The Achiles Project: Advancements in electric vehicles (EV) technology, standards and collaboration

The global shift toward electric vehicles is driven by environmental concerns, economic
competitiveness, and the promise of smarter mobility. Despite significant progress, the deployment of
EVs faces technological and regulatory barriers. The Achiles project (2018-2022), led by Vrije
Universiteit Brussel (VUB), aimed to overcome these challenges and successfully improved EV
technology.

By project end, the Achiles vehicle was equipped with a newly designed e-drive with high heat
dissipation (Elaphe), a centralized computer platform (CCP) utilizing a multi-host approach and
deterministic ethernet switch (TTTech), a torque vectoring wheel concept (Tecnalia), and lightweight
wheel brake prototypes with fluid-free brake actuators (Continental). The approach was validated and
led to improved measurement techniques for prototype brake systems (Fraunhofer) and underwent a
preliminary safety concept analysis (Ikerlan and Idiada).

The novel wheel and e-braking concept aimed to reduce weight, increase energy recovery, cut
emissions, and enhance safety. The brake-by-wire system, designed for the AUDI Q2 BEV, achieved a
19kg weight reduction, decreased brake particle emissions, ensured ASIL D compliance, and provided
a consistent brake pedal feel. Continental further evolved the developed brake system, while VUB
upgraded Achiles powertrain models with Q2 components for educational use.

Previous regulatory gaps, such as standards not specifically addressing emerging technologies like
regenerative braking systems, were highlighted in the ‘Common Book’ published by Achiles within the
E-VOLVE framework in 2022. UN Regulation No. 13-H (2023) now includes specific requirements for
electric braking systems.

Dedicated to revolutionizing electric vehicle technology, Achiles established E-VOLVE in 2019, serving
as a collaborative platform for various EV-related projects. Considered as a good practice by the
European Commission in 2022, the Cluster, initially comprising six projects, has now grown to include
14 member projects under new leadership.

https://mobi.research.vub.be/epowers-research-group
https://www.h2020-achiles.eu/
https://evolvecluster.eu