Reuse of hybrid car power systems

Abstract

Used hybrid car power systems are inexpensive and capable of tens of kilowatts of power throughput. This paper documents a process for using the second generation Toyota Prius inverter module to drive a three phase permanent magnet synchronous motor/generator from Ford hybrid vehicle. A lightweight housing and a rotor position sensor for the motor/generator are constructed to allow it to be used outside of the original bulky transaxle. Field oriented control is implemented on a microcontroller which interfaces with the motor/generator and the Prius inverter module. The motor, inverter, and controller are installed on a demonstration vehicle for the purpose of load testing.