Wireless Battery Management System: A Comprehensive Review

Abstract

Wireless Battery Management Systems (WBMS) are gaining momentum as a breakthrough solution for electric vehicles (EVs), providing a viable alternative to traditional wired architectures. By eliminating complex cabling, WBMS lowers vehicle weight, streamlines pack assembly, and enhances flexibility and reliability. This paper reviews the essential building blocks of WBMS, its operating principles, and the wireless protocols that enable secure communication between battery modules and the controller. It also highlights the system’s benefits and current challenges, while emphasizing future directions such as integration with cloud platforms, AI-enabled health prediction, hybrid communication models, and advanced security frameworks. The findings suggest that WBMS should not be viewed merely as a hardware shift but as a foundation for next-generation, intelligent, and sustainable EV energy platforms [1],[2],[7].

Introduction

The growing adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) demands more efficient battery management. Traditional wired Battery Management Systems (BMS) are limited by bulky wiring, increased cost, and complexity. Wireless Battery Management Systems (WBMS) offer a modern solution by using secure, low-latency wireless communication to monitor battery parameters like voltage, temperature, and state-of-charge (SOC), improving EV efficiency, safety, and flexibility.

Key Features and Advantages of WBMS:

• Reduced Weight & Complexity: Eliminates heavy wiring harnesses, improving EV range and simplifying design.

• Scalability & Modularity: Easily supports swappable or second-life battery packs.

• Improved Safety & Reliability: Fewer mechanical connections reduce failure points.

• Real-Time Monitoring: Supports cloud connectivity and predictive diagnostics.

• Cost Efficiency: Lower manufacturing and maintenance costs.

Challenges:

• Electromagnetic Interference (EMI)

• Cybersecurity vulnerabilities

• Need for compliance with functional safety standards (e.g., ISO 26262)

• Lack of global standardization

Communication Technologies in WBMS:

Emerging Trends and Research Directions:

1. Cloud & IoT Integration: Enables remote diagnostics, software updates, and fleet analytics.

2. AI/ML Applications: Enhances accuracy in SOC/SOH estimation and anomaly detection.

3. Modular & Swappable Batteries: Supports second-life and shared mobility applications.

4. Cybersecurity Measures: Implementation of encryption, secure protocols, and compliance with ISO/SAE 21434.

5. Standardization Efforts: Evolving standards (ISO 26262, ISO 15118) ensure interoperability.

6. Energy Harvesting: Reduces sensor power needs via thermal/vibration-based power sources.

7. Digital Twin Technology: Real-time virtual models of battery systems enable predictive monitoring and enhanced safety.

Conclusion

Wireless Battery Management Systems mark a significant step forward in EV technology by eliminating traditional wiring, reducing system weight, and promoting modularity. When combined with AI, cloud platforms, and IOT, these systems become more than just monitoring tools—they evolve into enablers of intelligent, connected mobility. Although challenges such as EMI, cyber security risks, and the absence of unified standards remain, ongoing research and industrial adoption are steadily addressing them. With major automakers [3],[7],[8] already deploying WBMS in production models, it is clear that this technology will play a central role in shaping the next generation of safe, efficient, and sustainable electric vehicles [9],[10],[11],[12].

References

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Copyright

Copyright © 2025 Karthikesh Haridoss, V Sujishri, T. Nitya Sri. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.