Interior Permanent Magnet Synchronous Machine Drive Powered by Fuel Cell for Automotive Applications

Electric vehicles represent an optimal solution for the reduction of pollution in urban areas. In particular, the Fuel Cell (FC) technology is a promising solution especially for its charging times and zero CO
₂
direct emissions. The paper addresses the design and performance study of an Interior Permanent Magnet Synchronous Machine (IPMSM) drive powered by fuel cell for automotive applications. The IPMSM drive is powered by the use of 5,5 kW FC unit and it is composed of two DC-DC power converters and one inverter. In detail, a test bench has been carried out for the evaluation of the performances of each IPMSM drive conversion stage. Moreover, in order to simulate automotive working conditions the European Standard Urban Driving Cycle (UDC) test is used in order to evaluate the performances of the electric drive. The experimental results are discussed in order to highlight the benefits and the adoption of possible solutions in order to improve the overall performances of the electric drive.