Advanced silicon rich automotive electrical power systems

In order to optimize automotive fuel economy, emissions, performance, and reliability, the More Electric Vehicles (MEV) concept emphasizes the utilization of electrical power systems instead of mechanical and hydraulic power systems. The proposed More Electric Systems facilitate high power loads and enable the introduction of power electronics in a silicon rich environment. On the other hand, there is a growing interest in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEV) due to environmental concerns. Expansion of MEV concept to HEV leads to More Electric Hybrid Vehicles (MEHV). In MEHV, high power hotel and ancillary loads associated with silicon rich environment present a challenge not only by acting as significant dynamic loads on the traction power system, but also by requiring a power conversion and distribution system of their own. In this paper, conventional automotive power systems, future electrical loads, and advanced MEV and MEHV distribution systems are described. Finally, we conclude with a proposed low voltage electrical system which integrates a common electrical power system for traction as well as other automotive loads for MEHV.