An Overview of the Development in Electric Motor Control Methods for Electric Cars

In recent decades, the global energy crisis and environmental contamination have escalated due to rising electricity consumption and the proliferation of fuel-dependent vehicles, which are major contributors to greenhouse gas emissions. Electric Vehicles (EVs) have emerged as a key solution to mitigate these challenges, offering a pathway to reduce both emissions and reliance on fossil fuels. This review examines the evolution and current state of electric motor control technologies, focusing on three primary techniques: Field-Oriented Control (FOC), Direct Torque Control (DTC), and Model Predictive Control (MPC). While FOC remains widely adopted due to its proven efficiency and smooth operation, recent advancements in MPC suggest potential for superior dynamic performance, albeit with increased computational complexity and time requirements. DTC, known for its simple design and rapid response, faces limitations such as torque ripple and variable switching frequency. Our analysis highlights that, although MPC offers promising advantages in control flexibility and accuracy, FOC continues to be the most practical choice for electric vehicle motor control systems due to its balance of performance, reliability, and ease of implementation. This review underscores the need for further research to optimize MPC and DTC techniques to fully realize their potential in EV applications, particularly in enhancing energy efficiency and extending component lifespan.