An Economical Approach for Solar PV-Battery Based E-Rickshaw with Regenerative Braking using Sensorless BLDC Motor Drive

This paper deals with an economical approach of solar and battery-powered e-rickshaw employing a permanent magnet brushless DC (PMBLDC) motor with sensorless control. Here a lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery, having the benefits of fast charging, higher depth of discharge (DOD), and significantly lower maintenance cost, is preferred over the traditional lead-acid battery. However, it increases the vehicle's initial value, but it becomes cost-effective and economical in the long run. The improved driving range of the vehicle allows the owner to earn more by increasing the daily number of shifts. The regenerative braking strategy is also implemented that reduces carbon emission and a step towards green mobility. The energy regeneration technology significantly improves the driving range of the vehicle. The maximum power extraction of the solar PV panel is achieved by the Cuk converter, ensuring continuous input and output current. Thus, the life span of the battery is largely improved. To make the system robust and cost effective, a novel position sensorless control is also implemented. This system is easy to control and can be implemented in the field.