Abstract
From the actual point of view the most promising concepts for future passenger cars are based on the conversion of electrical into mechanical energy. In-wheel motors are an interesting concept towards vehicle electrification that provides also high potentials to improve vehicle dynamics and handling. Nevertheless they increase the unsuspended mass worsening vehicle comfort and safety. The optimization of these criteria is a challenging design trade-off. This paper analyses potentials and limitations of new mechatronic suspension systems in order to assure appropriate levels of vehicle comfort and safety when using in-wheel motors.
As a key role for electric vehicles, the energy consumption of the presented suspension systems is also investigated. It is shown, that it plays a more important role within electric vehicles than within vehicles with internal combustion engine because of the higher efficiency of the electric power train. The results of this paper contribute to the further development of future vehicle concepts using in-wheel motors and energy efficient mechatronic suspension systems leading to a so called eCorner module.
Keywords: eCorner, energy efficiency, in-wheel motors, suspension design, energy recuperation