Fuel cell electric vehicle simulation in Simulink and its use for power management studies

Abstract

This paper discusses the need for modelling and simulation of fuel cell electric vehicles. Different modelling methods are presented with power train component and system modelling examples. The MATLAB/Simulink modelling and simulation of the fuel cell electric vehicle (FCV) are presented in this paper. This simulation tool is meant as a help in the design and evaluation of the hybrid electric vehicle. Components in the driveline can be varied and the effect on the hybrid electric vehicle fuel efficiency can be investigated. Both simulation tools consist of a Simulink vehicle model, where the driveline components are represented as interconnected blocks that are communicating physical signals between each other in the level of seconds. Component parameters are set in an accompanying MATLAB m–file. The demonstration shows different operating modes of the FCV over one complete cycle: accelerating, cruising, recharging the battery while accelerating and regenerative braking. It should run for about one minute when you use the accelerator mode.