Riassunto analitico
This thesis presents the development and validation of a MATLAB/Simulink model for a par-
allel hybrid powertrain combining a Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell (PEMFC) and a
battery, designed for heavy-duty vehicle applications. The model is validated using VECTO
(Vehicle Energy Consumption Calculation Tool), a recognized tool by the European Union,
ensuring reliable data acquisition and result comparison.
The model features dedicated sections to simulate the behavior of vehicle dynamics, the gear-
box, the electric motor, the battery, and the fuel cell along with its auxiliaries. A rule-based
control strategy has been implemented to manage the powertrain’s energy flows effectively.
Additionally, the model includes a user-friendly graphical interface (GUI) that allows users to
modify the vehicle characteristics according to their needs, making the tool accessible even to
external users with limited knowledge of the underlying model.
The vehicles analysed in this study, and subsequently used for validation with VECTO, were
chosen to have different characteristics and operational objectives, ensuring the model’s reli-
ability across a range of applications. The validation process involved comparing simulation
results with those obtained from VECTO using two distinct vehicle configurations: a Group 5
long-haul vehicle and a Group 2 urban vehicle.
The obtained results demonstrate that the proposed model can reliably replicate the behavior of
a conventional heavy-duty vehicle. When compared to VECTO outputs, the discrepancies were
often minimal or not statistically significant, highlighting the model’s accuracy and robustness.
In conclusion, this model represents a valuable tool for advancing engineering practices in
the automotive sector, which is undergoing significant evolution to align with increasingly
stringent regulations promoting the development of alternative powertrain systems. By offering
a robust and adaptable simulation environment, this model contributes to the ongoing efforts
to reduce carbon and greenhouse gas emissions, supporting the transition toward cleaner and
more sustainable heavy-duty transportation solutions.
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