Multi-wheel drive vehicle energy/fuel efficiency and traction performance: Objective function analysis

Abstract This paper presents the results of a mathematical analysis, computational results, and experimental data related to the multi-wheel drive vehicle energy/fuel efficiency and vehicle tractive and velocity operational properties evaluation. Power distributions to the drive wheels provided by vehicle driveline systems are the major factors in pre-determining the vehicle energy/fuel efficiency. The objective function mathematical analysis has led to some important practical recommendations for designing better driveline systems. Generally, the maximum efficiency of a vehicle is provided by wheel power distributions that are under unequal slips of the vehicle tires. However, optimum driveline systems are expected to be designed in a way that leads to the same slips for all the tires. The mathematical analysis, computational results, and experimental data are presented in a combination with the results of a century-long scientific discussion on the problem under consideration. Details are in the paper.

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