Title: A closed-form method to determine vehicle speed and its maximum value

Authors: Junghsen Lieh

Addresses: Mechanical and Materials Engineering, Wright State University, Dayton, Ohio 45435, USA

Abstract: Two non-linear differential equations representing road load and power consumption are used to determine the maximum vehicle speed and speed-time history. These equations are expressed in terms of velocity by expanding the inertia force, air drag, rolling resistance, gravitational force and tyre tractive force. For simulation purpose, the parameters of Wright State|s electric car are used. The results for Front-Wheel Drive (FWD), Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD), Four-Wheel Drive (4WD), high power and low power cases are presented.

Keywords: maximum vehicle speed; closed-form solution; vehicle traction; nonlinear differential equations; road load; power consumption; electric cars; velocity; inertia force; air drag; rolling resistance; gravitational force; tyre tractive force.

DOI: 10.1504/IJVSMT.2008.020615

International Journal of Vehicle Systems Modelling and Testing, 2008 Vol.3 No.1/2, pp.1 - 13

Published online: 03 Oct 2008 *

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