This paper describes the optimization of the layout and of the control strategy of through-the-road (TTR) parallel hybrid electric vehicles equipped with two compression-ignition engines that feature different values of maximum output power.
First, a tool has been developed to define the optimal layout of each TTR vehicle. This is based on the minimization of the powertrain and fuel cost over a 10-year time span, taking into account the fuel consumption. Several performance requirements are guaranteed during the optimization, namely maximum vehicle velocity, 0-100 km/h acceleration time, gradeability and the all-electric range.
A benchmark optimizer that is based on the dynamic programming theory has been developed to identify the optimal working mode and the gear number, which are the control variables of the problem. A mathematical technique, based on the pre-processing of a configuration matrix, has been developed in order to speed up the calculation time.
After the layout optimization, the potential of the two identified hybrid vehicles in improving the fuel economy, compared with the conventional vehicle, has been analyzed and discussed over several driving missions, i.e., the New European Driving Cycle, the Artemis Urban Driving Cycle, the Artemis Rural Driving Cycle, the Artemis Motorway Driving Cycle and the Federal Test Procedure. The contributions related to the vehicle electrification and to the control strategy were identified separately.
Finally, a real-time optimizer has also been developed, which is based on the instantaneous maximization of an equivalent powertrain efficiency.