Integrated analysis of on-road energy consumption and range optimization in the conversion of an IC engine vehicle to a battery-electric vehicle: A comprehensive research study

Abstract

A major goal of this research project was to analyze how energy consumption and range of electric vehicles are affected by a variety of factors. The study includes an analysis of data based on factors such as state of charge, wheel traction power, power due to drag and aerodynamics, potential and kinetic energy changes, elevation, current, voltage, speed, and total loss due to traffic, and their effect on the consumption of energy and range of the electric vehicles. The data was analyzed using statistical methods such as MATLAB, Excel, and Python to find correlations between the various factors mentioned above. This research paper thoroughly explores the intricate relationships governing consumption of energy and range of the electric vehicles. Notably, this paper discovered connections between altitude and state of charge, current and state of charge, and even speed and voltage drop, highlighting the interplay of these elements. This paper also explored how factors like vehicle speed, slope, current, wheel traction power, and power due to gravity collectively shape EV propulsion dynamics. In simpler terms, this paper quantified energy losses due to traffic and emphasized how efficient motors and regenerative systems can significantly reduce these losses. Notably, regenerative efficiency stands out, cutting total energy losses by nearly half compared to scenarios where it is not used. These findings contribute to academic discussions and offer practical insights that undergraduate students can grasp, informing future EV designs and operations and promoting an energy-conscious transportation landscape.