An aid for teaching hybrid propulsion systems with emphasis on their electric drive unit

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to propose an approach to teach to post‐graduate students the basis of hybrid propulsion systems (HPS) with emphasis on their electric drive unit.Design/methodology/approach – Following the introduction of the basic topologies of HPS, a case study is focused with an analysis of its current features. Of particular interest, those related to the flux‐weakening range extension and the cost‐effectiveness improvement are rethought in an attempt to stimulate the innovative capabilities of the students.Findings – The adopted methodology has been integrated in a master course and has been found attractive and informative by the students.Practical implications – The proposed teaching approach should be complemented by appropriate laboratory courses.Originality/value – Thanks to the proposed methodology, the basis of HPS is no longer restricted to a selected population of the electrical engineering community.