The application of hybridization technology is now widely
regarded as a significant step forward to reduce fuel consumption
and hence CO₂ emissions for ground vehicles. Many programs and much
research has been done on these technologies in the automotive
market, however little work has been done in the very cost
sensitive market sector of the small motorcycle.
This paper introduces and discusses the application of a
low-cost hybrid technology to small motorcycles and scooters, and
reviews some of the initial trade-offs through the use of a new
hybrid simulation model developed at Cranfield University.
The study being presented assessed the existing Energy Storage
Systems (ESS) in the market. This list was reduced, omitting
options which posed a clear safety or cost risk, or solutions which
would disproportionally increased the Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW).
Also omitted were storage options which could not be production
ready in the near term, 3 - 5 years. Applicable hybrid platform
topologies were then assessed and most appropriate selected; a
series Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) with a power following
strategy, and a short range parallel Plug-in Hybrid Electric
Vehicle (PHEV).
A systems level model was then developed reflecting a baseline
mechanical-powered vehicle, and applicable drive cycles were
selected to benchmark this vehicle. Models were built of the two
hybrid topologies mentioned with parameterization capability
regarding the ESS mass, capacity and peak power. Thus the models
were used to show the most appropriate ESS in terms of GVW impact
and cost while maintaining the performance targets set by the
baseline vehicle over the pre-selected drive cycles.