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Checking What’s Under the Hood

Q: Shouldn’t this be an AC/DC converter?
Stephen Rusk, Elkin, a member of Surry-Yadkin EMC

A: Thank you for the question — the simple answer is that this is not a mistake. DC/DC converters are used to change voltages for different needs in the system (such as a higher voltage for the electric motor or lower voltage for electrical accessories). Without such a converter, the modern EV wouldn’t be possible! You can learn more about that online, or (PDF) if you want to get really techy.

While there is also AC to DC conversion taking place, this is handled by the onboard charger. I hope this helps!

About the Author

Pat Keegan is a regular contributor of Carolina Country’s Energy Sense column

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