It might be surprising to learn that the concept of electric vehicles (EVs) is hardly new.

“The idea of an electric car goes back over a hundred years,” explained John Miles, global business leader for electric vehicle and battery at Rockwell Automation. “EVs were very popular before internal combustion engines were even invented. The only problem was, they were extremely unsafe.”

The safety issue is a challenge that is beginning to be solved by a variety of automakers. Recently, Rockwell took a further step into the EV space as well, with the establishment of its Electric Vehicle Innovation Center. Located within the company’s Information Solutions development facility in San Jose, California, the center utilizes augmented and virtual reality modeling to provide an environment for learning new technologies and standards. The overarching goal is to help both startups and established manufacturers get EVs delivered to market more quickly, with less risk and at lower cost than before.

Inside Rockwell's EV Innovation Center. Source: Rockwell AutomationRockwell has relied on collaboration with a number of partners to build the center. These include PTC, which powers the software solution FactoryTalk InnovationSuite; Eagle Technologies, for a battery pack assembly machine; and FANUC, for robot technologies. Also involved are turnkey assembly line builder Hirata, for an assembly cell to demonstrate electric drive unit assembly and testing; and Teamtechnik, for functional testing to confirm performance. Rockwell’s own Emulate 3D simulation software helps to prototype and test machines prior to building.

According to John Kacsur, vice president for automotive and tire industries at Rockwell Automation, the company has already successfully designed, installed and commissioned over 4,000 automotive manufacturing projects. Kacsur added that the new EV Innovation Center supports digitization efforts not only for auto and tire customers, but for all industries.

As seen in the video, customers visiting the center can experience live manufacturing demonstrations, hands-on trials utilizing new technology and events showcasing collaboration with industry experts and Rockwell Automation partners. To learn more, visit Rockwell Automation online.