Product Overview

The Vehicle Control Unit (VCU) Lab by Decibels Lab is designed to support EV system-level testing and algorithm development. With both Black-Box (OEM-based, plug-and-play) and White-Box (open architecture, model-based development) options, this lab setup caters to both academic institutions and R&D environments seeking to explore and innovate in electric powertrain control.

These VCU solutions replicate real-world control and communication environments found in modern EVs, enabling practical exposure to CAN communication, drive cycles, energy management, and fault handling.

Product Variants & Specifications


Specification Black-Box Solution White-Box Solution
Product ID DB-VCU-BB-01 DB-VCU-WB-01
Product Variant Black-Box Vehicle Control Unit Lab White-Box Vehicle Control Unit Lab
System Architecture Closed system with pre-configured VCU and motor controller Open system with user-programmable VCU and full software interface
Motor 1000W Standalone Motor 1000W Standalone Motor
Motor Controller Advanced Motor Controller Advanced Motor Controller
Power Distribution Included Included
Battery System Battery + Smart CAN-based BMS Battery + Smart CAN-based BMS
Charging System CAN-based EV Smart Charger CAN-based EV Smart Charger
Vehicle Control Unit (VCU) Pre-programmed VCU Custom programmable VCU
Control Features • Charging Authentication
• Vehicle Mode Selection
• Safety Monitoring
• Current Control via Throttle		 • All features of Black-Box
• CAN-based integration
• Software control via MATLAB interface
User Controls Vehicle Key, Throttle, Brake & Mode Switches Vehicle Key, Throttle, Brake & Mode Switches
Communication Protocol CAN CAN
Software Compatibility Pre-configured diagnostic interface MATLAB-based control & test execution environment
Future Upgradability Not specified • Fuel Cell Powertrain
• Ethernet Vehicle Network
• 12V to 48V Transition
• ADAS Integration Capabilities

Experiments & Applications

Both VCU lab variants support extensive hands-on training and real-time system evaluation

  • Drive Cycle Simulation

    Test vehicle behavior under various real-world cycles.

  • Control Algorithm Tuning

    Modify and tune EV parameters like torque control, regen braking (White-Box).

  • CAN Communication & Diagnostics

    Simulate sensor/actuator communication and observe data flow.

  • Fault Injection & Handling

    Create, analyze, and resolve fault conditions in VCU systems.

  • Loopback Testing

    Perform hardware-in-the-loop testing (especially with White-Box VCU).