Enhancement of Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor Drive-Based Solar-Powered Electric Vehicle Drivetrain

The rising demand for sustainable transportation has sparked significant interest in solar-powered electric vehicles (EVs). However, integrating solar energy into EV drivetrains, particularly those using Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motors (PMSMs), presents challenges due to the occasional nature of solar power needed for consistent vehicle performance under varying environmental conditions. This paper introduces a high-performance solar-fed PMSM system for electric vehicles, incorporating advanced control techniques and an intelligent energy management strategy (EMS). The system employs Field-Oriented Control (FOC) for precise motor speed regulation and a Fuzzy Logic-based Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) algorithm to optimize solar energy harvesting. A lithium-ion battery serves for efficient energy storage, enabling the system to store and use solar power effectively. The EMS dynamically allocates energy between the solar panels, battery, and motor, maximizing energy efficiency and extending the vehicle's range. The system was tested in MATLAB/Simulink simulations and validated using dSPACE DS1104 hardware for real-time control. The simulation results, coupled with hardware testing, demonstrate improved energy efficiency and reduced reliance on external charging sources. These findings position solar-powered EVs as a competitive and sustainable solution for the future, offering significant benefits to industries in EV manufacturing and renewable energy. The integration of solar power not only enhances sustainability but also addresses the growing demand for green and efficient transportation.