drive system

Drive System
AC Propulsion's drive system leads the industry in peak and continuous power density – both on volumetric and weight bases. It delivers up to 200 kW (268 hp) motor output while maximizing vehicle-operating range with high efficiency over a broad operating range, and provides comprehensive energy recovery through traction-controlled regenerative braking.

drive system engine overview

The AC Propulsion drive system includes a power electronics unit (PEU) and AC-induction traction motor featuring proprietary and patented tzero™ technology to provide high performance, high efficiency, and rapid, convenient charging capabilities for electric vehicle applications.

tzero™ technology includes patented control and construction techniques that allow the power electronics and motor windings to be re-configured as a high-rate Reductive™ battery charger. Using existing componentry, the Reductive™ Charger reduces vehicle cost and weight. By allowing safe charging from existing 110V to 240V outlets at rates as high as 18 kW, the Reductive™ Charger reduces infrastructure installation requirements and costs, and its innovative bi-directional power capability allows self contained vehicle battery diagnostics and standby power generation. (Learn more about AC Propulsion's Reductive™ Charger)

drive system closeup

Some of the features of the tzero™ drive train include:

  • Bi-directional AC power grid interface, which provides for V2G capability (Learn more about V2G).
  • Stand-alone power generation mode
  • Integral automatic battery contactor inside the power electronics unit (PEU)
  • Digital interface for instrumentation and recharge control
  • Integrated DC bus power port
  • Refined motor control for higher power above base speed
  • Traction control and regeneration with lateral acceleration compensation
  • UPS mode for backup power and energy transfer to other electric vehicles

Power Electronics Unit (PEU)

  • Pulse-width-modulated, voltage fed, IGBT inverter with current mode, sine-modulated controls; battery charging circuitry; auxiliary 13.5V power supply; and interfaces for control pedals and dash instruments. Environmentally rugged forced air-cooled design.
  • Dimensions*: 186 x 313 x 760 mm
  • Total weight: 30 kg (incl. cooling blower)
  • Cooling: Forced-air with variable speed pwm control
  • Power connectors: Aircraft-style circular
  • Control connectors: AMP waterproof automotive
  • Auxiliary power supply current**: 100 A @ 13.5 V

* dimensions exclude blower and connectors
** up to 54 A allocated for cooling blowers

Motor

  • Four-pole induction, high frequency design with inverter-controlled magnetic flux.
  • Dimensions*: 12" dia x 15" long (305 mm dia x 381 mm long)
  • Total weight: 110 lb, 50 kg (incl. cooling blower)
  • Maximum rpm: 13,000
  • Insulation: Class H, double-insulated
  • Cooling: Forced-air with variable speed pwm control
  • Sensors: Winding temp, tachometer