Backward-Facing Analysis for the Preliminary Estimation of the Vehicle Fuel Consumption

In this paper, a methodology for the estimation of fuel consumption using backward-facing analysis is presented. The method for the determination of fuel consumption was based on the evaluation of the total work required to drive the vehicle along a specific drive cycle. At the same time, the potential fuel economy was estimated using the energy that can be harvested from the wheel. The results obtained using this model were compared with complex MATLAB/Simulink models developed using the forward-facing strategy. The MATLAB Simulink model details conventional and hybrid vehicle models capable of estimating fuel consumption. The components of the longitudinal forces opposing the vehicle during driving were investigated and analyzed using the results of the analytical and simulation models. The procedure can be successfully applied to provide a quick estimate of the fuel consumption performance before detailing complex simulation models.