Development of power devices for hybrid vehicles

Vehicles powered by electric energy are considered to reduce CO2 emission but they must work properly under severe environment. In this paper, we report our efforts on the research like the crystal defect and the thermal stress analysis of power devices for hybrid vehicles. In addition, the inverter circuit simulation technique which simulates both the device loss and the temperature in state of the vehicle running was described. To realize ultra-high power density inverters and/or converters for future vehicles, interdisciplinary approach and information sharing among researchers should be important.