Electrified Vehicle Technologies Final
Certification Exam (SSTE01WB) - 2025/2026
Edition | Verified and Accurate Q&A
What is the primary reason for using an electric motor in place of an internal combustion engine (ICE) in
electric vehicles?
Electric motors offer higher efficiency, providing instant torque and reducing mechanical losses
compared to the more complex, slower-revving internal combustion engines.
What factors influence the charging time of a lithium-ion battery in an electric vehicle when using a Level
3 DC fast charger?
Charging time is influenced by the battery's state of charge (SOC), the charger’s maximum power
output, the battery's temperature, and its maximum charge rate.
How do the driving characteristics of a battery electric vehicle (BEV) differ from a plug-in hybrid electric
vehicle (PHEV) in terms of energy consumption during acceleration?
A BEV uses its electric motor exclusively for acceleration, leading to more efficient energy use
during low-speed maneuvers, while a PHEV relies on both the electric motor and the internal
combustion engine, causing higher energy consumption and increased emissions.
What are the key differences between solid-state batteries and lithium-ion batteries in terms of safety,
performance, and energy density?
Solid-state batteries offer improved safety due to their lack of liquid electrolytes, which reduces
the risk of fire and leakage. They also have higher energy density, faster charging rates, and longer
lifespans compared to traditional lithium-ion batteries.
In hybrid electric vehicles, what is the role of the motor generator unit (MGU) during deceleration and
how does it affect fuel economy?
During deceleration, the MGU operates as a generator, converting kinetic energy into electrical
energy to recharge the battery. This regenerative braking process improves fuel economy by reducing
reliance on the internal combustion engine for energy.
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, What is the primary reason for implementing an active thermal management system in electric vehicle
battery packs, and how does it affect the battery’s efficiency?
Active thermal management systems regulate the battery’s temperature, ensuring it operates
within an optimal range, which prevents overheating, reduces energy losses, and extends the battery’s
lifespan and overall efficiency.
How do fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) produce electricity, and what are the advantages of using
hydrogen as a fuel source compared to battery electric vehicles?
FCEVs use hydrogen fuel cells to combine hydrogen with oxygen from the air, generating
electricity to power an electric motor. The advantage of hydrogen over batteries is its higher energy
density, which allows for longer driving ranges and faster refueling times.
What are the key challenges in designing and integrating a bidirectional charging system for electric
vehicles, and how can these challenges be mitigated?
Bidirectional charging systems, which allow an EV to send power back to the grid, face challenges
in system complexity, safety (due to high-voltage systems), and communication between the grid and the
vehicle. These can be mitigated through standardized protocols, improved safety features, and
regulatory support.
How does the architecture of an electric vehicle (EV) differ from that of a traditional internal combustion
engine vehicle (ICEV) in terms of the propulsion system and power distribution?
EVs have a simpler propulsion system with an electric motor directly powering the wheels, while
ICEVs rely on an engine, transmission, and multiple mechanical components to transfer power to the
wheels. In EVs, power distribution is more direct, with fewer moving parts and greater energy efficiency.
How do the charging characteristics of a Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3 charger differ in terms of power
output and typical charging time, and what factors influence their efficiency?
Level 1 chargers provide low power (120V) and can take 12-24 hours to fully charge an EV. Level 2
chargers (240V) offer moderate power and can charge a vehicle in 4-8 hours, while Level 3 DC fast
chargers provide high power (typically 400V-800V) and can charge an EV to 80% in under 30 minutes.
Efficiency is affected by the vehicle's battery chemistry, temperature, and SOC.
What are the main types of electric drive systems used in electric vehicles, and what are the advantages
and limitations of each system?
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