Efficient DC–DC power converters for fuel-cell electric vehicle: A qualitative assessment

Abstract

The general shift in vehicle propulsion systems from internal combustion engine (ICE) power-train towards electric power-train has led to the development of energy-efficient and compact electric drivetrain for next-generation automobiles such as fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEV). As opposed to ICE, fuel cell vehicles operate with higher powertrain efficiency and are combustion-less since the only byproduct is water. In light of developmental and environmental goals, fuel cell technology is consequently seen as the evolutionary step in vehicle technology. The electric drivetrain for FCEV consists of power converters, motors, and associated control systems. Direct connection of the fuel cell stack to the DC bus and other system components is inefficient. As a result, it becomes essential to regulate the high-voltage DC bus connecting the fuel cell stack to other system elements like the motor and energy storage devices. Therefore, DC–DC converters are designed for main power unit to provide the desired and regulated voltage to the DC bus making the system efficient and reliable. High-voltage step-up DC–DC converters have undergone extensive research in recent years, which has increased their functionality, performance, and efficiency for FCEV. A survey of these converters, and evaluation of their performance and index parameters, could be very helpful in designing efficient converters and for the development of vehicular electric power-train. This paper reviews the literature on electric drive-train, fuel cell systems, and different DC–DC converter topologies for fuel cell electric vehicles. This study aims to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the existing topologies, their applications, and comparative aspects, as well as works that haven't been covered in earlier reviews.