ABSTRACT
The selection and optimisation of Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) powertrains and architectures creates new challenges and opportunities. The position and size of the electric machines in conjunction with the transmission type can alter the engine operating profile to enable enhancements to the cost and efficiency of the engine. To achieve such benefits requires a systematic evaluation of the powertrain system at the beginning of a development cycle, to understand how the engine may be altered to match the hybrid system. Ricardo has developed an approach to review the performance and operating profile of a wide range of candidate HEV configurations without the need for a detailed control system to be developed as part of the assessment. This allows consideration of what is possible for future powertrains towards achieving the maximum benefits from electrification and optimisation of the engine.
