Fuel cell drive train topologies - computer analysis of potential systems

Knowledge as to the optimal design, cost and efficiency of fuel cell powered vehicles is rudimentary. Additionally the data which does exist is fragmentary being scattered across many sources, scientific papers, government reports, patents and industrial products. Surprisingly, few studies have integrated these elements into a cohesive review of the entire drive train [1]. This study developed simulation models for eight different types of drive train topologies based on a common vehicle chassis. Fuel cell, fuel cell hybrid and electric drive trains were simulated to compare and contrast the performance of each different vehicle type. The models were tested with two different driving cycles and subjected to a range of performance tests. The aim of the testing was to evaluate the performance and efficiency of each topology and select a topology to carry forward for further optimisation work aimed at improving the cost, efficiency and marketability of the fuel cell vehicle.