RHODaS project aims to improve the efficiency of electric Integrated Motor Drive (IMD) powertrains for multiple wheel drive architectures for heavy-duty long-haul vehicles, while reducing their size and cost by using novel semiconductor materials, optimal thermal management strategies and disruptive topologies of power converters in a modular approach. Improved resilience will be achieved thanks to the application of intelligent control and diagnostics techniques, as well as (data driven) predictive maintenance of the powertrain system and components.

Ecodesign and circularity concepts are deeply studied and applied in RHODaS for the fabrication and end-of-life strategies, e.g., repair, reuse, refurbishment and recycling of these power converters and their components, which are optimised thanks to the application of cutting-edge digital tools, to improve the environmental performance to a further extent. The integration of the LCA and LCC models developed in the project in the Digital Twin, make possible to develop Decision Support Systems that will determine the end of life of the materials and components and suggest the best route for its reuse or, if not possible, direct recycling, increasing the effectiveness and automation of these circular processes.