Why separate charging electronics?

[bwilson4web]

I've been wondering why there are separate charging electronics to connect to the grid when the motor power electronics have a similar capability, AC-to-DC and DC-to-AC, at a higher power levels than the typical 120/210-240 VAC grid voltage?

The only justification I can come up with is the electrical grid is a noisy place and a separate, single-phase charger would minimize the risk to the three phase motor power electronics. Since lightning is a major grid risk, we lost a TV 15 years ago after a nearby lightning strike, are there any reports of losing charger electronics during a lightning storm?

The advantage of using the motor power electronics is it becomes a natural grid-to-car, two-way, converter. With a proper, high speed, isolation switch, the car could keep the house powered during a power outage. Those of us with plug-in hybrids could sustain the charge and house power using the engine powered generator.

Thanks,
Bob Wilson

 

[jdbob]

I think the original Renault Zoe had something like that. For some reason they dropped that idea in newer models.

http://www.plugincars.com/fast-charging-ev-acdc-questions-and-renaults-answers-125421.html

 

[Domenick]

Not sure if I'm completely following. Are you asking why more don't use the inverter as a charger, like the AC Propulsion Reductive Charger?

 

[bwilson4web]

Not sure if I'm completely following. Are you asking why more don't use the inverter as a charger, like the AC Propulsion Reductive Charger?

Thanks!

I need to to read the details but yes, this is the right idea. One thing technical aspect is 'noise management' to avoid inducing switching effects on the grid power when charging.

Bob Wilson