International Journal of Powertrains (3 papers in press)

Regular Issues

• Formula 1 Race Launch with State-Dependent Phase Optimisation  
  by Marc-Philippe Neumann, Matteo Babin, Giona Fieni, Oliviero Agnelli, Armin Nurkanovic, Alberto Cerofolini, Christopher Onder 
  Abstract: The launch of a Formula 1 race represents a crucial stage that influences the result. It is characterised by multiple consecutive state-dependent phases. At the starting signal, the drivers gradually release the clutch paddle. Then, with a locked clutch, the gear selection determines the subsequent phases. Each phase evolves according to distinct dynamics, while accepting different control inputs. In this work, we propose a framework that jointly optimises those phases. Specifically, we optimise the phase-specific control inputs and the switching times. Results show that decreasing the available battery energy by 0.1 MJ affects the gear shifting strategy and increases the time to cover 140mby 6 ms. This result validates the superiority over sequential phase optimisation, which potentially leads to infeasible results due to its causal nature. For a wet track scenario, we show the duration increase of the phases, while complying with optimal torque deployment for best acceleration.
  Keywords: Nonlinear Optimal Control; Hybrid Dynamical System; Friction Clutch Optimisation; Formula 1; Race Launch Optimisation; State-dependent Phase Optimisation; Hybrid Electric Vehicles.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJPT.2025.10072012
   
  
• Model-Based Co-Design of a Generic Fuel Cell Hybrid Vehicle Via Heuristic Optimisation Algorithms  
  by Paolo Aliberti, Camilo Andrès Manrique Escobar, Marco Sorrentino, Cesare Pianese 
  Abstract: Fuel cell hybrid electric vehicles offer a compelling alternative to traditional thermal engines and fully electric propulsion systems due to their zero emissions and extended range. Enhancing these benefits involves the co-design of the powertrain and control strategies. For a light-duty fuel cell vehicle, co-design is performed here via heuristic algorithms, maximising fuel economy. Moreover, initial conditions, which often limit convergence performance, are carefully selected. A flexible control strategy is embedded in the procedure, enabling simultaneous adaptation to the currently investigated powertrain configuration. Considering five consecutive WLTP cycles, two scenarios are investigated, differing by the admitted post-driving recharge time. 115.12 km/kg fuel economy is achieved, with a 2% improvement in the unconstrained case, which also enables a 47% downsizing of the fuel cell system. The final outcome, proved via comparison with dynamic programming, is that higher degree of hybridisation shall be preferred, especially if post-driving battery recharging is assumed.
  Keywords: Proton exchange membrane fuel cell; hybrid vehicle; model-based co-design; finite state-machine control.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJPT.2025.10073239
   
  
• Optimised Powertrain Design for Lightweight 3-Wheeler Electric Vehicles: Enhancing Energy Efficiency, Sustainability, and Emission-Free Mobility  
  by Prashanta Kumar Dehury, Sudhansu Kumar Samal, Smitanjali Rout, Bijaya Paikray 
  Abstract: India's automobile sector has grown, adding thirty million automobiles to the country's yearly output and a significant contribution to the economy However, this success comes with environmental challenges, particularly concerning pollution from Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) vehicles, which dominate the Indian roads This study focuses on designing and analysing a lightweight 3-Wheeler Electric Vehicles (3-W EV) powertrain with advanced active components, aiming to improve efficiency, responsiveness, and sustainability The research objectives include conceptual design, integration of advanced components, optimization for efficiency, and validation through simulations The study investigates the dynamics of an electric vehicle (EV) system A sinusoidal current graph reveals oscillations between 0 to 50 A over time, reflecting motor operation A lithium-ion battery's state of charge (SOC) declines from 72% to approximately 70.75% during a discharge lasting 600 seconds Simultaneously, within 100 seconds of MATLAB simulation, a Brushless Direct Current (BLDC) motor reaches 2700 Revolutions Per Minute(RPM).
  Keywords: Electric Vehicle; Internal Combustion Engine; Lithium-ion battery; State of Charge; Battery Management System.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJPT.2025.10073917