Thesis work Hybrid GaN-SiC 3-Level Inverter Topologies for High-Performance Power Conversion

About this opportunity - Background

As part of Volvo Cars Electrification Strategy The Power Electronics department within Vehicle Propulsion is developing Power Electronics for Traction Inverter in both hardware and software areas.
We are aiming for world class performance of these systems with high attention to energy efficiency and sustainability. Therefore we need to further expand our knowledge and capability within modelling and simulations of inverter system performance using latest technology tools and methods.

Scope of the thesis work

A 3-level inverter topology combining GaN and SiC devices presents an intriguing approach for high-efficiency this concept SiC MOSFETs manage high-voltage high-current stresses while GaN devices operate at higher frequencies to shape the waveform and reduce losses. This hybrid approach delivers higher efficiency smaller filters greater power density and lower EMI. Compared to the conventional 2-level converter which is simpler but requires higher-voltage devices and produces larger voltage steps the 3-level topology reduces device stress and improves output quality making it ideal for compact energy-efficient EV converters. By combining SiCs robustness with GaNs fast switching and low losses the design achieves enhanced performance reliability and efficiency.

Objectives
Investigate the feasibility of combining GaN and SiC devices into a 3-level inverter to leverage the strengths of both technologies.
Evaluate potential efficiency improvements and reductions in device stress compared to conventional 2-level converters.
Assess waveform quality EMI and power density benefits associated with hybrid operation.
Identify control strategies necessary for safe and reliable operation of the hybrid topology.

Activities
Literature review and theoretical analysis of hybrid GaNSiC inverter topologies switching strategies and device performance.
Circuit modeling and simulation of a 3-level hybrid inverter to evaluate voltage current and thermal stresses under representative load conditions.
Comparison with conventional 2-level inverter designs
Preliminary hardware prototyping to validate simulation results and investigate practical challenges in layout thermal management and device interaction.

What youll bring

We welcome motivated students with a background in physics and/or electric engineering who are eager to learn and work in advanced engineering projects. It would be good if the student is familiar with simulation tools (i.e. LTSpice PLECS) PCB design tools (i.e. KiCad Altium...). Students should be available fully on-site.

Duration

The work will start in January 2026
The duration for this thesis work is 20 weeks.
30 ECTS (Master academic credits) in agreement with your Thesis Advisor in University
This thesis is to be conducted by 1 Student.