Modelling and real-time simulations of electric propulsion systems

This paper presents an advanced modelling of an Electric Propulsion System (EPS) for light-duty Electric Vehicles (EVs). It is developed within the Matlab Simulink environment by taking into account suitable models of each EPS components, namely the energy storage system, the electrical drive and the transmission system, as well as the overall vehicle model. Particularly, a Li-ion battery is considered, which supplies a Permanent Magnet Synchronous Machine (PMSM) through a two-level DC/AC converter. The latter is driven by a PI-based control system, which assures adequate PMSM performances at any speed within its operating speed range. Vehicle modelling is introduced as well, i.e. the PMSM is coupled to EV wheels through a single-gear transmission system. The proposed modelling approach is validated through both conventional and real-time simulations, the latter being carried out by interfacing Matlab Simulink with an OPAL-RT device.