Hybrid powertrains deliver HOPE
The use of fuel cells (FC) is expected to be the wave of the future, bringing forth an environmentally-friendly alternative to fossil fuels. Before this can be fully realised, however, more advances in fuel cell technology are needed. The HOPE project addressed high density power electronics, a key technology concerning energy supply in the automotive industry with tremendous energy saving potential. The particular emphasis of the research was on high density power electronics for FC and ICE (internal combustion engine) hybrid electric vehicle powertrains. The main goals concerned cost reduction, meeting reliability requirements and reducing volume and weight. Key parameters from industrial application specifications such as OEMs (Original equipment manufacturers) were considered. Through testing the integrated technologies, lower costs and higher reliability were achieved. These indicators bring good news for more competitive European products as well as for the environment.
