Simplified electric vehicle power train models and range estimation

Abstract

In this paper, simplified EV power train models are developed for new and existing production vehicles. The models are developed based on published vehicle parameters and range information for the Nissan Leaf and the Tesla Roadster. The models are compared with published manufacturer specifications for range under various route and driving conditions, and for various drive cycles. The models are additionally validated against test results for the Nissan Leaf and Tesla Roadster vehicles, where the test route topography is modeled using Google Earth and a GPS-based smart-phone application. Excellent correlations are demonstrated between the experimental results and manufacturer data and the vehicle models. Impacts of battery degradation with time and vehicle HVAC loads are considered in the study.