Evaluation of energy efficient control strategies using the KTH Research Concept Vehicle at AstaZero

Purpose and goal

The overall purpose is to study and develop energy-efficient cornering strategies for electrified vehicles with different degrees of active control of propulsion and steering. The aim with this project is to test and evaluate theoretically developed energy-efficient control strategies when implemented in the KTH Research Concept Vehicle. The measurements show how different settings on the vehicle in combination with various manoeuvres affect energy consumption and that there is therefore a potential for active control of vehicle energy reduction when cornering.

Expected results and effects

Measurement data for the two test vehicles have been collected under various driving conditions. With the help of the results of the tests carried out, the theoretical models for a vehicle traveling resistance have been validated. This will provide guidance for the development of energy efficient strategies that provide low energy consumption without sacrificing safety and comfort. The measurement results have also been used in two theses and a doctoral project. KTH Vehicle Dynamics has now recruited a PhD student to continue working in the field.

Planned approach and implementation

Several experimental tests on the test facility AstaZero outside Borås have been implemented. The tests were carried out with two test vehicles; a test vehicle from Volvo Cars and the KTH KTH Research Concept Vehicle (RCV). Both stationary cornering manoeuvres with different speeds and radius as well as transient manoeuvres at different speeds were performed with and without individual propulsion of the respective wheel. Rain and darkness limited to some extent the amount of test cases but on the whole the experimental attempts were successful.