WM985-15 Automotive Hybridisation and Electrification
Introductory description
This module examines the core principles and concepts that underpin the engineering of hybrid and electrified vehicles, considering both system-level and sub-system-level perspectives. It introduces key customer requirements and associated vehicle-level attributes, such as performance indicators and efficiency targets, and explores how these are systematically translated into technical solutions. The module further covers suitable verification methods to ensure these requirements and expectations are fulfilled. The sizing of components for electric and hybrid systems is explored in detail, alongside an in-depth study of propulsion architectures, control strategies, and integration challenges. By the end of the module, students will have acquired a thorough understanding of the complete engineering process.
When this module is delivered on DA Programmes, it is delivered in a 1 week block with 6 weeks to submit, rather than over 4 weeks
Module aims
This module aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of hybrid and electric vehicles, with particular emphasis on their core attributes, functional behaviour, and architectural characteristics. Students will learn to define high-level vehicle requirements and apply systems engineering principles to systematically decompose these into sub-system specifications through component sizing. The module also introduces the key sub-systems of hybrid and electric vehicles, establishing a solid foundation for further study in the design and development of advanced hybrid and electric propulsion systems.
Outline syllabus
This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.
Introduction to Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs)
- Overview of BEV concepts, operating principles, advantages and limitations
- Market trends, regulatory context, and societal impact
Powertrain Theories and Calculations
- Fundamentals of power and energy in vehicle applications
- Vehicle longitudinal dynamics, tractive effort, and energy flow analysis
- Driving cycles and performance estimation
Powertrain Architecture and Systems
- Electric and hybrid powertrain configurations: series, parallel, and power-split
- Functional roles of sub-systems within the propulsion system
- System-level design considerations
Attribute Decomposition in Automotive Engineering
- Defining vehicle-level attributes: performance, range, efficiency, drivability
- Systems engineering approach to requirement breakdown
- Attribute cascading and traceability
Component Sizing for BEVs
- Hands-on methods for sizing motors, batteries, and inverters
- Trade-off analysis and design constraints
- Introduction to sizing tools and models
Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs)
- Principles and types of hybridisation
- Energy management strategies and hybrid control concepts
- Comparison with BEVs in terms of performance and application
Series and Parallel Hybrid Powertrains: Sizing and Control
- Component interaction and energy flow in hybrid systems
- Control strategies and optimisation techniques
- Sizing of components
Electrical and Electronic Systems in Electrified Powertrains
- High-Voltage Battery Systems, Electric Machines and Drives, Power Electronics,
Learning outcomes
By the end of the module, students should be able to:
- Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the principles, architectures, and functional characteristics of hybrid and electric vehicles at both system and sub-system levels. [AHEP:4; 7, M4]
- Define key customer requirements and vehicle-level attributes, such as performance and efficiency targets, and translate these into technical specifications. [AHEP:4; 7, M1, M2, M5]
- Apply systems engineering principles to decompose high-level vehicle requirements into sub-system parameters, and perform quantitative powertrain calculations and component sizing for BEVs and HEVs [AHEP:4; 7, M1, M3, M5]
- Identify and explain the roles of key vehicle sub-systems, including high-voltage battery systems, electric machines (such as PMSMs), and associated power electronics. [AHEP:4; 7, M4, M5]
- Apply appropriate verification and validation techniques to ensure system-level requirements are achieved. [AHEP:4; 7, M3]
- Collaborate effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team to solve engineering problems, communicate design decisions, and contribute to the development of hybrid and electric vehicle systems. [AHEP:4; 7, M16]
Indicative reading list
- Ehsani, Mehrdad, Yimin Gao, Stefano Longo, and Kambiz Ebrahimi. Modern electric, hybrid electric, and fuel cell vehicles. CRC press, 2018.
- Mashadi, Behrooz, and David A. Crolla. Vehicle powertrain systems. London: Wiley, 2012.
Onori, Simona, Lorenzo Serrao, and Giorgio Rizzoni. Hybrid electric vehicles: Energy management strategies. Vol. 13. London, UK: Springer, 2016. - Hick, Hannes, Klaus Küpper, and Helfried Sorger, eds. Systems Engineering for Automotive Powertrain Development. Springer, 2021.
View reading list on Talis Aspire
Subject specific skills
Apply engineering analysis to real-world vehicle problems; Lead technical teams and group projects; Manage resources, time, and system constraints; Communicate with technical and non-technical audiences; Use tools like MATLAB/Simulink for component sizing; Analyse road load and energy consumption; Define vehicle requirements and performance attributes; Apply systems engineering to powertrain design; Evaluate emerging electrified vehicle technologies
Transferable skills
Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking; Project Management and Time Management; Teamwork and Collaboration; Communication and Presentation Skills; Adaptability and Innovation; Research and Analytical Skills; Self-Directed Learning and Continuous Improvement; Entrepreneurial Thinking and Innovation
Study time
| Type | Required |
|---|---|
| Lectures | 8 sessions of 1 hour (5%) |
| Seminars | 16 sessions of 1 hour (11%) |
| Tutorials | 6 sessions of 1 hour (4%) |
| Online learning (independent) | 10 sessions of 1 hour (7%) |
| Private study | 50 hours (33%) |
| Assessment | 60 hours (40%) |
| Total | 150 hours |
Private study description
Self-study time for preparation for assessed tasks, including independent research activity.
Costs
No further costs have been identified for this module.
You must pass all assessment components to pass the module.
Assessment group A
| Weighting | Study time | Eligible for self-certification | |
|---|---|---|---|
Assessment component |
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| Attribute Definition, Powertrain Sizing, and Verification of a HEV Concept- Group project | 70% | 42 hours | No |
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In this team-based project, students will design a conceptual hybrid electric vehicle by identifying key customer requirements and translating them into system-level attributes, such as acceleration, maximum speed, and other propulsion-related characteristics. Applying systems engineering principles and propulsion system theory, teams will break down these attributes into sub-system specifications and carry out powertrain sizing calculations. Peer assessment will be employed to account for individual contributions within each team. |
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Reassessment component |
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| Attribute Definition, Powertrain Sizing, and Verification of an EV Concept | Yes (extension) | ||
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In this individual assessment, the student will develop a conceptual electrified vehicle by defining key customer requirements and translating them into system-level attributes including acceleration, max speed and other propulsion attributes. Using systems engineering principles and theories of propulsion systems, the team will decompose these attributes into sub-system specifications and perform powertrain sizing calculations. |
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Assessment component |
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| Individual Video Presentation: Emerging Technologies in Core Sub-Systems of Electric Vehicles | 30% | 18 hours | Yes (extension) |
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In this individual assignment, students will produce a 10-minute video presentation demonstrating their understanding of electric and hybrid vehicle architectures, with a particular focus on the evolving technologies in key sub-systems such as high-voltage batteries, electric machines, and power electronics. The presentation should highlight current trends, technological advancements, and their impact on overall vehicle performance and design. |
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Reassessment component is the same |
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Feedback on assessment
Individual written feedback and overall mark.
Post-requisite modules
If you pass this module, you can take:
- WM984-15 Systems Engineering and Functional Safety
- WM994-15 Electrical Drivetrains
- WM995-15 Battery Electrochemistry, Design and Manufacturing
- WM986-15 Energy Storage Systems
Courses
This module is Core for:
- MSc in Sustainable Automotive Electrification ( L7 DA)
- MSc in Sustainable Automotive Electrification (FT)
- MSc in Sustainable Automotive Electrification (PT)