An alternator system (50, 52) that, in one aspect, utilizes a Lundell style alternator that is augmented by power electronic switching components (62) in the output section. In one embodiment, some of these power switching embodiments employ a scaling of stator turns and wire size to achieve the superior performance at higher speeds. The alternator system provides significantly enhanced power capability above idle as compared with classical Lundell alternator systems using Lundell alternators of the same size that are designed with the same power capability at idle. In one preferred dual voltage embodiment, a power switch (semi-conductor) connects the alternator output directly to the low voltage load at low engine speeds and when the power switch is ''opened'' at higher speeds, the alternator's power is channeled to the higher voltage. In a 14-volt/42-volt dual-voltage system, this arrangement provides triple the alternator's power capability at high speeds as compared to a conventional unenhanced capabilities of the altenator system of the present invention are accomplished without increasing the alternator size or required current capacity and without using high frequency semiconductor power modulation (106). |