Whitepaper

EMC Testing on Electric Vehicles

Published by Ametek CTS

This technical note from AMETEK CTS, authored by Thomas Handschin, provides an introductory overview of EMC testing requirements for electric vehicles, intended to accompany a webinar recording. It explains that EVs operate across three distinct electrical systems — low voltage (12/24/48V DC), high voltage (the traction system replacing the combustion engine), and AC mains (for battery charging) — and that the high-voltage system, while comprising relatively few components, poses the greatest EMC challenge. The document maps out the relevant standards landscape across all three domains, distinguishing between international regulations and OEM-specific manufacturer standards. For LV systems, ECE R-10 and the ISO series apply alongside a sprawling range of manufacturer tests. For HV components, the emerging ISO 21498 standard (supported by major automakers) and ISO DTS 7637-4 are highlighted, covering voltage variations, load dump immunity, ripple testing, and RF pulsed immunity up to 10 MHz. For AC charging, ECE Regulation 10 Revision 5 is identified as the dominant legally binding framework, incorporating IEC 61000 series tests for harmonics, flicker, surge, and burst. Test setup details and equipment requirements are provided for each domain, giving engineers practical guidance on what is needed to achieve compliance.