EU project RHODaS develops new power converters for heavy-duty electric trucks to cut emissions

The EU-funded RHODaS project has developed a new generation of power converters for heavy-duty electric vehicles, aiming to tackle a major source of transport emissions. Heavy-duty trucks account for nearly 40% of road CO2 in Europe, but electrifying them has been held back by the limits of conventional silicon-based power electronics. RHODaS uses wide-bandgap materials like silicon carbide and gallium nitride to build converters that switch at over 100 kHz with much lower losses, enabling high-power-density systems suited for long-haul trucking. The project's central innovation is an integrated motor drive that combines power electronics, thermal management, and digital controls in a compact modular housing. This design improves efficiency, reduces volume, and cuts electromagnetic interference. The modular approach also makes repairs easier and allows the same system to be scaled for different power needs. The team validated the technology in three stages: material-level testing, lab-scale converter trials, and a full-scale drive coupled with a gearbox in a test bench. Next steps include scaling the modular drive for more vehicle types and integrating it into partners' roadmaps, including Valeo Siemens. The consortium is also refining circular business models like product-as-a-service and digital vehicle passports to support maintenance and second-life use. The project contributes to the EU Green Deal targets and aims to strengthen Europe's supply chain for power electronics, reducing reliance on non-EU manufacturers.