Predictive eco-cruise control: Algorithm and potential benefits

A vehicle predictive eco-cruise control system is developed that minimizes vehicle fuel consumption levels utilizing roadway topographic information. The predictive eco-cruise control system consists of three components: a fuel consumption model, a powertrain model, and an optimization algorithm. The developed system generates an optimal vehicle control plan using anticipated roadway grade information so that the vehicle can vary its speed within a preset speed window in a fuel-saving manner. The developed system is tested by simulating a vehicle trip on synthetic roadway profiles and compared to a conventional cruise control system performance. Finally, the potential benefits of the predictive eco-cruise control system are quantified for the entire United States.