Experimental Characterisation of a Super-capacitor Based Electrical Torque Boost System for Down-sized ICE Vehicles

The need to improve fuel economy and reduce the emission of CO₂ and other harmful pollution from internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles has led to engine down-sizing. However, down-sized, turbocharged engines exhibit a relatively low torque capability at low engine speeds. To overcome this problem, an electrical torque boost may be employed whilst accelerating and changing gear, and to facilitate energy recovery during regenerative braking. The paper describes the operational requirements of a super-capacitor based torque boost system, outlines the design and sizing of the electrical drive train components, and presents experimental characterisation of a demonstrator system