A Novel Model-Based Approach for Evaluating Multi-Speed Transmission Systems for BEVs

State of the art battery electric vehicles (BEVs) become increasingly attractive, thanks to their top performance and high energy efficiency. Nevertheless, despite improvements in electric motors efficiency and motive batteries technology, there is still space for improving BEVs’ autonomy. Among others, use of a multi-speed, instead of a single-speed transmission system has the potential to optimize BEV’s energy consumption and driving range. In this respect, the scope of this work is to demonstrate a novel model-based approach for evaluating the potential of multi-speed gear box technology. For this purpose, advanced vehicle modeling was combined with statistical analysis tools and an optimization algorithm, with an aim to optimize gear ratios and the respective gear shifting strategy, ultimately maximizing BEV’s autonomy and performance. Respective results allow for an in-depth analysis of the multi-speed transmission system, already at early stages of a BEV development, which can eventually minimize battery electric powertrain system design time and cost.