Evolving the Drive: Integrating Electric Vehicle Technologies with AI in Automotive Engineering Courses

This paper aims on a transformative journey through the evolution of Automotive Engineering course. This course is traditionally taught for Internal Combustion (IC) engines, however, with fast growing industry of Electric Vehicles (EV), it is necessary that we educate our student before they enter the vehicle industry. This reimagined course navigates beyond the conventional boundaries, embracing the dynamic landscape of EV technologies, all while integrating the prowess of Artificial Intelligence (AI). The course will begin with a solid foundation in traditional automotive engineering principles, delving into the intricacies of internal combustion engines and mastering the nuances of vehicle dynamics. Transitioning seamlessly, the course unfolds into the realm of EVs, where AI becomes the orchestrator of electric powertrains and the autonomy of vehicles. Each topic, from steering systems to braking systems, and from engines to gears, transmissions, aerodynamics, suspension, and overall vehicle performance, is approached with a dual perspective. This approach bridges the gap between time-tested principles and the cutting-edge technologies that define the automotive landscape of tomorrow. The course, inherently project-based, pioneers a pedagogical approach that introduces each subject through the lens of software incorporation and collaborative teamwork among students. A detailed exploration will be presented for each outlines subject, shedding light on its intricacies and unveiling unique assignments. What sets this course apart is its continuous thread of connection to AI, illuminating the relevance of advanced technology at every step. Automotive Engineering stands as an elective course, drawing an annual cohort of approximately 25-30 students during the spring semester, comprising both undergraduate and graduate-level enthusiasts of automotive engineering. The course attracts individuals genuinely passionate about delving into automotive engineering concentrations. With a focus on the intersection of theoretical knowledge and practical industry applications, each assignment within the course serves as a narrative thread, illustrating the profound impact of AI on the dynamic canvas of the automotive landscape. Through this immersive experience, the aim is to equip students with the skills and insights necessary to navigate and excel in their future careers within the automotive realm.