Performance Improvement of Induction Machines for Automotive Application

As the transport sector shifts towards electric traction, more efficient, performing, and green drives are required by the market. Most of the electric vehicles are equipped with Permanent Magnet Synchronous Machines (PMSM), even if the rare earths needed for permanent magnets significantly increase the motor’s carbon footprint. Induction Motors (IM) arise as an alternative, but the limited efficiency and the higher mass represent a limit. This paper analyzes various solutions to enhance motor performance. In particular, different rotor bar shapes and the application of grain-oriented steel are tested through FEA. The achieved results are compared and discussed, highlighting new possible strategies that can boost the application of induction machines in traction applications.