The introduction of inverter fed induction motor traction systems provides benefits of less maintenance and saving energy consumption on electrical railway systems. Recently advanced 3.3kV Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistors (IGBTs) promotes downsizing and more reliability on power traction converters on board. On the other hand, innovative technologies are being expected to apply to power conversion systems, in order to improve their technical features. In this paper, we review the progress of the power electronics technologies for railway vehicle traction and introduce the state of the arts. Then we present perspectives of the future development of the traction circuit control technologies.

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