Definition of procedures for heavy duty powertrain evaluation

Abstract

This paper proposes strategies for powertrain evaluation that allow a consistent evaluation of performance across the entire powertrain operating range. Two options for powertrain evaluation are proposed: powertrain testing, and powertrain-in-loop testing. Simulation is used to illustrate how the procedures could be implemented. The key feature of the proposed procedures is the linking of the engine certification test cycles with aligned powertrain and vehicle cycles. This would allow consistent evaluation of emissions for engine and powertrain, and would allow development efforts to build on experience gained in years of emissions compliance work. The paper uses the US EPA heavy duty engine transient federal test procedure (FTP) test and the steady state supplemental emissions test (SET) as a starting point. As with the engine cycles, the proposed procedures would be vehicle independent thereby minimising the proliferation of development efforts.