The operating characteristics of a dual-active-bridge (DAB) converter are generally poor when using the single-phase-shift (SPS) control strategy while working with a light load or when the input voltage and the output voltage are not matched with the transformer ratio. To improve DAB operating characteristics when working under such undesirable conditions, a novel one-side single half-bridge pulse-width-modulation plus phase-shift (HPPS) switching strategy is proposed in this study. The operational principle of the strategy is demonstrated, and a suitable power mathematical model is also established. Based on this model, a detailed contrast analysis is conducted to compare HPPS control with SPS control, and includes zero-voltage-switching range comparison, circulating power comparison and root-mean-square current value comparison. A laboratory prototype is constructed, and the validity and feasibility of the proposed HPPS control strategy is verified by the experimental results.