Electric Vehicle Pioneer Joins UC Merced Faculty
UC Merced’s electrical engineering program, though only a year old as a major, is already attracting significant talent and groundbreaking research. One of the latest additions is Professor Eric Cheng, renowned for his pioneering work in electric and autonomous vehicles.
Cheng, often referred to as “the father of the electric vehicle” in Hong Kong, brings a wealth of experience to UC Merced. In 2005, he played a pivotal role in the technological development of an EV company that was later acquired by a U.S. corporation in 2010. His expertise extends beyond electric vehicles; he’s also recognized for his contributions to anti-lock braking systems, active suspension systems, and super capacitors.
One of Cheng’s notable achievements is developing an innovative solar-powered air-conditioning system for vehicles. This system utilizes photovoltaic technology and intelligent power control to switch the air conditioner to solar energy when the gasoline engine is off. “Drivers of minibuses or taxis can now switch off the engine but continue to stay cool while waiting for passengers at the station,” Cheng told Asia Research News. “In fact, our system helps extend the air-conditioner operation for two more hours.”
Cheng’s current projects include ammonia-powered vehicles, which offer the potential for zero carbon emissions. He believes these vehicles could utilize a substance that might otherwise go to a landfill. “Ammonia is a safe and stable source of power,” he said.
For Cheng, joining UC Merced presents a unique opportunity: “With a new department, there’s a much better opportunity to develop my technology here.”
The electrical engineering major at UC Merced was established to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving technological landscape. Electricity is a vital component of everything from the power grid and smartphones to new vehicles. Students in the program gain a strong foundation in engineering and electricity while tackling real-world challenges.
These opportunities are multiplying rapidly, encompassing products ranging from rocket engines to medical devices. Other areas of focus include finding new ways to produce and store green energy and developing improved methods for energy transmission.
Electrical engineering is a growing field, currently accounting for 10% of all engineering degrees awarded in the United States, and that percentage is expected to continue rising. “We cannot use today’s thinking to think about the future job market,” Cheng observed. “This will be a major area of research for the next five to 50 years.”
While electric vehicles have gained mainstream acceptance, Cheng believes it’s still just the beginning. He’s excited to be at a university that emphasizes innovation in this area. “Right now, 3 percent of vehicles are EV,” Cheng said. “We need to push that to 50 percent in the next 10 to 20 years.”
