The global automotive industry is undergoing a seismic shift toward new energy vehicles (NEVs) and autonomous driving (AD) technologies. At the heart of this transformation lies electromagnet technology, which enables critical functions ranging from battery management to precision braking. With the NEV market projected to reach $1.5 trillion by 2030 and autonomous vehicles (AVs) expected to account for 12% of car sales by 2035, the demand for advanced electromagnet is surging. This blog explores how electromagnets are driving innovation in these sectors, supported by real-world applications, technical challenges, and market insights.
1. Electromagnet in New Energy Vehicle (NEV) Powertrains
1.1 Battery Management Systems (BMS)
Modern NEVs rely on electromagnets for efficient battery management:
- Contactors: High-voltage DC contactors (e.g., 800V systems) use electromagnetic actuators to safely connect/disconnect battery packs, handling currents up to 500A.
- Thermal Management: Electromagnetic valves regulate coolant flow in liquid-cooled batteries, maintaining optimal temperatures (±2°C).
Case Study 1:
Tesla’s Model S Plaid employs TE Connectivity’s EV200AAANA contactors, featuring silver-nickel oxide contacts and electromagnetic actuators capable of 1,000,000+ cycles.
1.2 Electric Motor Control
Permanent magnet synchronous motors (PMSMs) dominate NEV traction systems:
- Rotor Magnetization: Electromagnets generate pulsed fields up to 3 Tesla to align NdFeB magnets during manufacturing.
- Demagnetization Detection: Hall-effect sensors monitor magnet health, triggering alerts if field strength drops by >5%.
Example:
BYD’s e-Platform 3.0 uses AI-driven electromagnetic sensors to predict PMSM degradation, extending motor life by 20%.
1.3 Regenerative Braking Systems
Electromagnetic retarders recover kinetic energy during deceleration:
- Eddy Current Brakes: Electromagnets induce opposing magnetic fields in rotating discs, converting motion into electricity.
- Efficiency Gains: Systems like Bosch’s iBooster recover 15–25% of energy in urban driving cycles.
Case Study 2:
Rivian’s R1T pickup uses regenerative braking electromagnets to achieve 70% energy recovery, adding 20 miles of range per charge in city traffic.
2. Charging Infrastructure: Electromagnet Enabling Rapid Power Transfer
2.1 High-Power Charging Connectors
Electromagnetic locks ensure safe, reliable EV charging:
- Automatic Latching: Solenoid actuators engage/disengage charging plugs in <1 second (e.g., CCS Combo connectors).
- Overload Protection: Current sensors trigger electromagnetic disconnects at 150% rated loads.
Case Study 3:
ABB’s Terra HP charger uses IP67-rated electromagnetic locks to withstand dust and moisture at 350 kW charging stations.
2.2 Wireless Charging Systems
Inductive charging relies on precisely tuned electromagnetic coils:
- Alignment Assistance: Electromagnetic actuators adjust coil positions with ±5 mm accuracy.
- Efficiency Optimization: Litz wire coils achieve 92–95% efficiency at 85 kHz.
Breakthrough:
WiTricity’s DRIVE 11 system, deployed in Shanghai’s taxis, uses 11 kW electromagnetic pads to charge vehicles parked 15 cm above ground.
3. Autonomous Driving: Precision and Safety Through Electromagnets
3.1 LiDAR and Sensor Actuation
Electromagnets enable real-time adjustments in ADAS sensors:
- MEMS Mirrors: Electromagnetic actuators tilt micro-mirrors in LiDAR systems at 1,000 Hz for 360° scanning.
- Radar Calibration: Stepper motors with electromagnetic clutches maintain beam alignment in adverse weather.
Case Study 4:
Luminar’s Iris LiDAR, used in Volvo’s EX90, employs electromagnetic MEMS mirrors to achieve 0.05° angular resolution—critical for pedestrian detection at 250 meters.
3.2 Brake-by-Wire Systems
Electromagnetic actuators replace hydraulic systems for faster, safer braking:
- Response Time: Continental’s MK C1 system achieves 150 ms activation—50% faster than hydraulic brakes.
- Redundancy: Dual-coil electromagnets ensure failsafe operation in ISO 26262 ASIL-D systems.
Example:
Tesla’s Cybertruck uses Brembo’s Brake-by-Wire with electromagnetic valve actuators for consistent performance in off-road conditions.
3.3 Steering and Suspension
- Steer-by-Wire: ZF’s ReAX system uses electromagnetic torque overlay for haptic feedback in autonomous mode.
- Active Suspension: ClearMotion’s road-active suspension employs electromagnetic dampers to adjust stiffness in 10 ms.
Case Study 5:
Mercedes-Benz’s Magic Body Control in the EQS SUV uses electromagnetic dampers to scan roads ahead and adjust suspension, reducing cabin vibrations by 60%.
4. Technical Challenges and Solutions
4.1 High-Temperature Resilience
Challenge: Underhood temperatures in NEVs can exceed 150°C, degrading coil insulation.
Solutions:
- Polyimide-Encapsulated Coils: Withstand 200°C continuously.
- Active Cooling: Microchannel heat sinks lower coil temperatures by 40°C.
4.2 EMI Mitigation
Challenge: Electromagnetic interference disrupts ADAS sensor signals.
Solutions:
- Mu-Metal Shielding: Reduces stray fields by 30 dB.
- Twisted Pair Wiring: Minimizes noise in CAN FD networks.
4.3 Energy Efficiency
Challenge: Power-hungry electromagnets reduce EV range.
Solutions:
- Latching Mechanisms: Zero-power hold using hybrid permanent-electromagnetic designs.
- PWM Control: Reduces hold current by 70% in door latches and sunroof actuators.
5. Case Studies: Electromagnets in Action
5.1 GM’s Ultium Platform
GM’s next-gen EVs use WABCO’s electromagnetic valves in their thermal management systems, improving heat pump efficiency by 35%.
5.2 Waymo’s Autonomous Taxis
Waymo’s Jaguar I-PACE fleet employs electromagnetic brake actuators for smooth, algorithmic-driven stops, achieving <0.1g jerk ratings.
5.3 NIO’s Battery Swap Stations
NIO’s 3rd-gen Power Swap stations use electromagnetic alignment systems to position batteries with 0.2 mm precision, completing swaps in 3 minutes.
6. Future Trends: Electromagnets in 2030 and Beyond
- Integrated Magneto-Thermal Materials: All-in-one coils with built-in cooling channels for 500 kW+ charging.
- AI-Optimized Actuators: Neural networks predict wear and adjust electromagnetic forces in real time.
- Sustainable Production: Recyclable coils using bio-based resins and reclaimed copper.
Electromagnet—The Silent Enablers of Automotive Evolution
As NEVs and autonomous driving redefine mobility, electromagnets are emerging as unsung heroes—ensuring safety, efficiency, and reliability in every electron and algorithm. For automakers and suppliers, partnering with an agile electromagnet manufacturer isn’t just a technical choice; it’s a strategic imperative.
At SF, we’re pioneering next-gen electromagnet solutions tailored to the unique demands of electric and autonomous vehicles. From ultra-compact LiDAR actuators to megawatt charging systems, we’re powering the future, one magnetic field at a time.
About SF electromagnets factory
Shengfeng Electromagnet Co., Ltd. was established in 2015 and is located in the Xiansha Industrial Park with beautiful scenery and convenient transportation. The company covers an area of 16000 square meters and has modern production plants, advanced production equipment and a high-quality technical team. Since its establishment, we have always adhered to the corporate philosophy of “innovation, quality, and service”, focusing on the research and development and production of electromagnets, constantly promoting product upgrades and technological progress, and providing customers with the best quality products and services.
Why choose SF electromagnet
HIGH END QUALITY:As the best solenoid electromagnet manufacturer in china, our QC team will ensure every single product you receive are best quality. We have professional quality testing machine.
PRODUCT DESIGN:Our sampling department has complete process of making drawings into reality. We also improve your product design based on our years of working experience.Tell us what you think.
STABLE DELIVERY TIME:As the best electromagnet manufacturer & supplier,we have sufficient manufacturing capacity, big orders won’t beat us, we can still deliver the order for you in time.
BEST PRICE:We are source factory of electromagnet and the best solenoid manufacturer in China, that’s why we can provide high quality bags with best price.
PRECISE MANAGEMENT:Nothing can be achieved if we don’t implement precise management. We are a company with complete management system.
7-24 SERVICE:As the best solenoid manufacturer, 24-7 immediate response: We’ll receive your feedback to make us a better supplier. Contact WhatsApp +86 18902611680
FAQs of electromagnet
We are a Chinese top electromagnet manufacturer and our factory is located in Dongguan. Welcome to visit our factory!
We pecialize in the design and production of high quality electromagnet,solenoid valve,such as rotary solenoid, bistable solenoids, latching solenoids, open frame solenoids, tubular solenoids, self-holding solenoid
•Of course, usually we will provide free samples, and you only need to cover the freight. For custom electromagnet samples, pls send your requirements to us for checking the sample cost.
• It takes about 7 days for sample production.
Yes, we provide free design services, structural design and simple graphic design.
Sure. We can do any electromagnet with your design. Now we open a ODM solenoid which is for small quantity from 100pc to 500pc,but you can still have your own logo.
Depending on the order quantity and production details, it will take about 15 to 20 days.
Always a pre-production sample before mass production; Always final Inspection before shipment
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technological innovation, the prices of some of our products are extremely competitive, please contact us to quote.
