This paper describes the design of an AC propulsion system for an electric vehicle, including a three-phase induction motor, transistorized PWM inverter/battery charger, microprocessor-based controller, and two-speed automatic transaxle.
This system was built and installed in a Mercury Lynx test bed vehicle as part of a Department of Energy propulsion system development program.
Design information on the transaxle is given. Integration of the transaxle to meet system needs is described.
An integral part of the inverter is a 4-kw battery charger which utilizes one of the bridge transistors. The overall inverter strategy for this configuration is discussed. The function of the microprocessor-based controller is described. Typical test results of the total vehicle and each of its major components are given, including system efficiencies and test track performance results.