Matching Strategy and Optimization of Propulsion System Parameters for the Front-Centralized and Rear-Distributed Drive Electric Vehicle

Conventional single-motor centralized drive configuration struggles to reconcile power performance with vehicle efficiency, while the emerging distributed drive systems face the challenges of increased unsprung mass. This paper presents a novel hybrid propulsion architecture that takes the front-centralized and rear-distributed drive system to synergistically leverage the advantages of both. The models of vehicle and drivetrain system were established respectively. A multi-objective genetic algorithm optimization was implemented, which comprehensively considered the vehicle acceleration, energy efficiency performance, and suppression of unsprung mass. Optimization results demonstrate that the front motor features as the primary power unit coupled with the rear EDW (electric drive wheel) serving as the auxiliary unit. The prototype was developed on a test vehicle and experimentally validated, confirming a successful integration of the EDW within standard passenger car wheel envelopes. The testing data revealed the maximal speed of $145 \mathrm{~km} / \mathrm{h}$ and a CLTC-rated range of 385 km, which indicated a well-balanced overall performance of the vehicle.