Units / MEC3821
MEC3821 · Introduction to electric vehicle technology
2026 Handbook6 credit pointsLevel 3Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering
Last checked: 23 Aug 2026 UTCOverview
You will be familiarised with the electromechanical components of electric vehicles as you learn how to apply mechanical principles to develop a dynamic model of an electric vehicle. Various types of motors, drivetrains, batteries and management systems will be examined. You will also learn how to integrate these elements into a vehicle's drivetrain.
Areas of study: Minor: Electric vehicle technology Minor: Sustainable energy transition Minor: Internet of Things (IoT)
Offerings
| Campus | Teaching period | Mode |
|---|---|---|
| Malaysia | First semester | Teaching activities are on-campus (ON-CAMPUS) |
Assessment
The Handbook lists an examination for this unit.
| # | Assessment | Type | Weight | Hurdle |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Weekly assignments | Written | 20% | Threshold |
| 2 | Mid-term test | Quiz / Test | 10% | Threshold |
| 3 | Laboratory activities and reports | Written | 20% | Threshold |
| 4 | Final assessment | Examination | 50% | Threshold |
Continuous assessments: 50% Final assessment: 50% This unit contains hurdle requirements that you must achieve to be able to pass the unit. You are required to achieve at least 45% in the total continuous assessment component and at least 45% in the final assessment component. The consequence of not achieving a hurdle requirement is a fail grade (NH) and a maximum mark of 45 for the unit.
Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.
Requisites
prerequisite
- ENG1013 — Engineering smart systems
Learning outcomes
- Derive models that govern dynamic performance of an automobile based on general principles of mechanics.
- Determine the specification of an electric vehicle drivetrain based on the provided performance targets.
- Appraise different battery technologies and battery management systems for application in a passenger vehicle.
- Identify safety risks associated with high voltage electrical transmission in electric vehicle drivetrains.
Workload
The minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of 3-6 hours of scheduled learning activities and 6-9 hours of independent study per week. Scheduled activities may include a combination of teacher-directed learning, peer-directed learning and online engagement. Independent study may include associated readings, assessment and preparation for scheduled activities.
| Activity | Duration |
|---|---|
| Workshops | 24 hours |
| Laboratories | 9 hours |
| Practical activities | 18 hours |
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