International Research Journal of Engineering and Technology (IRJET) e-ISSN: 2395-0056

Volume: 12 Issue: 05 | May 2025 www.irjet.net p-ISSN: 2395-0072

Simulation of Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor for Electric

Vehicle Application
Kagithala Sangeetha1, T.Lingaiah2, M.Rajyalakshmi3

1 Student, Dept of EEE at GVR College, Andhra Pradesh, India

2Associate professor, Dept of EEE at GVR College, Andhra Pradesh, India
3Assistant professor, Dept of EEE at GVR College, Andhra Pradesh, India

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Abstract - The increasing global demand for energy- decrease reliance on fossil fuels. Electric vehicles (EVs) have
efficient and environmentally sustainable transportation emerged as a pivotal solution in this transition, offering a
solutions has intensified research into advanced electric drive cleaner and more sustainable alternative to conventional
systems, particularly for electric vehicle (EV) applications. internal combustion engine vehicles. Central to the
Among the various motor technologies available, the performance and efficiency of EVs is the electric propulsion
Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor (PMSM) has emerged system, where the choice of motor technology plays a critical
as a leading candidate due to its high power density, superior role.
efficiency, compact structure, and excellent torque-to-current
characteristics. This research paper presents a comprehensive Among the various electric motor technologies, the
simulation-based analysis of PMSM performance tailored for Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor (PMSM) has
electric vehicle applications. Using MATLAB/Simulink as the garnered significant attention and adoption in EV
primary simulation platform, a detailed dynamic model of the applications. PMSMs are renowned for their high power
PMSM is developed and integrated with an inverter-based density, superior efficiency, compact size, and excellent
control system employing Field-Oriented Control (FOC) torque characteristics, making them well-suited for the
techniques. The simulation framework replicates real-world dynamic requirements of electric propulsion systems. The
operating conditions, including dynamic load variations, utilization of permanent magnets in the rotor eliminates the
regenerative braking, and speed control profiles typical of need for external excitation, thereby reducing energy losses
urban and highway driving scenarios. and enhancing overall system efficiency.

The proposed model is evaluated on key performance The integration of PMSMs into EVs necessitates advanced
metrics such as torque ripple, current response, speed control strategies to manage the complex dynamics of the
regulation, and overall system efficiency. The simulation motor and ensure optimal performance across various
results validate the effectiveness of the FOC strategy in operating conditions. Field-Oriented Control (FOC) has
achieving precise control, reduced torque fluctuations, and emerged as a prominent technique in this context, enabling
improved drive responsiveness. Additionally, the model precise control of torque and flux by decoupling the stator
demonstrates the scalability and adaptability of PMSM current components. FOC facilitates smooth and responsive
configurations for a broad range of EV platforms. This study motor operation, which is essential for the performance
reinforces the pivotal role of PMSMs in the electrification of expectations of modern EVs.
the automotive sector and provides a foundational simulation
Simulation plays a vital role in the development and
model for future development and optimization of electric
optimization of PMSM-based drive systems for EVs. By
drive systems. The insights gained from this work serve as a
creating detailed models of the motor and its control
valuable reference for researchers and engineers engaged in
systems, engineers can analyze performance, identify
the design and deployment of high-performance EV propulsion
potential issues, and refine designs before physical
systems.
prototypes are built. MATLAB/Simulink has become a widely
Key Words: Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor, PMSM, used platform for such simulations, offering a versatile
Electric Vehicle, EV, MATLAB/Simulink, Field-Oriented environment for modeling electrical, mechanical, and control
Control, FOC, Dynamic Simulation, Torque Ripple, Speed components of EV propulsion systems.
Control, Inverter, Regenerative Braking, Electric Drive
Recent research has focused on enhancing the fidelity and
System, Motor Efficiency, Propulsion System Optimization.
applicability of PMSM simulations for EV applications. For
instance, a study by Zhang et al. (2022) introduced an open-
1.INTRODUCTION
source vehicle dynamics simulation platform based on
The global transportation sector is undergoing a Simulink, incorporating a 27-degree-of-freedom model that
transformative shift, driven by the imperative to reduce includes detailed representations of the vehicle body,
greenhouse gas emissions, enhance energy efficiency, and suspension, tires, drive, and brake systems. This platform

© 2025, IRJET | Impact Factor value: 8.315 | ISO 9001:2008 Certified Journal | Page 243
 International Research Journal of Engineering and Technology (IRJET) e-ISSN: 2395-0056
Volume: 12 Issue: 05 | May 2025 www.irjet.net p-ISSN: 2395-0072

supports the simulation of both traditional and electric A PMSM operates based on the principle of synchronous
vehicles, providing a flexible tool for researchers and rotation between the stator magnetic field and rotor
engineers to analyze vehicle dynamics under various permanent magnets. Unlike induction motors that rely on
scenarios. induced current in the rotor, PMSMs achieve excitation
directly through permanent magnets, minimizing rotor
Another critical aspect of PMSM application in EVs is copper losses and improving energy efficiency. These motors
thermal management. The high power density and compact also exhibit a linear torque-speed characteristic up to the
design of PMSMs can lead to significant heat generation, base speed and possess the capability of operating in the
which, if not properly managed, can affect performance and constant power region via field weakening, a desirable
longevity. Studies have employed coupled electromagnetic attribute for automotive traction applications.
and thermal simulations using tools like Ansys Maxwell and
Ansys Fluent to predict temperature distributions and However, the control of PMSMs is inherently more
design effective cooling systems. Such analyses are crucial complex than that of conventional DC or induction motors.
for ensuring the reliability and safety of PMSM-based drive As the rotor position is critical for effective commutation,
systems. position sensing—either via sensors or sensorless
algorithms—is crucial. Sensorless control methods such as
Furthermore, advancements in control strategies have back-EMF estimation or observer-based strategies are often
been explored to enhance the performance of PMSMs in EVs. preferred in high-speed applications to reduce system cost
Sliding Mode Control (SMC) and its higher-order variants and improve reliability.
have been investigated for their robustness against
disturbances and parameter variations. These control Field-Oriented Control (FOC), also referred to as vector
methods aim to maintain optimal motor performance under control, has emerged as the most effective control strategy
varying load conditions and during regenerative braking, for PMSMs. FOC allows decoupled control of the motor's flux
which is a key feature in EVs for energy recovery. and torque-producing currents, mimicking the control
philosophy of a DC motor while achieving superior dynamic
The adoption of PMSMs in EVs is also influenced by performance. By transforming the stator currents into a
material considerations, particularly the use of rare earth rotating reference frame aligned with the rotor flux, FOC
elements in permanent magnets. While these materials enhances the responsiveness of the drive system and
contribute to the superior performance of PMSMs, they also ensures smoother torque delivery, which is particularly
pose challenges related to cost and supply chain beneficial during start-up, acceleration, and regenerative
sustainability. Research is ongoing to develop alternative braking phases in EVs.
magnet materials and motor designs that reduce
dependence on rare earth elements without compromising
performance.

This research paper aims to contribute to this field by

presenting a comprehensive simulation study of a PMSM-
based drive system for EV applications. The study involves
the development of a detailed motor model in
MATLAB/Simulink, implementation of advanced control
strategies, and analysis of performance metrics such as
torque ripple, speed regulation, and thermal behavior. The
findings are expected to provide valuable insights for the
design and optimization of PMSM drive systems in electric
vehicles.

The transition to electric mobility has placed immense Fig -1: Interior PMSM
emphasis on the efficiency, controllability, and sustainability
of electric drivetrain components. One of the key challenges To validate the theoretical control strategies and
faced by EV designers is selecting an electric motor that hardware configurations before physical implementation,
balances performance, cost, reliability, and ease of control. simulation-based design has become an indispensable part
Various motor technologies such as Induction Motors (IM), of modern motor development cycles. Platforms such as
Brushless DC Motors (BLDC), Switched Reluctance Motors MATLAB/Simulink provide an integrated environment for
(SRM), and Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motors (PMSM) modeling motor dynamics, control systems, and power
have been evaluated for automotive traction. Among them, electronic interfaces. A typical simulation framework
PMSMs have gained dominance due to their exceptional includes the motor model, inverter topology, control logic
torque density, high efficiency at varying loads, and (e.g., FOC algorithm), and external vehicle load dynamics.
relatively simpler thermal management. This modular approach enables engineers to test and

© 2025, IRJET | Impact Factor value: 8.315 | ISO 9001:2008 Certified Journal | Page 244
 International Research Journal of Engineering and Technology (IRJET) e-ISSN: 2395-0056
Volume: 12 Issue: 05 | May 2025 www.irjet.net p-ISSN: 2395-0072

optimize each subsystem independently and collectively 2. Simulations

under various drive conditions.

Moreover, simulations are essential for studying fault-

tolerant operation, thermal stress analysis, torque ripple
minimization, and harmonic distortion—all of which
influence the longevity and safety of the motor-drive system
in EVs. For example, PMSMs are particularly susceptible to
torque ripple due to the interaction between stator teeth and
rotor magnets. Excessive ripple not only affects drive
smoothness but also accelerates mechanical wear. Advanced
pulse width modulation (PWM) techniques and optimized
stator winding configurations can be simulated and analyzed
to minimize this effect.

In recent years, the incorporation of artificial intelligence

(AI) and machine learning (ML) into motor control has
opened new avenues for real-time parameter estimation,
predictive maintenance, and adaptive control. Simulation
environments are now being used to train neural networks
on large datasets to enable model predictive control (MPC)
and other intelligent strategies. These approaches promise Fig -2: Simulation
improved performance under non-linear and uncertain
operating conditions typical of EV drive cycles. Sample paragraph Define abbreviations and acronyms the
first time they are used in the text, even after they have been
The growing adoption of high-voltage battery systems in defined in the abstract. Abbreviations such as IEEE, SI, MKS,
EVs, typically in the range of 400V to 800V, also presents CGS, sc, dc, and rms do not have to be defined. Do not use
challenges and opportunities for PMSM integration. Higher abbreviations in the title or heads unless they are
voltages reduce current levels for a given power output, unavoidable.
minimizing conductor losses and allowing for more compact
inverter and motor designs. However, they necessitate After the text edit has been completed, the paper is ready for
robust insulation design and EMI mitigation strategies, both the template. Duplicate the template file by using the Save As
of which can be rigorously tested in a simulation command, and use the naming convention prescribed by your
environment. conference for the name of your paper. In this newly created
file, highlight all of the contents and import your prepared
Thermal modeling is another critical component of PMSM text file. You are now ready to style your paper.
simulation, especially for high-performance automotive
applications. Motor losses, including copper losses, iron 3. CONCLUSIONS
losses, and stray losses, generate heat that must be
This study demonstrates the critical role of Permanent
dissipated efficiently to avoid degradation of magnetic
Magnet Synchronous Motors (PMSMs) in advancing electric
materials and insulation systems. Coupled electromagnetic-
vehicle (EV) performance through efficient, high-torque, and
thermal simulations help predict hot spots within the motor
compact motor solutions. By simulating PMSM operation
structure and assess the effectiveness of cooling mechanisms
using MATLAB/Simulink and implementing Field-Oriented
such as air or liquid cooling channels. These insights are
Control (FOC), the motor's dynamic response, torque
essential for designing motors that can withstand prolonged
behavior, and speed control were effectively analyzed. The
high-load conditions without compromising reliability.
results affirm PMSM’s suitability for EV applications, offering
From a system integration perspective, the PMSM must be high efficiency and precise control. Simulation-based
seamlessly interfaced with the power electronics converter analysis not only accelerates design optimization but also
(typically an IGBT or MOSFET-based inverter), the battery reduces development costs. Future work may explore
management system (BMS), and the vehicle control unit advanced control algorithms, rare-earth-free magnet
(VCU). Simulation aids in developing coordinated control alternatives, and integrated thermal-electromagnetic
algorithms across these subsystems, ensuring that the motor modeling to enhance the robustness and sustainability of
responds efficiently to driver commands while maintaining PMSM-driven EV systems.
energy efficiency and component safety.

© 2025, IRJET | Impact Factor value: 8.315 | ISO 9001:2008 Certified Journal | Page 245
 International Research Journal of Engineering and Technology (IRJET) e-ISSN: 2395-0056
Volume: 12 Issue: 05 | May 2025 www.irjet.net p-ISSN: 2395-0072

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