A simulation-driven methodology for battery electric vehicles concept design

The battery electric vehicles (BEVs) are rapidly and continuously increasing their share in the automotive market as a promising solution towards sustainable mobility and pollutant reduction. The vehicle architecture drastically changes from conventional vehicles and the designers face a broader spectrum of possible layouts. Number and location of electric motors, battery pack sizing and transmission choice deeply affect the vehicle behavior, finding the appropriate solution can determine the success of a carmaker. This work provides a methodology for the assessment of the vehicle's energy consumption and performances. The vehicle is defined through a modular approach and appropriate tools and techniques are introduced. The analysis considers a wide range of vehicle power classes and powertrain layouts. Finally, a sensitivity analysis covers the influence of the electric power unit's main design variables and of the lightweight design.