DC-to-DC Converter

DC-to-DC converter is a power-electronics device that changes direct current from one voltage level to another. In a typical EV, the auxiliary DC/DC converter steps high-voltage power from the traction battery down to the low-voltage supply used by accessories and to recharge the auxiliary battery.

Important distinction

This is different from an inverter, which converts DC to AC for the traction motor, and from an on-board charger, which converts incoming AC to DC for charging. EV architectures can also use other DC/DC converters to boost or regulate voltage within traction or charging circuits, so the general term does not always mean the low-voltage auxiliary converter.

For the wider electrical context, see Battery Pack and Charging.

Related terms

• High-Voltage System
• On-Board Charger

Sources

• U.S. Department of Energy: How Do All-Electric Cars Work?
• U.S. Department of Energy: Power Electronics Research and Development