Performance evaluation of AC machines for propulsion in a range extended electric auto rickshaw

Auto rickshaws are a special form of three-wheeled motorcycle, which are extensively used in Asian cities. Due to the high population density and narrow and crowed roads in many Asian cities, these three-wheeled auto rickshaws with small size and narrow body become an important means of transport for urban resident. However, the conventional auto rickshaws with two or four strokes gasoline engines present serious pollution problem in the cities. Thus, the conventional gasoline auto rickshaws are forbidden in some cities by the local government. This has led to the conceptualization of an all-electric auto rickshaw. Electric power auto rickshaws use the electrical machines for propulsion instead of the gasoline engines. This paper aims to analyze and compare the performance of four different electrical machines: squirrel cage induction machine (IM), interior permanent magnet synchronous motor (IPM), synchronous reluctance machine (SynRM), surface mounted permanent magnet synchronous motor (SPMSM). The suitability of the electric machine for the application depends on the constraints such as output torque, power density, efficiency, power factor and so on. The analysis and comparison are based on finite element method (FEM) and provides information for making a suitable selection.