Configuration of Electric Vehicles for Specific Applications from a Holistic Perspective

Abstract

Electrification of heavy-duty vehicles (HDVs) used for passengers and goods transportation is a key strategy to reduce the high levels of air pollution in large urban centers. However, the high investment cost of the commercially available electrified HDVs has limited their adoption. We hypothesized that there are applications where the operation with tailored electrified HDVs results in a lower total cost of ownership and lower well-to-wheel emissions of air pollutants, with higher acceleration capacity and energy efficiency than the fossil-fueled counterparts. The road transportation services running on fixed routes with short span distances (<50 km), such as the last mile cargo distribution and the passenger shuttle services, is a clear example with a high possibility of cost reduction through tailored electric HDVs. In this work, we present a methodology to define the most appropriate configuration of the powertrain of an electric vehicle for any given application. As a case study, this work aimed to define an electric powertrain configuration tailored for a university shuttle service application. A multi-objective weighted-sum optimization was performed to define the best geometrical gearbox ratios, energy management strategy, size of the motor, and batteries required. Based on three different driving profiles and five battery technologies, the results showed that, based on a 50 km autonomy, the obtained powertrain configuration satisfies the current vehicle operation with a reduced cost in every driving profile and battery technology compared. Furthermore, by using lithium-based batteries, the vehicle’s acceleration capacity is improved by 33% while reducing energy consumption by 37%, CO2 emissions by 31%, and the total cost of ownership by 29% when compared to the current diesel-fueled buses.

A Critical Comparison of the Cuk and the Sheppard–Taylor Converter

“…Furthermore, Sheppard-Taylor converters provide good load regulation and a fast transient response, ensuring stable power delivery to electric vehicle systems. In addition, because this circuit is capable of processing small voltage inputs [36], a Sheppard-Taylor configuration is possible in applications where systems require low voltage, such as the last-mile cargo distribution [37]. This is important for maintaining consistent performance and protecting the battery and other electronic components.…”

Numerical Study of Reinforced Aluminum Composites for Steering Knuckles in Last-Mile Electric Vehicles

“…A study in Canada concluded that more than 65% of medium-duty trucks must be electrified by 2040 due the rigorous regulations for fuel-efficient diesel trucks [1]. Electrification potential studies are carried out considering the following specifications: (1) for medium and heavy rigid trucks, a battery capacity of 150-250−350 kWh must be implemented, while semitrailer and articulated trucks must hold 400-600−800 kW h of battery capacity; (2) based on the gravimetric density of batteries with 120-240−360 W h/kg, the weight is projected to be 850 kg for rigid trucks and 1700 kg for heavier trucks; and (3) a charging power of 22-50-150 kW with time of 8 h (overnight) and on-road recharging power of 50-150−250-400 kW with a time of 2 h during the day must be provided.…”

“…Heavy-duty vehicles for last-mile cargo distribution are potential alternatives to electrification due to the short journey lengths (less than 50 km) and fixed routes [2]. The lightweight design of suspension components plays a key role in vehicle efficiency.…”