Hybrid excitation synchronous machines (HESMs) inherit the high-torque density of permanent magnet synchronous machines and flux regulation capability of wound rotor synchronous machines. This makes HESMs attractive candidates for vehicle traction applications. To further improve torque density, an optimised HESM with magnet shunting rotor is proposed in this study. This study presents a maximum torque control strategy with zero d-axis current. Furthermore, an optimised control strategy that utilises the coordinated operation between the field current and d-axis current is proposed. The optimised control strategy exhibits advantages of low-speed high-torque, wide constant power range, and high efficiency in flux-weakening (FW) region. A 100 kW drive system based on the optimised HESM with the proposed control strategy is developed, experimentally realised, and validated. The experimental results show that the FW range is 3.5-1, and the efficiency of the drive system is >92% in most operating region, which verify the superiority and effectiveness of the proposed HESM drive system.