Benefits of Si/SiC Fusion Switch for EREV Architectures

This technical report examines the advantages of Si/SiC Fusion switch power modules specifically for Extended-Range Electric Vehicles (EREVs) operating in charge depletion mode. The report details a system simulation comparing various power module technologies, including IGBT, SiC MOSFET, and Si/SiC Fusion switches, focusing on their impact on electric driving range. The study includes a parameter analysis of environmental conditions, such as driving uphill, to reflect real-world applications. The findings indicate that Si/SiC Fusion switch modules provide the most favorable efficiency-cost tradeoff for typical EREV configurations. The document is structured to first introduce EREV architectures, followed by a detailed discussion of the Si/SiC Fusion switch's operational principles, benchmarking methodologies, and results. Cost considerations are integrated into the analysis, concluding with recommendations for future research. Overall, the report aims to support the automotive industry's transition towards more efficient hybrid architectures.