Thesis work

Thesis Worker at Volvo Cars

Welcome to explore the world of Volvo Cars by writing your thesis with us As a thesis worker in our organization you are supported by a supervisor who follows you during your project. Through your thesis work you will be able to contribute to our company purpose – providing freedom to move in a safe, sustainable and personal way – from day one

As part of Volvo Cars Electrification Strategy, The Power Electronics department within Vehicle Propulsion is developing Power Electronics for Traction Inverter in both hardware and software areas.

We are aiming for world class performance of these systems with high attention to energy efficiency and sustainability. Therefore, we need to further expand our knowledge and capability within modelling and simulations of inverter system performance using latest technology tools and methods.

A 3-level inverter topology combining GaN and SiC devices presents an intriguing approach for high-efficiency drives. In this concept, SiC MOSFETs manage high-voltage, high-current stresses, while GaN devices operate at higher frequencies to shape the waveform and reduce losses. This hybrid approach delivers higher efficiency, smaller filters, greater power density, and lower EMI. Compared to the conventional 2-level converter, which is simpler but requires higher-voltage devices and produces larger voltage steps, the 3-level topology reduces device stress and improves output quality, making it ideal for compact, energy-efficient EV converters. By combining SiC's robustness with GaN's fast switching and low losses, the design achieves enhanced performance, reliability, and efficiency.

Objectives

• Investigate the feasibility of combining GaN and SiC devices into a 3-level inverter to leverage the strengths of both technologies.
• Evaluate potential efficiency improvements and reductions in device stress compared to conventional 2-level converters.
• Assess waveform quality, EMI, and power density benefits associated with hybrid operation.
• Identify control strategies necessary for safe and reliable operation of the hybrid topology.

Activities

• Literature review and theoretical analysis of hybrid GaN–SiC inverter topologies, switching strategies, and device performance.
• Circuit modeling and simulation of a 3-level hybrid inverter to evaluate voltage, current, and thermal stresses under representative load conditions.
• Comparison with conventional 2-level inverter designs
• Preliminary hardware prototyping to validate simulation results and investigate practical challenges in layout, thermal management, and device interaction.

We welcome motivated students with a background in physics and/or electric engineering who are eager to learn and work in advanced engineering projects. It would be good if the student is familiar with simulation tools (i.e. LTSpice, PLECS), PCB design tools (i.e. KiCad, Altium...). Students should be available fully on-site.

• The work will start in January 2026
• The duration for this thesis work is 20 weeks.
• 30 ECTS (Master academic credits) in agreement with your Thesis Advisor in University
• This thesis is to be conducted by 1 Student.

Volvo Cars. For Life.

For nearly a century, Volvo Cars has empowered people to move freely in a personal, sustainable and safe way. Today, we are driving bold advancements in electrification, sustainability and automotive safety. To realize our ambitious vision, we are seeking innovative minds who are ready to tackle the challenges of tomorrow – today.

In our company, we believe extraordinary things are achieved by ordinary people with the drive to make a difference.

Ready to take the next step?

Applications should include your CV and a brief personal letter stating your interests within the given area and your thoughts and credentials. Submit your CV in English.

Applications must be received no later than 5th of December 2025. We are prioritising direct applications to ensure a fair and efficient application process.

For questions regarding the recruitment process, please contact Recruiter Radoslaw Piela at

For specific questions about the position, please reach out to Hiring Manager Riccardo Negri at or to Pengpeng Sun at , or Olcay Balaman at

Welcome with your application