Abstract
In the present paper, the authors make a literature review concerning existing models for electrical, hybrids and fuel cell road vehicles followed by an attempt to compare the energetical and environmental performance of alternative powertrain systems against conventional vehicles, under several traffic conditions. MOVES is identified as being a future powerful model, also including fuel life cycle calculations, and ADVISOR as being the most widely-used model. Both have alternative fuel limitations, because do not consider for example, biodiesel and ethanol. ADVISOR was then used to compare the energetical and environmental performance of alternative powertrain systems against conventional vehicles, under several traffic conditions (urban and highway). The obtained results allowed to identify disadvantages/ limitations of the model, concerning series hybrid simulation (the possible energetic flux of ICE feeding a generator that in turn feeds directly the traction electrical motor avoiding the loss of efficiency caused by the flux passing trough the battery charge/discharge process is not considered) and concerning HC, CO and NOx emissions (inconsistent emission results where found). Based on the existing models, the authors briefly explain their current goal concerning the creation of a new model RVS-Road Vehicle Simulator. Key recommendation of this study is that more experimental on-board data is needed, including conventional and hybrid technologies, and with various duty cycles that include, among others, A/C use, road grade, variability in real-world driving cycles, as a basis for calibrating existing and future models.
Keywords:simulation, hybrid vehicle, energy storage system, hybrid configuration