Integrated Vehicle Weight Optimization and Endurance Validation Process Based on Wheel Forces

Vehicle weight optimization is a time and cost consuming step in vehicle development. Significant improvements of this iterative process are possible through integration of numerical and experimental simulation technologies as well as testing on the road. One of the key elements in that optimization is to use wheel forces instead of other physical quantities.

This paper discribes essential elements of an integrated process and illustrates that with the experiences of Porsche AG, which in 1996 stepped forward to latest technology in this field by implementation of wheel force measurements into its product development and endurance evaluation process.