A new-generation hybrid electric vehicle and its supporting power semiconductor devices

A new-generation Toyota hybrid system called THS II has been developed for a passenger car, the Prius. THS II is based on the "hybrid synergy drive" concept. It has achieved high levels of compatibility between environmental performance and power. It has adopted a variable-voltage system in which a boost converter raises the voltage of a battery to higher voltages in a controlled manner. The motor power has increased to 1.5-times higher output. This paper describes the basic operations of THS II, its power electronics systems and components, and its supporting power semiconductor devices.