Grant: Automotive Partnership Canada Project

Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs) are currently considered the most viable alternative propulsion system in automotive industry. They offer a wide range of improvements from most efficient fuel consumption, ability to fuel from the grid, and emission reduction to enhanced power performance. The performance of HEVs heavily depends on the efficiency and reliability of the electric battery pack which is the most important component of the propulsion system. The complexity of the hybrid powertrain decision making combined with the power requirement of the heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) system make the energy management of HEVs a tremendous challenge which, for the most part, has not been adequately resolved. This research will utilize an experimental-theoretical strategy which aims to develop an integrated intelligent energy management system that encompasses the development of: i) battery state estimation system with prognostics and diagnostics; ii) battery thermal management system that enables both cooling and heating of the battery pack to maintain the optimum temperature under various driving and climate conditions; iii) HVAC system; and iv) cooling of electronics on board HEVs. A unique state-of-the-art testing facility will be established at SFU to validate the simulations, and more importantly, to optimize the prototypes proposed in this research. The ultimate goal is to develop efficient energy management system(s) to reduce the cost, weight, and ensure long term, problem-free operation while increasing the driving range of HEVs. The research agenda builds on existing collaboration between SFU and Future Vehicle Technologies Inc (FVT), a Vancouver-based R&D company specializing in the development of HEVs. The results and experience gained from the proposed project will provide engineering design tools and new efficient energy (both electrical and thermal) management systems, specifically designed for HEVs, to aid Canadian automotive companies such as FVT. Furthermore, the fundamental knowledge and modeling design tools can be employed for a variety of sustainable energy applications, including energy storage systems, HVAC, microelectronic cooling, and compact heat exchangers. Additionally, the unique laboratory and testing facility proposed in this project can be a tremendous resource for future training of personnel and collaboration with many industry and academic partners.