Reducing fuel consumption of a passenger car towards energy efficient vehicle by using belted alternator startertechnology

Abstract

Many car companies are currently looking into developing hybrid electric vehicles (HEV) and electric vehicles (EV) to address global warming issues and current stringent emission legislation. Thus, this research presents a 48V mild-hybrid technology feasibility study to reduce vehicle fuel consumption to achieve the ASEAN roadmap 2025 target as the automotive industry worldwide moves toward energy-efficient vehicles in the future. The research aims to design and develop a 1-D full vehicle model equipped with a 48V belted alternator starter (BAS) as a mild-hybrid solution and understanding the impact on overall vehicle fuel consumption in the drive cycle. This research's vehicle model is a mid-sized sedan powered by a 1.8L engine coupled to a 6-Speed Automatic Transmission (6AT). The baseline vehicle model is developed using industrial vehicle simulation software. The results have been compared and correlated with actual vehicle measurements. The models with and without the BAS system are then reviewed in a few aspects related to fuel consumption, according to NEDC and WLTP drive cycles. Implementing mild-hybrid systems is expected to reduce the overall vehicle fuel consumption by approximately 7.3% in NEDC and 3.5% in WLTP. The fuel consumption assessment of both drive cycles has proven that the BAS system's implementation could reduce fuel consumption. The research's significant findings are valuables for further development in strategizing the hybrid technologies and its control strategy in supporting low carbon footprint initiatives by the local authority and ASEAN roadmap.