Development of a decentralized traction drive unit

The paper deals with the decentralized traction drive unit as alternative concept for an electrical drive train. The system consists of a dynamic storage, an inverter and the electrical machine, which form a high efficient separate module. The continuous system power of 25 kW goes back to drive cycle and vehicle analysis that allow a scaling to different vehicle classes by varying the module number. In contrast to conventional electrical drive trains, the system voltage is lower than 60 V. This voltage level is compliant to extra-low-voltage standards for a high system safety and reduced insulation effort. Resulting RMS currents up to 600 A are the major challenge for the system and motor design. Starting with the overall concept, the paper highlights the effects on machine and winding configuration. The development process is completed by measurements of the realized drive train demonstrator and the identification of optimization potential.