ODYSSEV builds on the current trend for higher voltage powertrains in battery electric vehicles. ODYSSEV develops the next generation of automotive power converters and optimises the different powertrain elements and their topologies.

The ODYSSEV powertrain preliminary design aims at achieving 1200V (and above) and 100 kW, but several scenarios will be analysed prior to making the final design, thus assessing the achievement of higher voltages.

In this direction, ODYSSEV develops a hybrid concept of inverter, able to benefit from both RC-IGBTs (Silicon Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistor) and SiC MOSFET (Metal–Oxide–Semiconductor Field-Effect Transistor) characteristics in the different load conditions faced by the electric vehicle.

Linked to the inverter, ODYSSEV will optimize both the high voltage motor geometry and topology, with a specific focus on avoiding partial discharge and current harmonics issues. ODYSSEV also optimises the battery pack, which will be designed as fully reconfigurable, to be charged at lower voltages (400-800V) but also provide 1200V or above during traction mode.

ODYSSEV will also address innovations in the powertrain dealing with the on-board charger, the system packaging and the overall control of the powertrain, to maximise efficiency for different car models, driving regions, load conditions and driving styles across the entire vehicle lifecycle.

ODYSSEV will ultimately demonstrate the novel concept of high voltage powertrain, by integrating the prototype in a vehicle for its test under real driving conditions. Hence, ODYSSEV will provide real evidence on the lower costs, losses and weight that high voltage solutions can offer for manufacturers of electric vehicles.