Impact of payload, speed, and rolling resistance on battery performance in electric vehicles

Abstract

Electric vehicles (EVs) are increasingly recognized as a sustainable alternative to conventional transportation systems, yet their driving range continues to be constrained by limitations in battery performance. To address this challenge, it is essential to investigate operational factors influencing battery current withdrawal and lifespan in terms of distance coverage. The present study evaluates the combined effects of payload, vehicle velocity, and rolling resistance on battery behavior. Findings demonstrate that average current withdrawal rises consistently with increases in payload, speed, and rolling resistance. A heavier payload intensifies tractive force and motion resistance, leading to higher power demand, which scales proportionally with velocity. Likewise, elevated rolling resistance heightens tire–road interaction, thereby increasing current and power consumption. At lower velocities, variations in current are marginal; however, at higher speeds, the deviations become more pronounced. For constant loading, current withdrawal remains relatively stable during the initial 10 minutes, after which the state of charge (SoC) begins to decline depending on the battery’s initial condition. With continued operation, SoC depletion contributes to voltage reduction and greater current demand. A predictive model integrating these observations has been developed and validated experimentally, providing valuable insights for defining the working range and supporting thermal management system design.