Exploring the Thermal System of the Rivian R1T

💡The thermal system of the Rivian R1T utilizes off-the-shelf components for efficient cooling.

🔥The system generates heat for the battery through the refrigerant loop and waste heat from the motors.

🚗Coolant flows through the battery modules to ensure even cooling throughout.

⚡The ethylene glycol coolant is pumped directly into the motors and inverter to eliminate the need for a gear oil pump.

🌡️No PTC heater is used in the system, while the cabin cooling is achieved through a traditional AC compressor.

What components are used in the thermal system of the Rivian R1T?

—The thermal system includes pumps, chillers, valves, condensers, heat exchangers, and a PTC heater.

How does the coolant system cool the battery and the car's computer?

—The coolant system directly flows coolant through the battery modules and the car's computer to ensure efficient cooling.

How does the refrigerant system cool the cabin?

—The refrigerant system utilizes a traditional AC compressor and an evaporator to cool the cabin.

Why is the ethylene glycol coolant pumped directly into the motors?

—Pumping the coolant directly into the motors eliminates the need for a gear oil pump, making the system more cost-effective.

Does the system use a PTC heater?

—No, the system utilizes waste heat from the motors and the refrigerant loop to heat the battery.

00:01Introduction and overview of the thermal system of the Rivian R1T.

00:19Detailed explanation of the off-the-shelf components used in the system.

00:59Discussion of the coolant system and its role in cooling the battery and the car's computer.

01:29Explanation of the refrigerant system and how it cools the cabin.

02:11Insight into the direct flow of ethylene glycol coolant into the motors and the elimination of a gear oil pump.

02:43Overview of the system's heating capabilities and the absence of a PTC heater.