Model-based energy path analysis of tip-in event in a 2wd vehicle with range-extender electric powertrain architecture

Vehicle driveability is one of the important attributes in range-extender electric vehicles due to the electric motor torque characteristics at low-speed events. Physical vehicle prototypes are typically used to validate and rectify vehicle driveability attributes. However, this can be expensive and require several design iterations. In this paper, a model-based energy method to assess vehicle driveability is presented based on high-fidelity 49 degree-of-freedom powertrain and vehicle systems. Multibody dynamic components were built according to their true centre of gravity relative to the vehicle datum to provide an accurate system interaction. The work covered a frequency of less than 20 Hz. The results consist of the components’ frequency domination, which was structured and examined to identify the low-frequency resonances sensitivity based on different operating parameters such as road surface coefficients. An energy path method was also implemented on the dominant component by decoupling its compliances to study the effect on the vehicle driveability and low-frequency resonances. The outcomes of the research provided a good understanding of the interaction across the sub-systems levels. The powertrain rubber mounts were the dominant component that controlled the low-frequency resonances (<15.33 Hz) and can change the vehicle driveability quality.