Fuel cell-based topologies and multi-input DC–DC power converters for hybrid electric vehicles: A comprehensive review

Abstract

In the last few decades, the utilization of fuel cells (FCs) in the automotive industry has created much attention due to easy use, modular structure, and higher efficacy. In the future, technological evolutions reveal that FC driven electric vehicles (EVs) will grow at a rapid pace and will become an excellent alternative to conventional vehicles. This paper discusses a detailed topological classification of the FC-based hybrid electric vehicle (FCHEV). In these FCHEVs, one of the critical elements is the DC–DC power converter unit. The hybridization of FCs with the other power sources requires more converter units that make the system complex. A multi-input DC–DC power converter is used to connect more than one energy source to reduce the system's complexity and improve the overall system efficacy. In this survey, numerous articles have been considered and examined vividly. An assessment of present and future scenarios of FCs based power source topologies and multi-input DC–DC power converter topologies used in HEV is presented. This survey provides a deep insight into the topic for the researchers and engineers working in this field.