Requirements, Methods and Models for early Electrified Drive Concept Development

Computer-aided synthesis and development tools are essential for discovering and optimizing innovative concepts. Evaluating different concepts and making informed decisions relies heavily on accurate assessments of drive system properties. Estimating these properties in the early stages of development is challenging due to the depth of modelling required. In addition, defined requirements play a critical role in drive system sizing. This paper presents a tool chain for the synthesis of new electrified drive concepts, with emphasis on requirements definition and modelling. The requirements definition method combines market analysis with a generalized calculation and estimation approach, providing a novel perspective. In addition, we introduce mass and cost modelling capabilities integrated into the tool chain. The mass model achieves high accuracy, with deviations of only 1.6% at the vehicle level and 6.1% at the component level. Finally, the paper examines the mass and cost implications of various dedicated and add-on hybrid concepts. Dedicated hybrid transmissions have the advantage of lower transmission costs, although this is offset by higher electrical component costs.