Analysis of the Lateral Stability for Four-Wheel Independent Driving Electric Vehicles

Abstract

The four-wheel independent driving EVs have been considered as the hot spot due to their excellent controlling capability of the driving force distribution in recent years. In order to achieve the excellent control capability of electric drive systems, the mechanical properties and performance need to be investigated and evaluated. In this paper, the lateral stability of four-wheel independent driving EVs is studied and the major factors are investigated. Results of the analysis indicate that the sideslip angle of the vehicle should be controlled at a small value. Under this condition, the yaw rate plays a key role on the lateral stability of the vehicle. The results in this research provide a solid guidance to considerably improve the lateral stability and the active safety of the EVs, in both theoretical and practical aspects.