Reducing Fuel Consumption by Using Information from Connected and Automated Vehicle Modules to Optimize Propulsion System Control

Global regulatory targets and customer demand are driving the automotive industry to improve vehicle fuel efficiency. Methods for achieving increased efficiency include improvements in the internal combustion engine and an accelerating shift toward electrification. A key enabler to maximizing the benefit from these new powertrain technologies is proper systems integration work - including developing optimized controls for the propulsion system as a whole. The next step in the evolution of improving the propulsion management system is to make use of available information not typically associated with the powertrain. Advanced driver assistance systems, vehicle connectivity systems and cloud applications can provide information to the propulsion management system that allows a shift from instantaneous optimization of fuel consumption, to optimization over a route. In the current paper, we present initial work from a project being done as part of the DOE ARPA-E NEXTCAR program. We describe the NEXTCAR program objectives, including the mechanization and build of a demonstration vehicle. As the focus is on real-world fuel economy benefits, the criteria for, and development of, a set of route scenarios is described. In order to be able to develop the necessary optimization logic, and evaluate the benefits on route scenarios beyond those tested in-vehicle, a simulation model of the vehicle and the optimization controls has been developed and is discussed, including correlation testing results and simulated fuel economy benefits. Finally, initial results from the development vehicle running route scenarios on a test track are presented.