Effect of Ambient Temperature on Electric Vehicles’ Energy Consumption and Range: Model Definition and Sensitivity Analysis Based on Nissan Leaf Data

Paolo Iora,Laura Tribioli

doi:10.3390/wevj10010002

Abstract

In this paper, a general quasi-steady backward-looking model for energy consumption estimation of electric vehicles is presented. The model is based on a literature review of existing approaches and was set up using publicly available data for Nissan Leaf. The model has been used to assess the effect of ambient temperature on energy consumption and range, considering various reference driving cycles. The results are supported and validated using data available from an experimental campaign where the Nissan Leaf was driven to depletion across a broad range of winter ambient temperatures. The effect of ambient temperature and the consequent accessories consumption due to cabin heating are shown to be remarkable. For instance, in case of Federal Urban Driving Schedule (FUDS), simplified FUDS (SFUDS), and New European Driving Cycle (NEDC) driving cycles, the range exceeds 150 km at 20 °C, while it reduces to about 85 km and 60 km at 0 °C and −15 °C, respectively. Finally, a sensitivity analysis is reported to assess the impact of the hypotheses in the battery model and of making different assumptions on the regenerative braking efficiency.

Highlights

In 2016, the transportation sector was responsible of about one-third of the world’s oil demand and, as a consequence, of the total CO2 emissions [1]
The model is validated on the data recorded through the experimental campaign reported in the work of [27], where the Nissan Leaf was driven to depletion across a broad range of ambient temperatures occurring in Winnipeg, MB, Canada, during winter
This paper presents a general battery electric vehicles (BEVs) energy consumption model, based on a critical analysis of the main assumptions made in existing models, aiming at identifying the best compromise between accuracy and the possibility to build up a straightforward and effective tool for the simulation of commercial electric vehicles, whenever general operating data are publicly available

Summary

Introduction

In 2016, the transportation sector was responsible of about one-third of the world’s oil demand and, as a consequence, of the total CO2 emissions [1]. Energy consumption and vehicle range of BEVs are affected by varying climate conditions, for their direct influence on the electric components operation, but mainly for the increase in the accessory power consumption due to cabin heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning. This aspect becomes critic in cold weather; unlike fossil fuel-powered vehicles, the thermal energy available from the electric motor is not able to meet heating demands in winter and the energy consumption related to heating can significantly affect the vehicle performance in terms of range.

Model Description

Model Validation

Sensitivity Analysis

Findings

Conclusions