Modelling the acceleration and braking characteristics of a fuel-cell electric sports vehicle equipped with an ultracapacitor

Abstract The traditional method of assessing the performance of a hybrid electric power-train is to construct a backward-facing model of the vehicle and then to exercise that model over a number of different legislative and ‘real-world’ drive cycles. Because of the low rates of acceleration and braking associated with such drive cycles, the effect of tyre dynamics on vehicle performance and powertrain efficiency, including that of regenerative braking, have been generally ignored in previous studies. Contained within this paper is the design of a detailed mathematical, physics-based model of a lightweight fuel-cell hybrid sports vehicle. The model is appropriate for studying the dynamic performance of the powertrain during periods of high acceleration and regenerative braking that are commensurate with the use of the vehicle as a sports car. The model characterizes both the electrical subsystems within the powertrain and the mechanical components including the longitudinal dynamics of the tyres. Simulation results show that, during rapid acceleration and braking, the effect of tyre losses on the performance and energy efficiency of the powertrain cannot be neglected. In addition, control objectives for the vehicle are also identified that aim to maximize the potential benefits associated with the integration of fuel-cell and ultracapacitor technology.

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