Torque performance and overall efficiency in HEV powertrains

With the increase in global temperatures, mitigating the environmental impact of vehicles is more critical than ever. The article examines the performance and control of hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) powertrains, emphasizing the integration of advanced drivetrains to improve efficiency and lower emissions. It compares the driving distances achievable with four types of HEV drivetrains—series, parallel, series-parallel, and multi-mode—under equal fuel consumption, considering their efficiency and maximum torque. The results indicate that while parallel systems offer flexibility in power delivery, energy losses during power distribution between the internal combustion engine (ICE) and the electric motor (EM) can lead to variability in driving distances. Parallel hybrid vehicles can use electric drive at low speeds and ensure engine efficiency at high speeds, thus ensuring fuel economy and operational cost-effectiveness. Future improvements in the parallel hybrid system, particularly in torque management and energy conversion, are identified as necessary.