Improved Powertrain Control for an HE-HMMWV

This study aims to improve the overall efficiency of a series hybrid-electric vehicle. A modular simulation structure for the model is developed allowing flexibility to implement different control methods in future research. A sliding mode control (SMC) strategy is developed to operate the engine near its highest efficiency region. The SMC requires only a basic model of the engine and provides robustness to parameter and model variations and/or uncertainties. The system is simulated using a Matlab based model. The performance of the engine with the new SMC is compared with that obtained with a standard PI controller. Improved performance is obtained with the new approach in terms of overall and average engine efficiency and miles per gallon, while maintaining a higher average battery state-of-charge.