The growing demand for electric vehicles has highlighted the importance of quality in the production of electrical components in car manufacturers. These components are vital to ensure optimal and safe performance of electric vehicles. However, on the road to excellence, quality control professionals face challenges of titanic proportions. In this article, we will talk about the main quality failures that lurk in the inspection of electrical components in electric car manufacturers, as well as the most impactful challenges for specialists in quality assurance and supplier evaluation in the sector.

Unexpected electrical disconnections: a latent risk 

Unexpected electrical disconnections can result in critical system failures, endangering both the driver and passengers. Identifying and fixing these types of faults requires rigorous inspection and testing processes, as well as thorough monitoring throughout the production process.

Variability in battery quality

Batteries are the heart of electric vehicles, and their quality is critical to ensuring perfect performance and adequate range. Ensuring that each battery meets established performance standards is crucial to avoid premature failure or decreased storage capacity. In addition, the proper management of the life cycle of batteries and the implementation of effective recycling strategies are also aspects that must be considered.

Electromagnetic Compatibility Issues

Electromagnetic compatibility is an important aspect in the inspection of electrical components in electric car manufacturers. Electric vehicles contain a wide variety of electronic systems that can interfere with each other if not managed properly. This can result in malfunctions, system failures and affect vehicle safety.

The challenges for SQA (Service Quality Assurance) and SQE (Supplier Quality Engineer) in the sector:

a) Constant innovation: Just as, the automotive industry evolves at a rapid pace, and quality assurance and supplier evaluation professionals, so must they, they need to stay updated on the latest technologies and advances in the industry. This requires constant learning and adaptation as new electrical components and systems emerge in electric vehicles. In addition, they must be prepared to be execution agents during the implementation of new technologies, such as artificial intelligence and autonomous driving.

b) Compliance with regulations and standards: As is well known, the automotive industry is subject to strict regulations and standards in terms of safety and quality. Quality control professionals must ensure that electrical components comply with all applicable regulations, which may vary by geographic region. Keeping up with legal requirements and ensuring they are met at all stages of the production process is a constant challenge.

c) Supplier management: The quality of electrical components depends largely on suppliers. Quality assurance and supplier evaluation professionals must conduct a thorough evaluation of suppliers to ensure they meet established quality standards. This involves conducting audits, establishing follow-up and troubleshooting protocols, and maintaining constant communication with suppliers to address any deviations or quality failures.

d) Avoid obsolescence: In an environment of rapid technological evolution, electrical components can become obsolete in a short time. Quality control professionals must anticipate and address obsolescence risks, ensuring that the components used are durable and compatible with future technological upgrades. This requires strategic planning and close collaboration with product development and design departments.

The inspection of electrical components in electric car manufacturers is an essential process to guarantee quality vehicles. From preventing unexpected electrical disconnections to managing battery quality and electromagnetic compatibility, quality control professionals face multiple challenges. However, through a combination of rigorous testing, effective supplier management and adaptation to technological innovation, it is possible to overcome these difficulties and achieve excellence in the production of quality electric vehicle components.

Ultimately, the dedication and expertise of quality assurance and supplier evaluation professionals are critical to driving the continued evolution of the automotive industry and ensuring safe and reliable electric vehicles for future generations.

Exposing Electrical Failures:

Challenges for Quality Control Professionals in the Automotive Industry