Challenges for IGBT modules in hybrid buses

Hybrid buses are currently enjoying a very high level of interest worldwide. For this market an inverter family was developed using the latest IGBT technology. The tough operating conditions, and especially the mission profile in hybrid drives, represent a big challenge for IGBT modules. Electrical, thermal and lifetime limitations reduce the level to which they can be exploited. New IGBT developments have been investigated, which indicate ways of how to reduce these drawbacks but not eliminate them. A high level of system know-how is important to guarantee the optimal and reliable solution.