of two choices each (Q3 to Q7).
Students must attempt ONE part from each question, where each question carries 7 marks.

The questions are designed to evaluate the student's ability to apply theoretical concepts to practical systems and real-world scenarios.

Topics covered:

Q3 – Engine & Gearbox Function OR Ignition System

Students explain how power is generated and transmitted or describe how ignition enables combustion.

Q4 – Major EHV Components

Focuses on battery, controller, and motor construction and working.

Q5 – Motor Sizing & Induction Motor Challenges

Evaluates understanding of performance requirements, EV range, and control issues in induction motor drives.

Q6 – Energy Storage Systems

Battery-based performance factors OR Supercapacitor characteristics.

Q7 – EV Maintenance OR Starting an EV Startup

Covers real-world EV issues, repair/maintenance challenges, or entrepreneurial considerations in EV technology.

OVERALL PURPOSE OF THE EXAM

This question paper aims to:

Assess basic, intermediate, and advanced knowledge of electric and hybrid vehicle engineering
Encourage students to understand environmental and technological aspects of EVs
Evaluate analytical skills in comparing systems, explaining working principles, and solving practical design-related problems
Prepare students for future work in EV technology, sustainable mobility, and automotive innovation