Electric vehicle - Encoders for EV batteries and traction motors

The rapid growth of electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing is transforming the automotive industry. To meet increasing demand, EV battery production must scale significantly. Encoders play a critical role in this transformation.

The vital role of encoders in EV production


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Why use encoders in EV battery and traction motor production?


Precise motion control is essential in electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing. In battery cell production, encoders enable accurate alignment, speed regulation and inspection, helping to maximise yield and quality. In traction motor production, they provide real-time rotor position feedback for efficient torque control and energy optimisation.

EV battery cell production


EV battery manufacturing involves highly automated processes such as stacking, winding, welding, inspection, calendaring, and slitting.

These processes require precise synchronisation, high-speed motion control, and repeatable accuracy to ensure consistent cell quality and production yield.

Encoders play a vital role in EV battery manufacturing by providing accurate position feedback, speed control, and directional precision throughout the production line. These capabilities directly support tight process tolerances, reduce scrap, and maximise throughput.


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Batteries from an electric car

Stacking - Encoders for precise alignment 


Stacking machines require micron-level alignment of electrodes and separators to ensure uniformity in battery cell structure.

This is especially critical in pouch cell and prismatic cell formats, where misalignment can lead to thermal runaway risks or reduced energy density.

Application requirements:
  • High-speed synchronisation of multiple stacking heads
  • Precise linear positioning for electrode placement
  • Instant position feedback to reduce downtime

➤ Encoders for precise alignment in stacking


Renishaw’s RESOLUTE™ true-absolute encoder delivers ultra-precise alignment capabilities that ensure repeatable stacking, faster cycle times, and higher yield in battery cell production. 

Key performance features include:
  • Resolution down to 1 nm for ultra-fine alignment
  • Instant position acquisition at power-up, eliminating the need for referencing, ideal for multi-head stacking systems
  • Low SDE (±40 nm) and <10 nm RMS jitter for smooth motion and accurate placement
  • Compatibility with mainstream controllers and drivers, support most of the industry standard communication protocols

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EV battery cell - Pocket stacking in lithium-ion battery cell production.jpg

Pocket stacking in lithium-ion battery cell production


Winding - Encoders for stability and speed


Winding processes for cylindrical and prismatic cells involve wrapping thin electrode foils with high tension control. Any deviation in speed or position can cause wrinkles, misalignment, or material damage.

Application requirements:
  • High-speed rotary motion with precise angular feedback
  • Stable velocity control to maintain foil tension
  • Compact integration with DDR motors

➤ Encoders for stability and speed in winding


Renishaw’s RESOLUTE™ true-absolute encoder ensures stable winding, minimal foil damage, and consistent cell geometry, even at high production speeds during battery winding processes.

Key performance features include:
  • 1 nm resolution and speeds up to 100 m/s
  • Compact profile suitable for use with DDR motors
  • Low jitter and SDE for smooth, ripple-free motion
  • Non-contact design, reducing wear and maintenance

EV battery production - Winding.jpg
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The winding process in EV battery cell production involves rolling the anode, cathode, and separator together


Welding - Encoders for reliability


Laser and ultrasonic welding in EV battery assembly require precise path control to ensure clean, burr-free welds. Inaccurate motion can lead to weak joints, battery failure, or safety hazards.

Application requirements:
  • High-speed, small-radius arc control
  • Robust operation in dusty, high-temperature environments
  • Consistent velocity and position feedback

➤ Encoders for stability and speed in welding


The LA12 magnetic encoder enables reliable weld quality, reduced rework, and long-term durability of battery modules.

Key performance features include:
  • True-absolute position feedback for real-time control
  • IP67-sealed readhead for protection against coolant, dust, and debris
  • Resolution up to 0.244 µm for fine motion control
  • Magnetic sensing for resilience in harsh conditions

EV battery production - Welding.jpg
EV battery production line.jpg


Inspection - Encoders for accuracy


Inline inspection systems must detect micron-level defects in electrodes, tabs, and welds without slowing down production. This demands high-speed scanning with stable motion control.

Application requirements:
  • Low noise and SDE for accurate image capture
  • High-resolution feedback for precise positioning of sensors
  • Fast, repeatable motion to maintain throughput

➤ Encoders for accuracy in inspection


Renishaw’s RESOLUTE™ true-absolute encoder enables early defect detection, reduced scrap, and higher production efficiency in EV battery inspection.

Key performance features include:
  • ±40 nm SDE and <10 nm RMS jitter for ultra-smooth motion
  • True-absolute feedback for immediate readiness
  • High-speed compatibility with vision systems and inspection gantries
  • Position checking algorithm ensures correct position data

EV battery production - Inspection.jpg
EV battery cell production - production line.jpg

Not sure which encoder suits you?


Encoders for EV traction motor control


Traction motors in EVs require real-time rotor position and velocity feedback to control torque, efficiency, and thermal performance. Space constraints and harsh environments add to the challenge.

Application requirements:
  • Compact, lightweight encoders for integration in motor housings
  • High-speed operation with minimal latency
  • Robust sealing against oil, dust, and vibration

➤ Encoders for EV traction motor control


The RM16 incremental and absolute encoder ensures precise torque regulation, energy efficiency, and long-term reliability in EV drivetrains.

Key performance features include:
  • 16 mm diameter for tight spaces
  • Sealed, non-contact magnetic design for durability
  • Incremental and absolute output options
  • High-speed rotary feedback for dynamic motor control

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Cutaway view of an electric vehicle’s motor


What to consider when selecting encoder systems for EVs?


The table below outlines the key factors typically evaluated when choosing an encoder system for electric vehicle applications. These factors include encoder performance, environment conditions, installation requirements, and other relevant considerations.

Electric vehicles

Performance

✔ Resolution
✔ Rotary range
✔ Speed
✔ Controller input frequency

Environment

✔ Temperature
✔ Humidity
✔ Vibration
✔ Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC)
✔ IP rating

Installation

✔ Size
✔ Ride height tolerance
✔ Yaw / pitch / roll

Others

✔ Analogue / digital
✔ Interpolation clock frequency
✔ Alarm type
✔ Automotive certificate



Got questions? Let us help you choose!

Encoder success stories - Automotive

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Reliable operation, race after race

Salakazi Racing has equipped its dragster with an automatic three disc, four-stage clutch fitted with a digital controller. The pre-programmed controller engages the clutch when the rider snaps open the throttle - that's where the Renishaw RM22 encoders with their ability to monitor up to 30,000 rpm come into play. 


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We've located the magnetic actuator directly on the end of the shaft. The encoder body is on the other side, in the clutch housing. I honestly think that only a space rocket would be a tougher environment for the encoder.

Salakazi (Finland) Close quotation mark


The RM22 is a compact, high-speed rotary magnetic encoder designed for use in harsh environments. The non-contact two part design removes the need for seals or bearings ensuring long-term reliability and simple installation.

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Motorsport - securing pole position


For customers in elite motorsport and the automotive sector, Dynisma's motion generator accurately simulates motion cues in minute detail to provide a totally immersive driving experience. The motion generator is also designed for vehicle dynamics testing and NVH (noise, vibration, and harshness) applications in automotive development.

Dynisma selected the LA11 absolute magnetic linear encoder from Renishaw associate company RLS, to enable precise position control of the belt-driven actuators that drive the a low-frequency platform responsible for large movements (excursions).


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The LA11 was ideal because it minimised our space requirements by producing both absolute and incremental signals from one readhead and scale tape.

We have a very strong working relationship with Renishaw and RLS. We have also received excellent product selection help and technical support from both businesses.

Dynisma (UKClose quotation mark




Recommended encoder solutions

Electric vehicles

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For electric vehicles (EVs)

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RESOLUTE™ true-absolute encoder 

The true-absolute encoder with a high-speed fine-resolution position measurement system. Position is acquired immediately on start-up without requiring any motion, offering smooth velocity control and dependable positional stability. Available with linear and rotary scales with a variety of serial interfaces.

High speed

Excellent dirt immunity

Low SDE

Low jitter

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ATOM™ miniature optical encoder

The miniature optical incremental linear and rotary encoder system offers innovative design combining miniaturisation with leading-edge signal stability, dirt immunity and reliability.

✔ Miniature

Advanced signal stability

Dirt immunity

✔ Reliability


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QUANTiC™ incremental encoder

Integrates proven filtering optics and interpolation technology into a super-compact, analogue or digital incremental open optical encoder, with wide installation tolerances and built-in calibration functions.

✔ Wide installation tolerances

Dirt immunity

High performance

✔ Robust

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LA12 absolute magnetic encoder

Designed for motion control applications as a position and velocity control loop feedback element. LA12’s readhead is sealed to IP67 providing reliable operation with resolutions up to 0.244 µm and supports Mitsubishi, Yaskawa and Fanuc serial communication.

✔ True absolute system

Robust design and great EMC compatibility

Suitable for highly dynamic control loops

✔ Resistant to oils, coolants, and grease

RM16 incremental and absolute encoder

A compact, sealed, miniature, high speed rotary magnetic encoder designed for use in space limited applications. The encoder body is just 16 mm in diameter in aluminium housing.

✔ Super small size

Non-contact, frictionless design

High speed

RoHS compliant

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OnAxis™ encoder modules

Rotary magnetic encoder modules consist of a magnet and a separate sensor board. A wide range of package configurations makes them ideal for integration into original equipment manufacturer (OEM) systems.

✔ Simple installation

Low maintenance

High reliability

Low cost for OEM integration

Speak to out manufacturing consultants

Looking for a deeper dive into success stories?


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Case Studies

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