Introductory description

Electric propulsion lies at the core of modern electric vehicles, involving the integration of key subsystems such as tyres, transmission, electric machines, and drive technologies, all of which collectively contribute to the overall vehicle attributes.

The layered architecture of both the vehicle and its propulsion system necessitates the use of appropriate analytical and design tools and methodologies.

From a systems-level perspective, high-level vehicle attributes are significantly influenced by subsystem characteristics, including the sizing and integration of electric propulsion components. At an intermediate level, the performance of the electric propulsion system is closely linked to the functional architecture of lower-level subsystems such as the electric machine, power electronics drive, and control logic.

Therefore, it is essential for engineers and professionals in this field to develop a robust understanding of both vehicle-level performance requirements and the operational architecture of subsystems. They must also be capable of conducting system- and subsystem-level analysis using suitable tools and methods.

Module aims

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.

1. Introduction to Electric Vehicle Propulsion

• Overview of electric propulsion system architectures
• Regenerative braking in electric vehicles
• Comparison with conventional powertrains

1. Vehicle-Level Modelling and Performance Requirements

• Powertrain theory including road load equations and tractive force estimation
• Drive cycles (e.g. WLTP) and vehicle simulation
• Vehicle energy consumption and range prediction

1. Component Sizing Using Model-Based Methods

• Power and energy requirements
  Sizing of:
• Electric drive unit (electric machine and reducer)
• Power electronics
• Battery systems

1. Electric Machines for Propulsion

• Types of machines (e.g. PMSM, IM, SRM)
• Operating principles and performance characteristics
• Machine selection criteria for automotive use

1. Power Electronics and Drive Systems

• Fundamentals of power electronic converters and inverters
• Switching devices (e.g., IGBT, MOSFET)
• Commutation and control of electric drives

1. Torque Control and Reference Frames

• Vector Control
• Clarke and Park transformations
• Implementation in simulation environments (e.g. MATLAB/Simulink)

1. Model-Based System Integration

• Integrating subsystems into a complete propulsion model
• Functional interfaces and co-simulation
• System-level validation against vehicle targets

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module, students should be able to:

• Evaluate the road load and performance demands of electric vehicles through vehicle-level analysis. [AHEP:4; 7, M1, M2, M3]
• Size and specify key components of electric powertrain systems using a model-based approach to meet defined vehicle performance and efficiency targets. [AHEP:4; 7, M1, M2, M3, M5]
• Analyse and compare a range of electric machine technologies used in propulsion systems, including their principles of operation, performance characteristics, and suitability for automotive applications. [AHEP:4; 7, M4, M5, M6]
• Design and implement control strategies and drive system for propulsion electric machines ensuring accurate and stable operation. [AHEP:4; 7, M2, M4, M3, M5]
• Integrate and simulate electric propulsion systems using model-based development techniques, and validate system-level performance against design requirements. [AHEP:4; 7, M2, M3]
• Work collaboratively within a team to resolve problems in the context of electric propulsion systems [AHEP:4; 7, M16]

Indicative reading list

Reading lists can be found in Talis

Specific reading list for the module

Subject specific skills

Calculation and analysis of road load and vehicle propulsion requirements
Sizing and specification of electrified propulsion system components
Mapping electric vehicle attributes to propulsion system component characteristics
Understanding types and operational characteristics of electric machines
Knowledge of power electronics used in electric motor applications
Principles and implementation of electric machine control
Practical skills in sizing key electric vehicle components through hands-on activities
Practical experience in modelling and controlling electric machines

Transferable skills

Critical thinking; Problem solving; Self-awareness; Communication; Teamwork and working effectively with others; Information literacy (research skills); Digital literacy; Sustainability; Professionalism; Organisational awareness.