Advancement of hybrid vehicle technology

Toyota has introduced the HV (hybrid vehicle) "PRIUS" into the market in 1997, and in March 2005, they launched the "RX400h" hybrid SUV, which is highly compatible new-generation hybrid system with low fuel consumption and impressive power output by developing THS II (Toyota hybrid system II) that improves high voltage electrical system and control system. This paper introduces the new system incorporated in the THS II and the expectation for the future automobile power electronics technologies. The paper also presents the outstanding characteristics of the PCU (power control unit) of THS II