Keywords: Inverter-Equipped, EV Motor System, Silicon-Based, Energy Efficiency, Fuel Efficiency, HEV.
Mitsubishi Electric Corporation announced it has developed a prototype electric vehicle (EV) motor system with a built-in silicon carbide inverter. The EV motor system is physically small, measuring just half the dimensions of Mitsubishi Electric's existing motor system that uses an external inverter, and SiC inverter loss is below half that of silicon-based systems.
The new motor system is expected to enable manufacturers to develop EVs that offer more passenger space and greater energy efficiency. The company plans to commercialize the motor system after finalizing other technologies for motor/inverter cooling, downsizing and efficiency.
The global demand for EVs and hybrid EVs (HEVs) has been growing in recent years, reflecting increasingly strict regulation of fuel efficiency and growing public interest in saving energy resources and reducing carbon dioxide emissions. As EVs and HEVs require relatively large spaces to accommodate their sizable battery systems, there is a strong need to reduce the size and weight of motor systems and other equipment to ensure sufficient room in passenger compartments.
Key Developments of Mitsubishi Electric's new EV Motor System:
Inverter-equipped design just half the dimensions of existing system
SiC inverter loss is reduced by more than 50% compared to silicon-based systems
Improved winding density and magnetic efficiency results in smaller motors with higher output
ARC Advisory Group