Course Review: Electric Vehicle Systems and Technologies Specialization by Prasanth Kumar Palani (Coursera)

Learn how electric vehicles work, from core systems to charging, batteries, and autonomy, with hands-on projects focused on real-world EV design skills today.

Instructor: Prasanth Kumar Palani

Course Overview

The Electric Vehicle Systems and Technologies Specialization offers a clear and practical guide to how modern electric vehicles work. It covers core EV systems, batteries, power electronics, charging, thermal control, and safety. Learners also explore how EVs connect with the grid and support clean energy goals. This program is designed for engineers, EV fans, and learners who want job-ready skills in electric mobility. Each course uses short lessons, simulators, and applied projects to explain real EV challenges. You learn how to improve range, manage heat, design charging hubs, and use smart software tools. Advanced topics include vehicle-to-grid systems and autonomous EV technology. By the end, learners gain hands-on skills that support careers in EV design, energy systems, and sustainable transport.

Duration: About 4 weeks, with around 10 hours of study each week. The schedule is flexible. You can learn at your own pace.

Modules: 12 courses in total. Each course covers a key area of electric vehicle systems. Topics move from basics to advanced EV and autonomy skills.

Tutor: Prasanth Kumar Palani. He is an experienced instructor in electric vehicle systems. The course is offered through Coursera.


Pros & Cons

👍Pros

  • ✅ Covers the full EV journey, from basics to autonomy. The content is wide but well linked. This helps learners see the big picture.
  • ✅ Includes hands-on projects and simulators. These help turn theory into real skills. It suits learners who want practical knowledge.
  • ✅ Flexible schedule with short courses. You can study at your own pace. This works well for working professionals.

👎Cons

  • ❌ Not ideal for complete beginners. Basic electrical knowledge is helpful. New learners may need extra study.
  • ❌ Each course is short. Some topics feel brief. Advanced learners may want more depth.
  • ❌ No university credit is offered. The certificate is professional, not academic. This may matter to some learners.

🧑‍🎓 Who is This Course Best For?

This course is ideal for anyone looking to understand and work with electric vehicles. It covers core systems, batteries, charging, software, and autonomy. Learners gain practical skills and knowledge to advance in sustainable mobility and EV technology careers.

  • Engineering students: Learn practical EV systems knowledge that complements your studies. Apply concepts in real-world projects and simulations.
  • Automotive professionals: Upgrade skills in electric vehicle design, thermal management, and charging systems. Stay competitive as the industry shifts to EVs.
  • Technology enthusiasts: Explore EV innovation and autonomy. Understand how EVs work and how emerging technologies shape the future of transport.
  • Energy sector specialists: Gain insights on vehicle-to-grid systems and sustainable energy integration. Apply EV knowledge to smart grids and renewable energy projects.
  • Software and embedded systems developers: Learn EV software integration, diagnostics, and control strategies. Improve skills in embedded systems and vehicle automation.
  • Environmental professionals: Understand EV impact on climate and sustainable development. Learn strategies for reducing emissions and promoting green mobility.
  • EV entrepreneurs and innovators: Explore charging hub design, efficiency optimization, and market trends. Develop solutions for electric mobility challenges.
  • Career switchers: Build skills for roles in EV design, energy systems, or sustainable transport. Gain knowledge and certification to enter a growing field.


📘 What You’ll Learn

In this specialization, students will gain a deep understanding of electric vehicle systems and technologies. The course covers everything from basic EV components to advanced topics like battery management, charging infrastructure, and autonomous systems. Learners will develop practical skills through hands-on projects, simulations, and real-world problem solving. By the end, students will be able to design efficient EV systems, optimize performance, and contribute to sustainable mobility solutions.

  • Understand core electric vehicle components and how they work together.
  • Analyze EV performance, range, and energy efficiency factors.
  • Design and optimize thermal management systems for vehicles.
  • Plan and implement EV charging infrastructure, including smart and V2G systems.
  • Explore power electronics, inverters, and control strategies for EVs.
  • Learn about different battery chemistries, management systems, and lifespan optimization.
  • Integrate software and embedded systems for diagnostics and vehicle control.
  • Examine autonomous EV technologies and sensor systems for safe driving.
  • Apply environmental and sustainability principles to EV design and energy use.
  • Gain hands-on experience through projects, simulators, and data-driven decision making.

❓FAQs

This course is for engineers, EV learners, and tech fans. It suits those who want skills in electric mobility and clean transport.

The full program takes about 4 weeks. Most learners study around 10 hours per week.

Yes, you earn a shareable Coursera certificate. You can add it to LinkedIn or your resume.

Some basic knowledge of electrical systems helps. You do not need prior EV work experience.

Ready to Start Learning?

Audit courses for free or enroll to earn the full specialization certificate