Microcontrollers for the drive train in hybrid and electric vehicles
Introduction The electric drive train is superior in many respects to the conventional drive train with combustion engines. The electric motor has higher efficiency, as well as better torque and performance. An electric drive train provides a much simpler mechanical design while eliminating undesirable noise and pollution emissions. Although today’s electrical energy storage systems limit the vehicle range employing intelligent battery management and the hybrid concept (i.e., the combination of electric motor and combustion engine), helps to compensate for this. In addition, certain system faults can be dangerous to passengers and damage the electrical components of the vehicle, so automotive safety requirements, under the ISO 26262 standard, must be taken into account. This article describes the types of e-machines used, the electronic controller for e-motor control, and the resulting specific demands on the microcontroller. With the Hercules™ TMS570LS safety microcontrol...