An alternative method to improve efficiency of Plug in Hybrid Electric Vehicles

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to suggest a method to increase efficiency of current range extension technology by harnessing energy from exhaust gases. Plug in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) use an engine and a generator to power the wheel motors directly once the battery reaches a low state of charge, the surplus is used to recharge the battery. A more efficient method is needed for conservation of fuel and range extension with lower engine power. The proposed system exploits the exhaust gas energy via a turbine coupled with a switched reluctance generator in addition to the generator coupled with the engine to charge the battery directly along with the engine. This results in a more efficient system, running without idling and at a constant speed. © 2012 IEEE.