High Efficiency Thermophotovoltaics for Automotive Applications

Theromophotovoltaic generators are a convenient solution to extend the range of commercial electric vehicles. High efficiencies and small volumes are required for this application. This paper shows how this problem can be addressed by using a new generation of photovoltaic cells based on quantum low-dimensional structures. Their advantage over the conventional (single gap) cells are remarkable, particularly for the conversion of narrow-band infrared radiation, produced by a combustor coupled to a selective emitter at about 1500K-1800K.