UNIT-2

Syllabus
Hybrid Electric Drive-trains: Basic concept of hybrid traction, introduction to various hybrid drive-train
topologies, power flow control in hybrid drive-train topologies, fuel efficiency analysis. Electric Drive-
trains: Basic concept of electric traction, introduction to various electric drive-train topologies, power flow
control in electric drive-train topologies, fuel efficiency analysis.

HYBRID ELECTRIC DRIVE - TRAINS

BASIC CONCEPT OF HYBRID TRACTION

Hybrid traction refers to a propulsion system that combines two or more power sources to drive a vehicle.
In the context of automotive engineering, hybrid traction typically involves combining an internal
combustion engine with an electric motor and a battery. The basic concept of hybrid traction is to use the
electric motor to assist the internal combustion engine during acceleration and to provide power during
idle or low-speed driving, while the engine is used primarily for high-speed cruising and recharging the
battery.

Hybrid traction systems are designed to optimize the fuel efficiency and performance of vehicles, by using
the electric motor to reduce the load on the internal combustion engine, which leads to lower fuel
consumption and emissions. The battery in a hybrid system is typically charged through regenerative
braking, which converts the kinetic energy of the vehicle into electrical energy that is stored in the battery.
The electric motor can also act as a generator during deceleration, converting the kinetic energy of the
vehicle into electrical energy that is used to recharge the battery.

Hybrid traction systems can be classified into different types based on the level of hybridization, ranging
from mild hybrid systems, which provide minimal electric assistance, to full hybrid systems, which can
operate on electric power alone for short distances. Plug-in hybrid systems, which allow the battery to be
charged from an external power source, are another type of hybrid traction system that is becoming
increasingly popular.

Overall, hybrid traction systems offer a number of benefits, including improved fuel efficiency, reduced
emissions, and increased performance. They are also an important step towards the development of fully
electric vehicles, as they help to increase the adoption of electric powertrains and reduce the reliance on
fossil fuels.
OR

The basic concept of hybrid traction is to combine the benefits of both an electric motor and an internal
combustion engine to create a more efficient and powerful system. In a hybrid electric drivetrain, the
electric motor and the internal combustion engine work together to power the vehicle, with the electric
motor providing additional torque and power during acceleration and other high-power situations.

The electric motor is typically powered by a battery pack, which can be recharged through regenerative
braking or by plugging the vehicle into an external power source. This allows the vehicle to operate in
electric-only mode for short distances or at low speeds, reducing fuel consumption and emissions.

The internal combustion engine, on the other hand, provides additional power during high-speed driving
or when the battery is depleted. It can also act as a generator to recharge the battery pack when needed.

Overall, the concept of hybrid traction is to optimize the use of both the electric motor and the internal
combustion engine to provide the best possible balance of power, efficiency, and environmental
performance. By carefully managing the power flow between these two sources, hybrid electric drivetrains
can achieve impressive levels of fuel efficiency while still providing the power and performance drivers
expect from their vehicles.

INTRODUCTION TO VARIOUS HYBRID DRIVE TRAIN TOPOLOGIES

There are several hybrid drivetrain topologies that are commonly used in hybrid vehicles. These include:

Series hybrid: In a series hybrid, the internal combustion engine is used solely to generate electricity, which
powers an electric motor that drives the wheels. The engine is not mechanically connected to the wheels,
and it runs at a constant speed to provide a steady supply of electricity to the motor. This topology is used
in vehicles like the Chevrolet Volt.

Parallel hybrid: In a parallel hybrid, both the internal combustion engine and the electric motor are
mechanically connected to the wheels and can drive the vehicle independently or in combination. This
topology is used in vehicles like the Toyota Prius.

Series-parallel hybrid: This topology combines elements of both series and parallel hybrids. The internal
combustion engine and electric motor can both drive the wheels independently or work together to provide
the necessary power. This topology is used in vehicles like the Ford Fusion Hybrid.

Power-split hybrid: In a power-split hybrid, a planetary gear set allows the electric motor and internal
combustion engine to work together to drive the wheels, while also allowing the electric motor to operate
independently at low speeds. This topology is used in vehicles like the Toyota Prius and the Ford C-Max
Hybrid.

Plug-in hybrid: A plug-in hybrid is a type of hybrid vehicle that has a larger battery and can be charged
from an external power source, allowing it to operate on electric power alone for longer distances. This
topology can be used in any of the above hybrid drivetrain configurations.

Each hybrid drivetrain topology has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the choice of topology
depends on the specific requirements of the vehicle and the desired performance characteristics. For
example, a series hybrid may be more efficient at low speeds, while a parallel hybrid may be more efficient
at high speeds.

POWER FLOW CONTROL IN HYBRID DRIVE TRAIN TOPOLOGIES

Power flow control is an essential aspect of hybrid drivetrain topologies. In a hybrid vehicle, the power
sources (internal combustion engine and electric motor) must be coordinated to provide the required power
to the wheels efficiently. The control strategies used to manage power flow depend on the topology of the
drivetrain.

In a series hybrid, the electric motor is the primary source of propulsion, and the internal combustion
engine is used to charge the battery or provide additional power during acceleration. The power flow
control system manages the output of the engine to ensure that it operates at its most efficient point, while
the electric motor provides the required power to the wheels.

In a parallel hybrid, the power flow control system must coordinate the output of the engine and electric
motor to provide the necessary power to the wheels. This is typically done through a power-split device,
such as a planetary gear set. The control system adjusts the torque split between the engine and electric
motor based on the vehicle's operating conditions, such as speed and load.

In a series-parallel hybrid, the power flow control system must manage the output of both the engine and
electric motor to provide the required power to the wheels. The control system can use a combination of
parallel and series modes to achieve this. For example, during low-speed driving, the system may operate
in a series mode, with the engine charging the battery and the electric motor driving the wheels. During
high-speed driving, the system may operate in a parallel mode, with both the engine and electric motor
driving the wheels.

In a power-split hybrid, the power flow control system can adjust the torque split between the engine and
electric motor continuously. The control system can optimize the torque split based on the vehicle's
operating conditions, such as speed, load, and battery charge level.

In a plug-in hybrid, the power flow control system must manage the charging and discharging of the
battery, as well as the output of the engine and electric motor. The control system must determine the
optimal balance between the use of electric power and the use of the engine, based on the vehicle's
operating conditions and the available battery charge.

In all hybrid drivetrain topologies, the power flow control system is critical to the vehicle's performance,
efficiency, and overall driving experience. The control strategies used must be carefully designed and
optimized to ensure that the vehicle operates efficiently and effectively in a wide range of driving
conditions.

FUEL EFFICIENCY ANALYSIS IN HYBRID ELECTRIC DRIVE TRAIN

Fuel efficiency analysis is a critical aspect of evaluating the performance of hybrid electric drivetrains.
Several factors affect the fuel efficiency of hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), including the topology of the
drivetrain, the size and efficiency of the internal combustion engine, the size and capacity of the battery,
and the control strategy used to manage power flow.

One common metric used to evaluate the fuel efficiency of HEVs is the miles per gallon (MPG) equivalent.
This metric measures the distance traveled by the vehicle on one gallon of gasoline, assuming that the
vehicle operates in electric-only mode for a certain distance or percentage of the time.

Another commonly used metric is the energy efficiency, expressed as miles per kilowatt-hour (miles/kWh)
or gallons per 100 miles (gal/100 mi). This metric measures the amount of energy consumed by the vehicle
to travel a certain distance.

The fuel efficiency of HEVs can be analyzed using a variety of methods, including laboratory testing,
computer simulations, and real-world driving data. Laboratory testing typically involves running the
vehicle through a standard set of driving cycles, such as the EPA city/highway cycle, to measure fuel
consumption and emissions.

Computer simulations can be used to model the performance of the HEV under different driving conditions
and control strategies. This approach allows designers to evaluate the impact of changes in drivetrain
topology, engine size, battery capacity, and control strategy on fuel efficiency and other performance
metrics.

Real-world driving data can be collected using on-board data loggers or by analyzing data from vehicles
equipped with telematics systems. This approach allows designers to evaluate the performance of the HEV
under real-world driving conditions and to identify areas for improvement.
Overall, fuel efficiency analysis is an essential tool for evaluating the performance of hybrid electric
drivetrains and for identifying opportunities to improve the efficiency and environmental impact of HEVs.

ELECTRIC DRIVE TRAINS

BASIC CONCEPT ELECTRIC TRACTION

Electric traction refers to the use of electric power to propel vehicles, particularly trains and trams. Electric
traction relies on an electric motor to convert electrical energy into mechanical energy, which in turn drives
the wheels of the vehicle.
Electric traction is popular because it provides several advantages over other forms of traction. It is
generally more efficient than internal combustion engines, which means that it can be more cost effective
over the long term. Electric traction also produces no emissions at the point of use, making it a more
environmentally-friendly option.
To power electric traction, electricity is typically supplied through overhead wires or a third rail system.
The electricity is then transferred to the vehicle's electric motor through a system of cables and contacts.
The electric motor converts the electrical energy into mechanical energy to drive the wheels of the vehicle.

In addition to trains and trams, electric traction is also used in electric cars, buses, and bicycles.

INTRODUCTION TO VARIOUS ELECTRIC DRIVE TRAIN TOPOLOGIES

There are several different electric drive train topologies used in electric vehicles, each with its own
advantages and disadvantages. Here are some of the most common ones:

Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs): BEVs are powered solely by an electric motor and rely on a battery
pack for energy storage. They have no internal combustion engine and produce no emissions at the point
of use. However, they require recharging and have limited range compared to other types of vehicles.

Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs): HEVs combine an electric motor with an internal combustion engine
to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. The electric motor can assist the engine during
acceleration and provide power at low speeds, while the engine takes over at higher speeds. HEVs can also
use regenerative braking to recharge their battery packs.

Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs): PHEVs are similar to HEVs, but have larger battery packs
that can be recharged by plugging into an external power source. They can run on electric power alone for
a limited range before switching to the internal combustion engine. PHEVs offer the benefits of both
electric and hybrid vehicles, but their battery packs add weight and cost.

Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEVs): FCEVs use hydrogen fuel cells to generate electricity to power an
electric motor. They produce no emissions other than water vapor and have long range, but hydrogen
fueling infrastructure is limited and expensive.

Extended Range Electric Vehicles (EREVs): EREVs are similar to PHEVs, but have a larger battery
pack and a small internal combustion engine that acts as a generator to recharge the battery when it runs
low. EREVs can run entirely on electric power for a limited range, then switch to the generator for longer
trips.

Each of these electric drive train topologies has its own strengths and weaknesses, and the choice of which
one to use depends on factors such as range, cost, infrastructure, and the intended use of the vehicle.
POWER FLOW CONTROL IN ELECTRIC DRIVE TRAIN TOPOLOGIES

Power flow control is an important aspect of electric drive train topologies, as it determines how electrical
power is distributed between the various components of the system. Here are some of the ways power flow
is controlled in different electric drive train topologies:

Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs): In BEVs, power flow is controlled by the battery management system,
which regulates the flow of electrical energy from the battery pack to the electric motor. The amount of
power delivered to the motor is determined by the accelerator pedal position and the vehicle's speed.

Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs): In HEVs, power flow is controlled by a power split device, which can
direct power from the engine, electric motor, or both, to the wheels depending on the driving conditions.
The power split device can also use regenerative braking to recharge the battery pack.

Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs): PHEVs use a similar power split device to HEVs, but also
have a charger that allows them to recharge the battery pack from an external power source. Power flow
can be controlled based on the charge state of the battery pack, the vehicle's speed, and the driver's input.

Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEVs): In FCEVs, power flow is controlled by the fuel cell stack and the
electric motor controller. The fuel cell stack generates electrical power from hydrogen fuel, which is then
delivered to the electric motor. The motor controller regulates the amount of power delivered to the motor
based on the driver's input and the vehicle's speed.

Extended Range Electric Vehicles (EREVs): EREVs use a similar power split device to PHEVs, but
also have a small internal combustion engine that can act as a generator to recharge the battery pack. Power
flow can be controlled based on the charge state of the battery pack, the vehicle's speed, and the availability
of fuel for the generator.

In all of these electric drive train topologies, power flow control is critical for optimizing efficiency,
maximizing range, and ensuring optimal performance. The specific control strategies used vary depending
on the vehicle architecture and the requirements of the system.

FUEL EFFICIENCY ANALYSIS IN ELECTRIC DRIVE TRAIN

Fuel efficiency analysis in electric drive train is different from traditional combustion engine vehicles since
electric vehicles use electrical energy stored in a battery to power an electric motor. Therefore, the key
metric for fuel efficiency analysis in electric vehicles is energy efficiency.

Energy efficiency is a measure of how effectively the energy stored in the battery is converted into the
kinetic energy of the vehicle. It is typically expressed as the distance traveled per unit of energy consumed.
The most common unit of energy used in electric vehicles is the kilowatt-hour (kWh).

To calculate the energy efficiency of an electric vehicle, you can divide the distance traveled by the amount
of energy consumed during that journey. For example, if a vehicle travels 100 kilometers and consumes
20 kWh of energy, its energy efficiency would be 5 kilometers per kWh.

In addition to energy efficiency, other factors can affect the fuel efficiency of electric vehicles, such as
driving style, terrain, and weather conditions. For example, aggressive driving or driving uphill can cause
the electric motor to consume more energy, reducing the vehicle's fuel efficiency.
To optimize fuel efficiency in electric vehicles, several strategies can be employed, such as:

Efficient driving techniques: Avoiding sudden acceleration and braking, and maintaining a constant
speed can reduce energy consumption and increase fuel efficiency.

Eco-mode: Many electric vehicles have an eco-mode that adjusts the performance of the electric motor
and other vehicle systems to maximize energy efficiency.

Regenerative braking: Regenerative braking can capture some of the kinetic energy of the vehicle during
braking and convert it into electrical energy to recharge the battery pack.

Battery management: Proper management of the battery pack, including maintaining optimal
temperature and avoiding overcharging or discharging, can help maximize fuel efficiency and extend
battery life.

In summary, fuel efficiency analysis in electric drive train focuses on energy efficiency, which is a measure
of how effectively the energy stored in the battery is converted into the kinetic energy of the vehicle.
Several strategies can be employed to optimize fuel efficiency, including efficient driving techniques, eco-
mode, regenerative braking, and battery management.