Title: Tracked vehicle physics-based energy modelling and series hybrid system optimisation for the Bradley fighting vehicle

Authors: Travis E. McWhirter; Torrey J. Wagner; John E. Stubbs; Denise M. Rizzo; Jada B. Williams

Addresses: Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT), Department of Systems Engineering and Management, 2950 Hobson Way, WPAFB, OH 45433-7765, USA ' Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT), Department of Systems Engineering and Management, 2950 Hobson Way, WPAFB, OH 45433-7765, USA ' Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT), Department of Systems Engineering and Management, 2950 Hobson Way, WPAFB, OH 45433-7765, USA ' Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT), Department of Systems Engineering and Management, 2950 Hobson Way, WPAFB, OH 45433-7765, USA ' Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT), Department of Systems Engineering and Management, 2950 Hobson Way, WPAFB, OH 45433-7765, USA

Abstract: A hybrid electric tracked ground vehicle (HETGV) can reduce military fuel usage, however a review of current tools determined they are not suitable to estimate HEGTV performance. Based on topographic data and vehicle attributes, this research developed an estimation tool by creating a model to determine tracked vehicle energy and fuel requirements, and using these requirements, created a HEGTV cost and performance optimisation for the Bradley fighting vehicle energy system. The optimised design reduced fuel consumption by 15%, and met the vehicle's peak power requirement of 365 kW, with a recommended configuration of a 135 kW generator and 100 kWh battery, and an estimated drivetrain and fuel cost of $155,000. This analysis concludes by articulating the operational and tactical impacts of increased fuel efficiency.

Keywords: EVs; conventional HEVs; series hybrid electric vehicle; energy transmission; battery technology; DoD; Department of Defense; tracked vehicle.

DOI: 10.1504/IJEHV.2020.104271

International Journal of Electric and Hybrid Vehicles, 2020 Vol.12 No.1, pp.1 - 14

Received: 08 Aug 2019
Accepted: 09 Sep 2019
Published online: 23 Dec 2019 *

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