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Rio Hondo College logo
Rio Hondo College logo
Associate of Science Degree
Electric Vehicle and Fuel Cell Technology Technician

The Associate of Science in Electric Vehicle and Fuel Cell Technology Technician prepares students to address needs in the emerging field of servicing and diagnosing green vehicles, including electric, hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and fuel cell automobiles. Students need to apply for the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Light Duty/Hybrid/Electric Vehicle Specialist Test (L3) and pay all applicable fees to take the final ASE exam. This degree is intended to be the capstone of the Hybrid/Electric/Fuel Cell Program.

Please contact the Student Success Team for this program if you have any questions.

Apply Now!


Sample Education Plan

This sample education plan for the 2024-2025 catalog year represents one possible pathway through the program. Each university (UC, CSU, private, and others) has their own transfer requirements; please see a counselor to create an education plan that is customized to meet your needs. Additional course descriptions may be found in the College Catalog.
Select sample path/map:
CourseUnitsTypically Offered
1st Semester
AUTO 106 - Automotive Electrical Tools and Diagnostic ProceduresM3.0
AUTO 106 - Automotive Electrical Tools and Diagnostic Procedures (3.0 units)

(Formerly AUTOT 106)

Advisory:AUTO 101 or AUTO 103
Transfers to: CSU

This introductory course is designed to provide students with the fundamentals of the electrical systems of the 21st century automobile. Emphasis is placed on electrical fundamentals, symbols and circuit diagrams, batteries, starting, charging, ignition, and lighting systems. Students learn the proper use of automotive electrical tools and equipment and how to safely perform basic vehicle electrical repair and maintenance operations. Students also have the opportunity to perform minor repair work on their own vehicles to complete required tasks. This course is required for the General Service Technician Certificate of Achievement. It is designed to be a companion course to AUTO 101 and AUTO 103, and is one of the three prerequisite courses for AUTO 107. Students are encouraged to complete all three courses in order to obtain a firm foundation in this subject.

Select one: STAT C1000 / STAT C1000H / MATH 150 / FIN 101 (RHC GE 2)GE3.0†
STAT C1000 - Introduction to Statistics (formerly MATH 130) (4.0 units)

(Formerly MATH 012, MATH 130)

Advisory:Placement as determined by the college’s multiple measures assessment process or completion of a course taught at or above the level of intermediate algebra. ENGL C1000, READ 101
Transfers to: UC (*credit limit),CSU
(*Students will receive credit for only one of the following courses: STAT C1000, STAT C1000H)

This course is an introduction to statistical thinking and processes, including methods and concepts for discovery and decision-making using data. Topics include descriptive statistics; probability and sampling distributions; statistical inference; correlation and linear regression; analysis of variance, chi-squared, and t-tests; and application of technology for statistical analysis including the interpretation of the relevance of the statistical findings. Students apply methods and processes to applications using data from a broad range of disciplines.

STAT C1000H - Introduction to Statistics - Honors (formerly MATH 130H) (4.0 units)

Advisory:Placement as determined by the college’s multiple measures assessment process or completion of a course taught at or above the level of intermediate algebra. READ 101, ENGL C1000
Transfers to: UC (*credit limit), CSU
(*Students will receive credit for only one of the following courses: STAT C1000, STAT C1000H)

This course is an introduction to statistical thinking and processes, including methods and concepts for discovery and decision-making using data. Topics include descriptive statistics; probability and sampling distributions; statistical inference; correlation and linear regression; analysis of variance, chi-squared, and t-tests; and application of technology for statistical analysis including the interpretation of the relevance of the statistical findings. Students apply methods and processes to applications using data from a broad range of disciplines. This is an honors course. This course is recommended for students intending on participating in the Honors Transfer Program.

MATH 150 - Survey of Mathematics (3.0 units)

Prerequisite:Enrollment requires appropriate placement (based on high school GPA and/or other measures), or completion of an intermediate algebra course.
Transfers to: CSU, UC

In this course students will learn to read and understand quantitative information, solve practical problems, and make sound decisions using numbers. Topics include consumer applications, logic, probability, statistics, algebra, and geometry. This course is for students who need a quantitative reasoning course for graduation or transfer.

FIN 101 - Introduction to Financial Planning (3.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to read college-level texts.
Prerequisite:Enrollment requires appropriate placement (based on high school GPA and/or other measures), or completion of an elementary algebra course.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course provides an overview of the fundamentals of financial planning, and is designed to provide students with tools needed to achieve their personal financial goals. Students learn to make informed decisions related to spending, saving, borrowing, and investing by applying quantitative reasoning concepts. Course topics include the financial planning process, budgeting, cash flow, debt consolidation, investing, and retirement planning.

ENGL C1000 - Academic Reading and Writing (formerly ENGL 101) (RHC GE 1b and 8a)GE3.5
ENGL C1000 - Academic Reading and Writing (formerly ENGL 101) (3.5 units)

(Formerly ENGL 001A, ENGL 101)

Prerequisite:Placement as determined by the college’s multiple measures assessment process.
Transfers to:UC, CSU

In this course, students receive instruction in academic reading and writing, including writing processes, effective use of language, analytical thinking, and the foundations of academic research. This composition course enables students to generate logical, coherent essays that incorporate sources necessary for academic and professional success. Students become proficient in researching, evaluating, and incorporating sources, and in learning critical reading and thinking skills through expository and persuasive reading selections before applying these skills to creating original documented essays. The writing workshop component of the course is designed to assist students with improving and refining their writing and language skills: Students complete writing workshop activities that enhance their ability to compose logical, well-supported arguments that exhibit grammatical fluency and correct citation styles. Students meet with composition instructors through individual or small group conferences that address students’ specific writing concerns. 

RHC GE 7a - Fine ArtsGE3.0

Note: All honors courses have a prerequisite.

Select one:
ARCH 103
ART 101, 104, 105, 105H, 106, 106H, 107, 108, 109, 110, 112, 113, 115, 117, 120, 130, 135, 140;
DANC 179, 179H, 199, 199H;
GDSN 110:
MUS 101, 129, 130, 131, 132, 133, 135, 136;
MUST 151, 152;
PHTO 110, 130;
THTR 101, 105, 105H, 110, 150

Total Semester Units:12.5† 
2nd Semester
AUTO 157 - Automotive Specialized Electronics TrainingM4.0
AUTO 157 - Automotive Specialized Electronics Training (4.0 units)

(Formerly AUTO 057, AUTOT 057)

Prerequisite:AUTO 106
Transfers to:CSU

This course provides an overview of the principles of automotive electronics. Topics covered include electrical theory, fundamentals of circuit construction, computers, semiconductors, microprocessors, integrated circuits (IC), types of output signals, wire repair techniques, meter usage and strategy based diagnostics. A demonstration General Motors circuit board will be used to illustrate circuit board function. This course is designed for entry level technicians or students who need an understanding of the basics of automotive electronics.

RHC GE 7b - HumanitiesGE3.0†

Notes:
All honors courses have a prerequisite.
† some classes may have higher units. 

Select one:
ANTH 104;
ASL 101, 124, 201, 202;
CHIN 101, 102;
CHST 101, 146, 148, 148H, 150;
EGSS 130;
ENGL 126, 131;
FR 101, 102, 201, 202;
HIST 101, 102, 122, 131, 143, 143H, 144, 144H, 156, 157, 158, 159, 159H, 167, 170;
HUM 110, 111, 125, 125H, 130, 140, 145;
JAPN 101, 102;
KIN 199
LIT 102, 102H, 112A, 112AH, 112B, 112BH, 114, 114H, 117, 117H, 130, 130H,140, 140H, 141, 141H, 142, 142H, 144A, 144AH, 144B, 144BH, 145, 145H, 146A, 146AH, 146B, 146BH, 147, 147H, 148, 148H, 149, 149H;
MSCM 128;
PHIL 101, 101H, 102, 120, 122, 124, 126, 128, 128H, 135, 140;
POLS 128, 128H, 150;
SPAN 101, 101S, 102, 102S, 201, 201H, 202;
SPCH 130, 132

RHC GE 4 - American InstitutionsGE3.0

Note: All honors courses have a prerequisite.

Select one:
POLS C1000, C1000H;
HIST 143, 143H, 144, 144H, 156, 157, 158, 159, 159H, 170

RHC GE 6 - Social and Behavioral SciencesGE3.0

Note: All honors courses have a prerequisite.

Select one:
AJ 101
ANTH 102, 102H, 103, 104, 110, 115, 125;
CD 106, 208;
CHST 101, 146, 148, 148H, 150;
ECON 101, 101H, 102, 102H, 106, 135;
EGSS 110, 120, 130;
GEOG 102, 103;
HIST 101, 102, 122, 131, 143, 143H, 144, 144H, 156, 157, 158, 159, 159H, 167, 170;
HUM 110, 111, 125, 125H, 130;
KIN 170, 190, 195
MSCM 103, 128;
PHIL 128, 128H, 135;
POLS C1000, C1000H, 115, 125, 128, 128H, 130, 135,140,150;
PSY 112, 114, 180, 200;
PSYC C1000, C1000H;
SOC 101, 101H, 102, 105, 110, 114, 116, 120, 127, 130;
SPCH 150

Total Semester Units:13.0† 
3rd Semester
AUTO 131 - Automotive EV Electronics IM3.0
AUTO 131 - Automotive EV Electronics I (3.0 units)

Prerequisite:AUTO 106, AUTO 157
Transfers to: CSU

This is the first of two introductory courses designed to expand student skills related to the fundamentals of the electrical systems of the modern hybrid/electric automobile. The course covers the general electrician skills needed to understand and diagnose modern electric vehicles. Emphasis is placed on electrical fundamentals, symbols and circuit diagrams, high-voltage batteries, charging systems, heat pumps for cooling and heating, and LED lighting systems. Students learn the proper use of high voltage electrical diagnostic tools and equipment and how to safely perform vehicle electrical service and maintenance operations. Students also have the opportunity to perform minor repair work on hybrid and high voltage vehicles to complete required tasks. The course is designed to be a companion course to AUTO 132 and a prerequisite course for AUTO 147. Students are encouraged to complete both AUTO 131 and AUTO 132 in order to obtain a firm foundation in this subject.

AUTO 147 - Introduction to Hybrid and Electric Vehicle TechnologyM3.0
AUTO 147 - Introduction to Hybrid and Electric Vehicle Technology (3.0 units)

(Formerly AUTO 0478, AUTOT 47.8)

Prerequisite: AUTO 157
Transfers to:CSU

This course explores the use of hybrid and electric power for vehicle transportation. Topics include safety when using high voltage, maintenance, drivability, inverter power transfer, battery technologies, hydrogen electric power, and fuel cell technology. The physics of battery storage, hybrid generation systems, and electric vehicle applications and their integrated systems from various manufacturers are discussed. This course is suitable for students entering into the alternative fuels or power generation and energy technology fields.

RHC GE 5 - Natural Sciences with LabGE4.0

Note: All honors courses have a prerequisite.

Select one Natural Science with Lab:
ANTH 101, 101H & 101L;
ASTR 110, 110H & 112, 137;
BIOL 101, 105 & 105L, 111 & 111L, 112, 120 & 120L;
BIOT 100;
CHEM 110, 120, 130;
GEOG 101 & 101L;
GEOL 150 & 151, 152 & 152L;
PHY 120, 150, 160, 211, 212, 213

RHC GE 3 - Physical EducationGE1.0

Select one: KINA or DANC activity course.
Students who have completed a Fire, Police, Wildland Fire, or Corrections Academy from an accredited institution are automatically waived from this requirement, as are students with a DD214 on file. Exemption may be granted to those students physically unable to complete this requirement. Exemption forms are available in Student Health & Psychological Services.

ElectiveEL1.0

Select any course that is numbered 40 or above. Please see a counselor to discuss course options.

Total Semester Units:12.0 
4th Semester
AUTO 132 - Automotive EV Electronics IIM3.0
AUTO 132 - Automotive EV Electronics II (3.0 units)

Prerequisite:AUTO 131
Transfers to: CSU

This is the second of two introductory courses designed to expand student skills related to the fundamentals of the electrical systems of the modern hybrid/electric automobile. The course covers the general electrician skills needed to understand and diagnose modern electric vehicles. Emphasis is placed on electrical fundamentals, symbols and circuit diagrams, high-voltage energy storage and range calculations, charging systems/on and off vehicle, heat pump for cooling and heating, motor and generators, magnetism, induction, and LED lighting systems. Students learn the proper use of high voltage electrical diagnostic tools and equipment, automated driver alert systems, camera, and radar communication with vehicle safety systems, and how to safely perform vehicle electrical service and maintenance operations. Students also have the opportunity to perform minor repair work on hybrid and high voltage vehicles to complete required tasks. This course is designed to be a companion course to AUTO 131, a prerequisite course for AUTO 147 and AUTO 148. Students are encouraged to complete both AUTO 131 and AUTO 132 to obtain a firm foundation on the subject of electronics and electric vehicles.

AUTO 260 - Advanced Hybrid/Electric VehicleM4.0
AUTO 260 - Advanced Hybrid/Electric Vehicle (4.0 units)

Prerequisite: AUTO 147
Advisory:AUTO 157
Transfer to: CSU

This course continues the study of the use and service of hybrid electronic generation and plug-in battery electric power for vehicle transportation. The course is not for beginner technicians. Topics will include Occupational Safety and Health Administration/National Electrical Code/National Fire Protection Association (OSHA/NEC/NFPA) safety when using high voltage; vehicle maintenance; drivability conditions; inverter power transfer; battery storage technologies; regeneration of electrical power from kinetic energy; and Level 1, Level 2, Level 3 battery charging and fuel cell technology. Dynamics of battery storage, hybrid generation systems, electric vehicle applications, and their integrated systems from many manufactures are discussed. High-voltage battery management systems including active/passive design to charging systems will be the primary focus of the course. This course is for students working in the hybrid and electric vehicle or power engineering and technology fields.

RHC GE 8 - Oral Communication and Critical ThinkingGE3.0†

Notes:
All honors courses have a prerequisite.
† some classes may have higher units.

Select one:
CIT 101, 125, 135;
COMM C1000, C1000H;
ENGL 125, C1001, C1001H;
DSCI 101;
FIN 101;
GIS 120;

MATH 140, 150, 160, 170, 175, 180, 185, 190, 190H, 191, 250, 251, 260, 270;
PHIL 110, 110H, 112, 112H, 115;
PSY 190;
SPCH 100, 100H, 120, 140;
STAT C1000, C1000H;
READ 101;
VOCB 101

RHC GE 3 - Physical EducationGE1.0

Select one: KINA or DANC activity course.
Students who have completed a Fire, Police, Wildland Fire, or Corrections Academy from an accredited institution are automatically waived from this requirement, as are students with a DD214 on file. Exemption may be granted to those students physically unable to complete this requirement. Exemption forms are available in Student Health & Psychological Services.

ElectiveEL1.0

Select any course that is numbered 40 or above. Please see a counselor to discuss course options.

Total Semester Units:12.0† 
5th Semester
AUTO 266 - Fuel Cell Technology FundamentalsM3.0
AUTO 266 - Fuel Cell Technology Fundamentals (3.0 units)

(Formerly AUTO 265)
Prerequisite:AUTO 260
Advisory: AUTO 147; Students are highly recommended to have completed the AUTO 147 course to understand the basic electronic powertrain theory.
Transfer to: CSU

This course addresses the fundamentals of the different types of fuel cells and their application for the generation of mobile, vehicular, and stationary power. Topics will include: safety standards (OSHA/NEC/NFPA) when developing, servicing, and working in a high voltage/power inverter transfer; battery storage technologies, and regeneration of electrical power from kinetic energy. A descriptive overview of key fuel cell technologies, including proton exchange membrane (PEM), direct methanol fuel cell, alkaline, and solid oxide fuel cell, will be provided together with potential applications for transportation, stationary, and portable power. Hydrogen production/storage and high voltage safety will also be covered.

Major ElectiveM4.0

Please see a counselor to discuss course options.

Major ElectiveM4.0

Please see a counselor to discuss course options.

ElectiveEL1.0

Select any course that is numbered 40 or above. Please see a counselor to discuss course options.

Total Semester Units:12.0 
Total Units for Electric Vehicle and Fuel Cell Technology Technician AS program 61.5† 
Notes:
  • AP exams and courses taken outside of Rio Hondo College may fulfill general education and/or major requirements. Please check with a counselor.
  • Highly recommended: if you have no formal AUTO experience faculty recommend completion of AUTO 101, AUTO 103 and AUTO 107.
Legend:
Some classes may have higher units
M Major course; course may also meet a general education requirement
GEGeneral Education course
ELElective Course
CourseUnitsTypically Offered
1st Semester
AUTO 106 - Automotive Electrical Tools and Diagnostic ProceduresM3.0
AUTO 106 - Automotive Electrical Tools and Diagnostic Procedures (3.0 units)

(Formerly AUTOT 106)

Advisory:AUTO 101 or AUTO 103
Transfers to: CSU

This introductory course is designed to provide students with the fundamentals of the electrical systems of the 21st century automobile. Emphasis is placed on electrical fundamentals, symbols and circuit diagrams, batteries, starting, charging, ignition, and lighting systems. Students learn the proper use of automotive electrical tools and equipment and how to safely perform basic vehicle electrical repair and maintenance operations. Students also have the opportunity to perform minor repair work on their own vehicles to complete required tasks. This course is required for the General Service Technician Certificate of Achievement. It is designed to be a companion course to AUTO 101 and AUTO 103, and is one of the three prerequisite courses for AUTO 107. Students are encouraged to complete all three courses in order to obtain a firm foundation in this subject.

ENGL C1000 - Academic Reading and Writing (formerly ENGL 101) (IGETC 1A)GE3.5
ENGL C1000 - Academic Reading and Writing (formerly ENGL 101) (3.5 units)

(Formerly ENGL 001A, ENGL 101)

Prerequisite:Placement as determined by the college’s multiple measures assessment process.
Transfers to:UC, CSU

In this course, students receive instruction in academic reading and writing, including writing processes, effective use of language, analytical thinking, and the foundations of academic research. This composition course enables students to generate logical, coherent essays that incorporate sources necessary for academic and professional success. Students become proficient in researching, evaluating, and incorporating sources, and in learning critical reading and thinking skills through expository and persuasive reading selections before applying these skills to creating original documented essays. The writing workshop component of the course is designed to assist students with improving and refining their writing and language skills: Students complete writing workshop activities that enhance their ability to compose logical, well-supported arguments that exhibit grammatical fluency and correct citation styles. Students meet with composition instructors through individual or small group conferences that address students’ specific writing concerns. 

Cal-GETC 3a - ArtsGE3.0†

Notes:
All honors courses have a prerequisite.
† some classes may have higher units.

Select one:
ARCH 103
ARTS: ART 104, 105, 105H, 106, 106H, 107, 108, 109, 110, 112, 113, 115, 117
DANC 179, 179H, 199, 199H
GDSN 110
MUS 129, 130, 131, 132, 133, 135, 136
MUST 151, 152
THTR 101, 105, 105H

Select one: MATH 150 / STAT C1000 / STAT C1000H / PSY 190 GE3.0†
Notes:
While the above course(s) are recommended, students may take any of the following courses to fulfill this requirement:  MATH 130/H, MATH 150, MATH 160, MATH 170, MATH 180, MATH190/H, PSY 190.

MATH 150 - Survey of Mathematics (3.0 units)

Prerequisite:Enrollment requires appropriate placement (based on high school GPA and/or other measures), or completion of an intermediate algebra course.
Transfers to: CSU, UC

In this course students will learn to read and understand quantitative information, solve practical problems, and make sound decisions using numbers. Topics include consumer applications, logic, probability, statistics, algebra, and geometry. This course is for students who need a quantitative reasoning course for graduation or transfer.

STAT C1000 - Introduction to Statistics (formerly MATH 130) (4.0 units)

(Formerly MATH 012, MATH 130)

Advisory:Placement as determined by the college’s multiple measures assessment process or completion of a course taught at or above the level of intermediate algebra. ENGL C1000, READ 101
Transfers to: UC (*credit limit),CSU
(*Students will receive credit for only one of the following courses: STAT C1000, STAT C1000H)

This course is an introduction to statistical thinking and processes, including methods and concepts for discovery and decision-making using data. Topics include descriptive statistics; probability and sampling distributions; statistical inference; correlation and linear regression; analysis of variance, chi-squared, and t-tests; and application of technology for statistical analysis including the interpretation of the relevance of the statistical findings. Students apply methods and processes to applications using data from a broad range of disciplines.

STAT C1000H - Introduction to Statistics - Honors (formerly MATH 130H) (4.0 units)

Advisory:Placement as determined by the college’s multiple measures assessment process or completion of a course taught at or above the level of intermediate algebra. READ 101, ENGL C1000
Transfers to: UC (*credit limit), CSU
(*Students will receive credit for only one of the following courses: STAT C1000, STAT C1000H)

This course is an introduction to statistical thinking and processes, including methods and concepts for discovery and decision-making using data. Topics include descriptive statistics; probability and sampling distributions; statistical inference; correlation and linear regression; analysis of variance, chi-squared, and t-tests; and application of technology for statistical analysis including the interpretation of the relevance of the statistical findings. Students apply methods and processes to applications using data from a broad range of disciplines. This is an honors course. This course is recommended for students intending on participating in the Honors Transfer Program.

PSY 190 - Statistics for the Behavioral Sciences (4.0 units)

Prerequisite:Enrollment requires appropriate placement (based on high school GPA and/or other measures), or completion of a pre-statistics or an intermediate algebra course.
Advisory:ENGL 101 and the ability to read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC (*credit limit), CSU
(*The UC will grant credit for only one of the following courses: MATH 130 or MATH 130H or PSY 190)

This course provides an overview of the types of statistics that are important in the behavioral sciences. It is designed to teach students majoring in psychology, sociology, political science, and anthropology how to present and interpret experimental data. The course focuses on hypothesis testing and the statistics used to analyze assumptions, with topics including basic probability, measures of central tendency, measures of variance, sampling, and inferential statistics.

Total Semester Units:12.5† 
2nd Semester
AUTO 157 - Automotive Specialized Electronics TrainingM4.0
AUTO 157 - Automotive Specialized Electronics Training (4.0 units)

(Formerly AUTO 057, AUTOT 057)

Prerequisite:AUTO 106
Transfers to:CSU

This course provides an overview of the principles of automotive electronics. Topics covered include electrical theory, fundamentals of circuit construction, computers, semiconductors, microprocessors, integrated circuits (IC), types of output signals, wire repair techniques, meter usage and strategy based diagnostics. A demonstration General Motors circuit board will be used to illustrate circuit board function. This course is designed for entry level technicians or students who need an understanding of the basics of automotive electronics.

Cal-GETC 1b - Critical Thinking and CompositionGE3.0†

Notes:
All honors courses have a prerequisite.
† some classes may have higher units.

Select one:
ENGL C1001, 1001H
PHIL 110, 110H

Cal-GETC 3a - ArtsGE3.0†

Notes:
All honors courses have a prerequisite.
† some classes may have higher units.

Select one:
ARCH 103
ARTS: ART 104, 105, 105H, 106, 106H, 107, 108, 109, 110, 112, 113, 115, 117
DANC 179, 179H, 199, 199H
GDSN 110
MUS 129, 130, 131, 132, 133, 135, 136
MUST 151, 152
THTR 101, 105, 105H

Cal-GETC 4 - Social and Behavioral SciencesGE3.0

Notes:
All honors courses have a prerequisite.
A total of 6 units required in Social and Behavioral Sciences from 2 different disciplines.

 Select one:
AJ 101
ANTH 102, 102H, 103, 110, 115, 125
CD 106, 208
CHST 101, 146, 148, 148H, 150
ECON 101, 101H, 102, 102H, 106, 135
EGSS 110, 120, 130
GEOG 102, 103
HIST 101, 102, 122, 131, 143, 143H, 144, 144H, 156, 157, 158,159, 159H, 167, 170
HUM 110, 111, 125, 125H, 130
MSCM 128
PHIL 128, 128H, 135
POLS C1000, C1000H, 115, 125, 128, 128H, 130,135, 140, 150
PSY 112, 114, 200
PSYC C1000, C1000H
SOC 101, 101H, 102, 105, 110, 114, 116, 120, 127, 130
SPCH 150

Total Semester Units:13.0† 
3rd Semester
AUTO 131 - Automotive EV Electronics IM3.0
AUTO 131 - Automotive EV Electronics I (3.0 units)

Prerequisite:AUTO 106, AUTO 157
Transfers to: CSU

This is the first of two introductory courses designed to expand student skills related to the fundamentals of the electrical systems of the modern hybrid/electric automobile. The course covers the general electrician skills needed to understand and diagnose modern electric vehicles. Emphasis is placed on electrical fundamentals, symbols and circuit diagrams, high-voltage batteries, charging systems, heat pumps for cooling and heating, and LED lighting systems. Students learn the proper use of high voltage electrical diagnostic tools and equipment and how to safely perform vehicle electrical service and maintenance operations. Students also have the opportunity to perform minor repair work on hybrid and high voltage vehicles to complete required tasks. The course is designed to be a companion course to AUTO 132 and a prerequisite course for AUTO 147. Students are encouraged to complete both AUTO 131 and AUTO 132 in order to obtain a firm foundation in this subject.

AUTO 147 - Introduction to Hybrid and Electric Vehicle TechnologyM3.0
AUTO 147 - Introduction to Hybrid and Electric Vehicle Technology (3.0 units)

(Formerly AUTO 0478, AUTOT 47.8)

Prerequisite: AUTO 157
Transfers to:CSU

This course explores the use of hybrid and electric power for vehicle transportation. Topics include safety when using high voltage, maintenance, drivability, inverter power transfer, battery technologies, hydrogen electric power, and fuel cell technology. The physics of battery storage, hybrid generation systems, and electric vehicle applications and their integrated systems from various manufacturers are discussed. This course is suitable for students entering into the alternative fuels or power generation and energy technology fields.

The course data is currently unavailable.0
Cal-GETC 4 - Social and Behavioral SciencesGE3.0

Notes:
All honors courses have a prerequisite.
A total of 6 units required in Social and Behavioral Sciences from 2 different disciplines.

 Select one:
AJ 101
ANTH 102, 102H, 103, 110, 115, 125
CD 106, 208
CHST 101, 146, 148, 148H, 150
ECON 101, 101H, 102, 102H, 106, 135
EGSS 110, 120, 130
GEOG 102, 103
HIST 101, 102, 122, 131, 143, 143H, 144, 144H, 156, 157, 158,159, 159H, 167, 170
HUM 110, 111, 125, 125H, 130
MSCM 128
PHIL 128, 128H, 135
POLS C1000, C1000H, 115, 125, 128, 128H, 130,135, 140, 150
PSY 112, 114, 200
PSYC C1000, C1000H
SOC 101, 101H, 102, 105, 110, 114, 116, 120, 127, 130
SPCH 150

Total Semester Units:9.0 
4th Semester
AUTO 132 - Automotive EV Electronics IIM3.0
AUTO 132 - Automotive EV Electronics II (3.0 units)

Prerequisite:AUTO 131
Transfers to: CSU

This is the second of two introductory courses designed to expand student skills related to the fundamentals of the electrical systems of the modern hybrid/electric automobile. The course covers the general electrician skills needed to understand and diagnose modern electric vehicles. Emphasis is placed on electrical fundamentals, symbols and circuit diagrams, high-voltage energy storage and range calculations, charging systems/on and off vehicle, heat pump for cooling and heating, motor and generators, magnetism, induction, and LED lighting systems. Students learn the proper use of high voltage electrical diagnostic tools and equipment, automated driver alert systems, camera, and radar communication with vehicle safety systems, and how to safely perform vehicle electrical service and maintenance operations. Students also have the opportunity to perform minor repair work on hybrid and high voltage vehicles to complete required tasks. This course is designed to be a companion course to AUTO 131, a prerequisite course for AUTO 147 and AUTO 148. Students are encouraged to complete both AUTO 131 and AUTO 132 to obtain a firm foundation on the subject of electronics and electric vehicles.

AUTO 260 - Advanced Hybrid/Electric VehicleM4.0
AUTO 260 - Advanced Hybrid/Electric Vehicle (4.0 units)

Prerequisite: AUTO 147
Advisory:AUTO 157
Transfer to: CSU

This course continues the study of the use and service of hybrid electronic generation and plug-in battery electric power for vehicle transportation. The course is not for beginner technicians. Topics will include Occupational Safety and Health Administration/National Electrical Code/National Fire Protection Association (OSHA/NEC/NFPA) safety when using high voltage; vehicle maintenance; drivability conditions; inverter power transfer; battery storage technologies; regeneration of electrical power from kinetic energy; and Level 1, Level 2, Level 3 battery charging and fuel cell technology. Dynamics of battery storage, hybrid generation systems, electric vehicle applications, and their integrated systems from many manufactures are discussed. High-voltage battery management systems including active/passive design to charging systems will be the primary focus of the course. This course is for students working in the hybrid and electric vehicle or power engineering and technology fields.

Cal-GETC 5a - Physical ScienceGE3.0†

Notes:
All honors courses have a prerequisite.
† some classes may have higher units.
All labs or courses with labs are indicated by an '*'.

Select one:
ASTR 110, 110H, 112*, 137*
GEOG 101, 101L*
GEOL 150, 151*, 152, 152L*
CHEM 110*, 120*, 130*, 140*, 230*, 231*
PHY 120*, 150*, 160*, 211*, 212*, 213*

Cal-GETC 5c - LaboratoryGE1.0

Select one if lab has not been completed in IGETC 5A or 5B.
All labs or courses with labs are indicated by an '*':
ANTH 101L*;
ASTR 112*;
BIOL 101*, 105L*, 111L*, 120L*, 200*, 201*, 222*, 226*;
CHEM 110*, 120*, 130*, 140*, 230*, 231*;
GEOG 101L*;
GEOL 151*;
PHY 120*,150*, 160*, 211*, 212*, 213*

Cal-GETC 1c - Oral CommunicationGE3.0

Note: All honors courses have a prerequisite.

Select one:
COMM C1000, C1000H

Total Semester Units:14.0† 
5th Semester
AUTO 266 - Fuel Cell Technology FundamentalsM3.0
AUTO 266 - Fuel Cell Technology Fundamentals (3.0 units)

(Formerly AUTO 265)
Prerequisite:AUTO 260
Advisory: AUTO 147; Students are highly recommended to have completed the AUTO 147 course to understand the basic electronic powertrain theory.
Transfer to: CSU

This course addresses the fundamentals of the different types of fuel cells and their application for the generation of mobile, vehicular, and stationary power. Topics will include: safety standards (OSHA/NEC/NFPA) when developing, servicing, and working in a high voltage/power inverter transfer; battery storage technologies, and regeneration of electrical power from kinetic energy. A descriptive overview of key fuel cell technologies, including proton exchange membrane (PEM), direct methanol fuel cell, alkaline, and solid oxide fuel cell, will be provided together with potential applications for transportation, stationary, and portable power. Hydrogen production/storage and high voltage safety will also be covered.

Cal-GETC 4 - Social and Behavioral SciencesGE3.0

Notes:
All honors courses have a prerequisite.
A total of 6 units required in Social and Behavioral Sciences from 2 different disciplines.

 Select one:
AJ 101
ANTH 102, 102H, 103, 110, 115, 125
CD 106, 208
CHST 101, 146, 148, 148H, 150
ECON 101, 101H, 102, 102H, 106, 135
EGSS 110, 120, 130
GEOG 102, 103
HIST 101, 102, 122, 131, 143, 143H, 144, 144H, 156, 157, 158,159, 159H, 167, 170
HUM 110, 111, 125, 125H, 130
MSCM 128
PHIL 128, 128H, 135
POLS C1000, C1000H, 115, 125, 128, 128H, 130,135, 140, 150
PSY 112, 114, 200
PSYC C1000, C1000H
SOC 101, 101H, 102, 105, 110, 114, 116, 120, 127, 130
SPCH 150

The course data is currently unavailable.0
Cal-GETC 3b - HumanitiesGE3.0†

Notes:
All honors courses have a prerequisite.
† some classes may have higher units.

Select one:
ANTH 104
ASL 124, 201
CHIN 102
CHST 101, 146, 148, 148H
ENGL126
FR 102, 201, 202
HIST 101, 102, 122, 131, 143, 143H, 144, 144H, 156, 157, 158, 159, 159H, 167, 170
HUM 110, 111, 125, 125H, 130, 140, 145
JAPN 102
LIT 102, 102H, 112A, 112AH, 112B, 112BH, 114, 114H, 117, 117H, 130, 130H, 140, 140H, 141, 141H, 142, 142H, 144A, 144AH, 144B, 144BH, 145, 145H, 146A,146AH, 146B, 146BH, 147, 147H, 148, 148H, 149, 149H
PHIL 101, 101H, 102, 120, 122, 124, 126, 128, 128H, 135, 140
POLS 128, 128H;
SPAN 102, 201, 201H, 202

Cal-GETC 5b - Biological ScienceGE3.0†

Notes:
All honors courses have a prerequisite.
† some classes may have higher units.
All labs or courses with labs are indicated by an '*':

Select one:
ANTH 101, 101H, 101L*; BIOL 101*, 105, 105L*, 111, 111L*, 120, 120L*, 200*, 201*, 206, 222*, 226*;
PSY 210, 210H.

Total Semester Units:12.0† 
Total Units for Electric Vehicle and Fuel Cell Technology Technician AS program (Transfer to Cal-GETC)60.5† 
Notes:
  • AP exams and courses taken outside of Rio Hondo College may fulfill general education and/or major requirements. Please check with a counselor.
  • Highly recommended: if you have no formal AUTO experience faculty recommend completion of AUTO 101, AUTO 103 and AUTO 107.
Legend:
Some classes may have higher units
M Major course; course may also meet a general education requirement
GEGeneral Education course
ELElective Course
Advising Sheet:
Click or tap here to open the program's advising sheet.

Program Learning Outcomes

About RHC

Rio Hondo College, serving the communities of El Monte, Pico Rivera, Santa Fe Springs, South El Monte, and Whittier for over 50 years.

Contact

Rio Hondo College
3600 Workman Mill Road
Whittier, CA 90601

Phone: (562) 692-0921
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