Method for Reducing Uncertainties of Predictive Range Estimation Algorithms in Electric Vehicles

This paper investigates problems that arise with the availability of trip-based range estimation when displaying it as an alternative or in addition to history-based range estimation data in the vehicle and proposes a method to significantly improve the overall usability and reliability of a comprehensive range display system. It is demonstrated that even with the use of a perfect trip-based energy prediction to a given destination, the displayed range of an electric vehicle can still vary significantly. The main cause for these uncertainties is discussed and a new method to improve the overall performance of a range estimation system by using trip-based energy consumption to virtually preadapt the history-based range estimation algorithm is proposed. The results of multiple simulations are used to illustrate the function of the proposed method and demonstrate the potential for improvements in future range estimation algorithms.