Development of Optimal Control Strategy for a Plug-In Series Hybrid Electric Vehicle With an On-Board Engine-Generator System for Overall Fuel Economy Improvement and Reduction in Tail-Pipe Emissions

This research study focuses on determining optimal points of operation for the engine-generator system and regenerative braking at the wheels in a plug-in series hybrid electric Chevrolet Camaro. The goal is to improve overall fuel economy of the vehicle as well as reducing overall tail-pipe emissions. An abstract mathematical model of the series hybrid electric Chevrolet Camaro is being used to simulate the overall energy consumption of the vehicle. Previously tested and published control algorithms and strategies are studied, discussed and a viable scheme is chosen for optimization. The results from the optimal strategy considered are compared against the unoptimized results. An improvement of ∼ 8.9% in fuel economy and ∼ 8.2% reduction in tail-pipe emissions is estimated.