Improving Range of a Battery-Electric XTV Vehicle by Incorporating a Diesel-Powered Hybrid Electric System

CSU 201

With the growing popularity of electric vehicles among automakers and consumers alike, it is no surprise that off-road manufacturers are now developing more fuel-efficient vehicles to meet the market’s demands. The main goals of this research project are to develop a testing standard for an off-road robot, test baseline range, develop a hybrid electric drivetrain for the robot to increase range, test the new range, and compare the results of the tests. A scaled down Urban Dynamometer Driving Schedule (UDDS) was run repeatedly while following SAE J1634 standards until the robot reached 10% state of charge (SOC). Baseline range results with the original drive motor was 38.26 mi. following the scaled down UDDS trace. Range results with the different drive motor was 38.45 mi. following the same drive trace. With the baseline range results recorded, parts were removed to create space for a generator and all peripherals necessary for its operation. These parts are currently being installed and are scheduled for completion in late April. The expected theoretical range is over 100 miles with the new drivetrain. Projected range is contingent on ability to cool the generator. The final range test and report will be completed in late April and mark the end of the project.