Improved Stability and Manoeuvrability using Electric Propulsion - Phase 2

Purpose and goal

The purpose of this study was to investigate, develop and evaluate new safety enhancing features based on vehicles with electric propulsion. The task in the project was to develop implementable algorithms for different driving cases and then verify their performance in selected traffic scenarios, through simulation and vehicle testing. A number of safety enhancing features have been identified. Detailed studies of selected driving cases indicate significant safety potential for these features.

Expected results and effects

A number of driving situations have been studied. Examples of these are evasive maneuvers in the presence of oncoming traffic, rear-end collisions and intersection accidents. In all these scenarios, features based on electric propulsion have shown positive effects. By controlling vehicle speed, accidents can be avoided. In addition to demonstrating the safety potential of the developed features, the project also delivers technical software solutions. An expected future effect is that car manufacturers will add safety enhancement features to their electrified vehicles.

Planned approach and implementation

In this project, the main task has been to develop control algorithms and software for vehicle implementation and to show the improvement potential, both theoretically by means of simulation and with vehicle testing. For the theoretical analysis, validated vehicle models from Volvo Cars have been used. Vehicle tests of the developed softwares have been completed with a specially equipped test car. All tests have been conducted on closed test tracks. With the help of simulation as well as car tests, the safety enhancement potential of the developed functions has been verified.