The Stuttgart Driving Simulator currently under construction at
the University of Stuttgart makes out the main component of the
University's new automotive research platform. The facility
will be one of the largest of its kind in Europe. The simulator is
based on a powerful eight axes motion system to realistically
recreate the linear and rotary motion as perceived by the driver
during a real trip. To add further value to the driving simulator,
it is designed to house a real vehicle which can be easily
exchanged - from small passenger cars up to large luxury sedan
vehicles as well as SUVs. To assure a sound testing environment,
the driving simulator features a realistic graphical and acoustic
representation of the vehicle environment such as roadway,
environment, and traffic. This is achieved through a complex
surround visualization system with very high level of detail as
well as an advanced spatial acoustic noise generator. Additional to
this, high-quality dynamic force feedback systems at the control
elements (pedals, steering wheel, gear stick, etc.) ensures a
realistic vehicle and driver milieu.
The research platform currently set up is predominantly
specialized for energetic topics within the automotive research and
development and hence well suited for contemporary topics like
sustainable mobility. A major research topic will cover the field
of driver influences. With the measurement vehicle, as a further
component of the research platform, a first, for German conditions
representative study, has been conducted. The acquisition of the
driving resistances and power flows in IC, the onboard electrical
system, auxiliaries, exhaust system, and cooling system during real
drives confirms the strong influence of the driver on the fuel
consumption and thus the CO₂ emissions. On average, the driver
accounts for a 6.5% fuel consumption variation and in a standard
situation variations in fuel consumption up to 65% due to driving
style have been measured. Based on the knowledge about the saving
potential in various driving situations, appropriate assistance
systems can be designed and qualitatively and quantitatively tested
and verified in the new driving simulator environment.