Simulation of a commercial electric vehicle: Dynamic aspects and performance

The introduction of electric propulsion chains in automobiles has been contributing to improve their efficiency and to reduce the local pollutant emissions. In this paper, the dynamic behavior of a commercial electric vehicle is simulated and analyzed in order to compare the dynamic behavior and performance of an available electric vehicle (“Fiat Seicento Elettra”) using two simulation models. The vehicle was simulated using two different approaches to the mechanical modeling: one using a detailed approach for the mechanical parameters and forces applied to the vehicle chassis and the other, only based on the typical forces applied to a body representing this type of vehicle. The results obtained allow analyzing the dynamic behavior of the electric power chain, the autonomy, the state of charge of the batteries and the power balance for typical operation modes: start, braking, acceleration, and slowing down together with pathways of variable slope. From the two models, in addition to the dynamic aspects and performance of the electric vehicle, it is also possible to analyze other factors that are related with the design of an electric vehicle. Among several factors and different operation modes of an automobile, it can be performed, for example, the balance of torques (including the static friction torque, aerodynamic friction torque, viscous friction torque and the torque related with the weight of the car). In addition to the electromechanical aspects, the implemented model also allows estimating the car power consumption and their costs (electric energy) and the pollutant gas emissions (mainly CO₂). In this paper, the values obtained for the commercial electric vehicle used as a reference are compared with those estimated to an equivalent car, which is equipped with an internal combustion engine.