Enhancing Estimating the Charge Level in Electric Vehicles: Leveraging Force Fluctuation and Regenerative Braking Data

Abstract

Accurate determination of the state of charge is vital to optimize the performance and lifespan of electric vehicle batteries. Traditional methods which rely on battery models and direct measurements can be error-prone due to fluctuating operating conditions and battery degradation over time. Regenerative braking systems are crucial in electric and hybrid vehicles for improving energy efficiency by transforming kinetic energy into electrical energy during braking. However, force fluctuation is a challenge that can affect the performance and comfort of regenerative braking. It is known to us that electric motors and generators used in regenerative braking have non- linear torque characteristics, especially at low speeds, leading to inconsistent braking force. Variations in road conditions, such as wet or uneven surfaces, can affect the grip of the tires, leading to fluctuations in deceleration. Interactions of regenerative braking system with conventional friction brakes can cause force fluctuations, especially during the transition between the two systems. This study introduces an improved state of charge estimation technique based on force fluctuation and a regenerative braking system. This research shows that this approach significantly enhances state of charge accuracy compared to traditional methods, especially in urban driving conditions with frequent braking. The findings underscore the potential of using regenerative braking as well as force fluctuation condition data as a valuable input for state of charge estimation, ultimately leading to better battery management and an extended electric vehicle range.