Unveiled at electronica 2016, in Munich, Germany, the concept car was developed by Linear’s design partner Lion Smart. It combines its battery stack monitors with SmartMesh wireless mesh networking products in a BMW i3. It can be used to replace the traditional wired connections between the battery packs and the battery management system.

The demonstration represents a significant breakthrough that offers the potential for improved reliability, lower cost and weight, and reduced wiring complexity for large multicell battery stacks for electric and hybrid/electric vehicles, says the company.

The LTC6811 can measure up to 12 series-connected battery cell voltages with better than 0.04% accuracy.

SmartMesh embedded wireless networks deliver above 99.999% reliable connectivity in harsh environments, says the company, by employing path and frequency diversity. In addition to improving reliability by creating multiple points of redundant connectivity, the wireless mesh network enables additional BMS capability.

Wireless connectivity enables battery modules to be placed with more flexibility, and makes possible the installation of sensors in locations previously unsuitable for a vehicle’s wiring harness. Wireless sensors, such as current and temperature monitors, can be integrated, offering the potential for synchronising measurements with cell voltages.