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21 pages, 3788 KiB  
Article
An Optimization Design Method for Flat-Wire Motors Based on Combined Rotor Slot Structures
by Xiangjun Bi, Hongbin Yin, Yan Chen, Mingyang Luo, Xiaojun Wang and Wenjing Hu
World Electr. Veh. J. 2025, 16(8), 439; https://doi.org/10.3390/wevj16080439 - 4 Aug 2025
Viewed by 164
Abstract
To enhance the electromagnetic performance of flat-wire permanent magnet synchronous motors, three different groove structures were designed for the rotor, and a multi-objective optimization algorithm combining a genetic algorithm (GA) with the TOPSIS method was proposed. Firstly, an 8-pole 48-slot flat-wire motor model [...] Read more.
To enhance the electromagnetic performance of flat-wire permanent magnet synchronous motors, three different groove structures were designed for the rotor, and a multi-objective optimization algorithm combining a genetic algorithm (GA) with the TOPSIS method was proposed. Firstly, an 8-pole 48-slot flat-wire motor model was established, and the cogging torque was analytically calculated to compare the motor’s performance under different groove schemes. Secondly, global multi-objective optimization of the rotor groove dimensions was performed using a combined simulation approach involving Maxwell, Workbench, and Optislang, and the optimal rotor groove size structure was selected using the TOPSIS method. Finally, a comparative analysis of the motor’s performance under both rated-load and no-load conditions was conducted for the pre- and post-optimization designs, followed by verification of the mechanical strength of the optimized rotor structure. The research results demonstrate that the combined optimization approach utilizing the genetic algorithm and the TOPSIS method significantly enhances the torque characteristics of the motor. The computational results indicate that the average torque is increased to 165.32 N·m, with the torque ripple reduced from 28.37% to 13.32% and the cogging torque decreased from 896.88 mN·m to 187.9 mN·m. Moreover, the total distortion rates of the air-gap magnetic flux density and the no-load back EMF are significantly suppressed, confirming the rationality of the proposed motor design. Full article
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28 pages, 17529 KiB  
Article
Intelligent Functional Clustering and Spatial Interactions of Urban Freight System: A Data-Driven Framework for Decoding Heavy-Duty Truck Behavioral Heterogeneity
by Ruixu Pan, Quan Yuan, Chen Liu, Jiaming Cao and Xingyu Liang
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(15), 8337; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15158337 - 26 Jul 2025
Viewed by 329
Abstract
The rapid development of the logistics industry has underscored the urgent need for efficient and sustainable urban freight systems. As a core component of freight systems, heavy-duty trucks (HDT) have been researched regarding surface-level descriptive statistics of their heterogeneities, such as trip volume, [...] Read more.
The rapid development of the logistics industry has underscored the urgent need for efficient and sustainable urban freight systems. As a core component of freight systems, heavy-duty trucks (HDT) have been researched regarding surface-level descriptive statistics of their heterogeneities, such as trip volume, frequency, etc., but there is a lack of in-depth analyses of the spatial interaction between freight travel and freight functional clustering, which restricts a systematic understanding of freight systems. Against this backdrop, this study develops a data-driven framework to analyze HDT behavioral heterogeneity and its spatial interactions with a freight functional zone in Shanghai. Leveraging the high-frequency trajectory data of nearly 160,000 HDTs across seven types, we construct a set of regional indicators and employ hierarchical clustering, dividing the city into six freight functional zones. Combined with the HDTs’ application scenarios, functional characteristics, and trip distributions, we further analyze the spatial interaction between the HDTs and clustered zones. The results show that HDT travel patterns are not merely responses to freight demand but complex reflections of urban industrial structures, infrastructure networks, and policy environments. By embedding vehicle behaviors within their spatial and functional contexts, this study reveals a layered freight system in which each HDT type plays a distinct role in supporting economic activities. This research provides a new perspective for deeply understanding the formation mechanisms of HDT trip distributions and offers critical evidence for promoting targeted freight management strategies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Intelligent Logistics and Supply Chain Systems)
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28 pages, 8337 KiB  
Article
Collision Detection Algorithms for Autonomous Loading Operations of LHD-Truck Systems in Unstructured Underground Mining Environments
by Mingyu Lei, Pingan Peng, Liguan Wang, Yongchun Liu, Ru Lei, Chaowei Zhang, Yongqing Zhang and Ya Liu
Mathematics 2025, 13(15), 2359; https://doi.org/10.3390/math13152359 - 23 Jul 2025
Viewed by 229
Abstract
This study addresses collision detection in the unmanned loading of ore from load-haul-dump (LHD) machines into mining trucks in underground metal mines. Such environments present challenges like heavy dust, confined spaces, sensor occlusions, and poor lighting. This work identifies two primary collision risks [...] Read more.
This study addresses collision detection in the unmanned loading of ore from load-haul-dump (LHD) machines into mining trucks in underground metal mines. Such environments present challenges like heavy dust, confined spaces, sensor occlusions, and poor lighting. This work identifies two primary collision risks and proposes corresponding detection strategies. First, for collisions between the bucket and tunnel walls, LiDAR is used to collect 3D point cloud data. The point cloud is processed through filtering, downsampling, clustering, and segmentation to isolate the bucket and tunnel wall. A KD-tree algorithm is then used to compute distances to assess collision risk. Second, for collisions between the bucket and the mining truck, a kinematic model of the LHD’s working device is established using the Denavit–Hartenberg (DH) method. Combined with inclination sensor data and geometric parameters, a formula is derived to calculate the pose of the bucket’s tip. Key points from the bucket and truck are then extracted to perform collision detection using the oriented bounding box (OBB) and the separating axis theorem (SAT). Simulation results confirm that the derived pose estimation formula yields a maximum error of 0.0252 m, and both collision detection algorithms demonstrate robust performance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mathematical Modeling and Analysis in Mining Engineering)
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32 pages, 1444 KiB  
Article
Enhancing Airport Resource Efficiency Through Statistical Modeling of Heavy-Tailed Service Durations: A Case Study on Potable Water Trucks
by Changcheng Li, Minghua Hu, Yuxin Hu, Zheng Zhao and Yanjun Wang
Aerospace 2025, 12(7), 643; https://doi.org/10.3390/aerospace12070643 - 21 Jul 2025
Viewed by 276
Abstract
In airport operations management, accurately estimating the service durations of ground support equipment such as Potable Water Trucks (PWTs) is essential for improving resource allocation efficiency and ensuring timely aircraft turnaround. Traditional estimation methods often use fixed averages or assume normal distributions, failing [...] Read more.
In airport operations management, accurately estimating the service durations of ground support equipment such as Potable Water Trucks (PWTs) is essential for improving resource allocation efficiency and ensuring timely aircraft turnaround. Traditional estimation methods often use fixed averages or assume normal distributions, failing to capture real-world variability and extreme scenarios effectively. To address these limitations, this study performs a comprehensive statistical analysis of PWT service durations using operational data from Beijing Daxing International Airport (ZBAD) and Shanghai Pudong International Airport (ZSPD). Employing chi-square goodness-of-fit tests, twenty probability distributions—including several heavy-tailed candidates—were rigorously evaluated under segmented scenarios, such as peak versus non-peak periods, varying temperature conditions, and different aircraft sizes. Results reveal that heavy-tailed distributions offer context-dependent advantages: the stable distribution exhibits superior modeling performance during peak operational periods, whereas the Burr distribution excels under non-peak conditions. Interestingly, contrary to existing operational assumptions, service durations at extremely high and low temperatures showed no significant statistical differences, prompting a reconsideration of temperature-dependent planning practices. Additionally, analysis by aircraft category showed that the Burr distribution best described service durations for large aircraft, while stable and log-logistic distributions were optimal for medium-sized aircraft. Numerical simulations confirmed these findings, demonstrating that the proposed heavy-tailed probabilistic models significantly improved resource prediction accuracy, reducing estimation errors by 13% to 25% compared to conventional methods. This research uniquely demonstrates the practical effectiveness of employing context-sensitive heavy-tailed distributions, substantially enhancing resource efficiency and operational reliability in airport ground handling management. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Air Traffic and Transportation)
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22 pages, 1802 KiB  
Article
Economic Operation Optimization for Electric Heavy-Duty Truck Battery Swapping Stations Considering Time-of-Use Pricing
by Peijun Shi, Guojian Ni, Rifeng Jin, Haibo Wang, Jinsong Wang and Xiaomei Chen
Processes 2025, 13(7), 2271; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr13072271 - 16 Jul 2025
Viewed by 281
Abstract
Battery-swapping stations (BSSs) are pivotal for supplying energy to electric heavy-duty trucks. However, their operations face challenges in accurate demand forecasting for battery-swapping and fair revenue allocation. This study proposes an optimization strategy for the economic operation of BSSs that optimizes revenue allocation [...] Read more.
Battery-swapping stations (BSSs) are pivotal for supplying energy to electric heavy-duty trucks. However, their operations face challenges in accurate demand forecasting for battery-swapping and fair revenue allocation. This study proposes an optimization strategy for the economic operation of BSSs that optimizes revenue allocation and load balancing to enhance financial viability and grid stability. First, factors including geographical environment, traffic conditions, and truck characteristics are incorporated to simulate swapping behaviors, supporting the construction of an accurate demand-forecasting model. Second, an optimization problem is formulated to maximize the weighted difference between BSS revenue and squared load deviations. An economic operations strategy is proposed based on an adaptive Shapley value. It enables precise evaluation of differentiated member contributions through dynamic adjustment of bias weights in revenue allocation for a strategy that aligns with the interests of multiple stakeholders and market dynamics. Simulation results validate the superior performance of the proposed algorithm in revenue maximization, peak shaving, and valley filling. Full article
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28 pages, 15254 KiB  
Article
Detailed Forecast for the Development of Electric Trucks and Tractor Units and Their Power Demand in Hamburg by 2050
by Edvard Avdevičius, Amra Jahic and Detlef Schulz
Energies 2025, 18(14), 3719; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18143719 - 14 Jul 2025
Viewed by 317
Abstract
The global urgency to mitigate climate change by reducing transport-related emissions drives the accelerated electrification of road freight transport. This paper presents a comprehensive meta-study forecasting the development and corresponding power demand of electric trucks and tractor units in Hamburg up to 2050, [...] Read more.
The global urgency to mitigate climate change by reducing transport-related emissions drives the accelerated electrification of road freight transport. This paper presents a comprehensive meta-study forecasting the development and corresponding power demand of electric trucks and tractor units in Hamburg up to 2050, emphasizing the shift from conventional to electric vehicles. Utilizing historical registration data and existing commercial and institutional reports from 2007 to 2024, the analysis estimates future distributions of electric heavy-duty vehicles across Hamburg’s 103 city quarters. Distinct approaches are evaluated to explore potential heavy-duty vehicle distribution in the city, employing Mixed-Integer Linear Programming to quantify and minimize distribution uncertainties. Power demand forecasts at this detailed geographical level enable effective infrastructure planning and strategy development. The findings serve as a foundation for Hamburg’s transition to electric heavy-duty vehicles, ensuring a sustainable, efficient, and reliable energy supply aligned with the city’s growing electrification requirements. Full article
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24 pages, 17098 KiB  
Article
A Combined Energy Management Strategy for Heavy-Duty Trucks Based on Global Traffic Information Optimization
by Haishan Wu, Liang Li and Xiangyu Wang
Sustainability 2025, 17(14), 6361; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17146361 - 11 Jul 2025
Viewed by 243
Abstract
As public concern over environmental pollution and the urgent need for sustainable development grow, the popularity of new-energy vehicles has increased. Hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) represent a significant segment of this movement, undergoing robust development and playing an important role in the global [...] Read more.
As public concern over environmental pollution and the urgent need for sustainable development grow, the popularity of new-energy vehicles has increased. Hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) represent a significant segment of this movement, undergoing robust development and playing an important role in the global transition towards sustainable mobility. Among the various factors affecting the fuel economy of HEVs, energy management strategies (EMSs) are particularly critical. With continuous advancements in vehicle communication technology, vehicles are now equipped to gather real-time traffic information. In response to this evolution, this paper proposes an optimization method for the adaptive equivalent consumption minimization strategy (A-ECMS) equivalent factor that incorporates traffic information and efficient optimization algorithms. Building on this foundation, the proposed method integrates the charge depleting–charge sustaining (CD-CS) strategy to create a combined EMS that leverages traffic information. This approach employs the CD-CS strategy to facilitate vehicle operation in the absence of comprehensive global traffic information. However, when adequate global information is available, it utilizes both the CD-CS strategy and the A-ECMS for vehicle control. Simulation results indicate that this combined strategy demonstrates effective performance, achieving fuel consumption reductions of 5.85% compared with the CD-CS strategy under the China heavy-duty truck cycle, 4.69% under the real vehicle data cycle, and 3.99% under the custom driving cycle. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Powertrain Design and Control in Sustainable Electric Vehicles)
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16 pages, 5397 KiB  
Article
Evaluation of Technical and Anthropometric Factors in Postures and Muscle Activation of Heavy-Truck Vehicle Drivers: Implications for the Design of Ergonomic Cabins
by Esteban Ortiz, Daysi Baño-Morales, William Venegas, Álvaro Page, Skarlet Guerra, Mateo Narváez and Iván Zambrano
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(14), 7775; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15147775 - 11 Jul 2025
Viewed by 463
Abstract
This study investigates how three technical factors—steering wheel tilt, torque, and cabin vibration frequency—affect driver posture. Heavy-truck drivers often suffer from musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), mainly due to poor cabin ergonomics and prolonged postures during work. In countries like Ecuador, making major structural changes [...] Read more.
This study investigates how three technical factors—steering wheel tilt, torque, and cabin vibration frequency—affect driver posture. Heavy-truck drivers often suffer from musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), mainly due to poor cabin ergonomics and prolonged postures during work. In countries like Ecuador, making major structural changes to cabin design is not feasible. These factors were identified through video analysis and surveys from drivers at two Ecuadorian trucking companies. An experimental system was developed using a simplified cabin to control these variables, while posture and muscle activity were recorded in 16 participants using motion capture, inertial sensors, and electromyography (EMG) on the upper trapezius, middle trapezius, triceps brachii, quadriceps muscle, and gastrocnemius muscle. The test protocol simulated key truck-driving tasks. Data were analyzed using ANOVA (p<0.05), with technical factors and mass index as independent variables, and posture metrics as dependent variables. Results showed that head mass index significantly affected head abduction–adduction (8.12 to 2.18°), and spine mass index influenced spine flexion–extension (0.38 to 6.99°). Among technical factors, steering wheel tilt impacted trunk flexion–extension (13.56 to 16.99°) and arm rotation (31.1 to 19.7°). Steering wheel torque affected arm rotation (30.49 to 6.77°), while vibration frequency influenced forearm flexion–extension (3.76 to 16.51°). EMG signals showed little variation between muscles, likely due to the protocol’s short duration. These findings offer quantitative support for improving cabin ergonomics in low-resource settings through targeted, cost-effective design changes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Mechanical Engineering)
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17 pages, 2486 KiB  
Article
Development of an Energy Consumption Minimization Strategy for a Series Hybrid Vehicle
by Mehmet Göl, Ahmet Fevzi Baba and Ahu Ece Hartavi
World Electr. Veh. J. 2025, 16(7), 383; https://doi.org/10.3390/wevj16070383 - 7 Jul 2025
Viewed by 286
Abstract
Due to the limitations of current battery technologies—such as lower energy density and high cost compared to fossil fuels—electric vehicles (EVs) face constraints in applications requiring extended range or heavy payloads, such as refuse trucks. As a midterm solution, hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) [...] Read more.
Due to the limitations of current battery technologies—such as lower energy density and high cost compared to fossil fuels—electric vehicles (EVs) face constraints in applications requiring extended range or heavy payloads, such as refuse trucks. As a midterm solution, hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) combine internal combustion engines (ICEs) and electric powertrains to enable flexible energy usage, particularly in urban duty cycles characterized by frequent stopping and idling. This study introduces a model-based energy management strategy using the Equivalent Consumption Minimization Strategy (ECMS), tailored for a retrofitted series hybrid refuse truck. A conventional ISUZU NPR 10 truck was instrumented to collect real-world driving and operational data, which guided the development of a vehicle-specific ECMS controller. The proposed strategy was evaluated over five driving cycles—including both standardized and measured urban scenarios—under varying load conditions: Tare Mass (TM) and Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM). Compared with a rule-based control approach, ECMS demonstrated up to 14% improvement in driving range and significant reductions in exhaust gas emissions (CO, NOx, and CO2). The inclusion of auxiliary load modeling further enhances the realism of the simulation results. These findings validate ECMS as a viable strategy for optimizing fuel economy and reducing emissions in hybrid refuse truck applications. Full article
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30 pages, 3374 KiB  
Review
Review and Outlook of Fuel Cell Power Systems for Commercial Vehicles, Buses, and Heavy Trucks
by Xingxing Wang, Jiaying Ji, Junyi Li, Zhou Zhao, Hongjun Ni and Yu Zhu
Sustainability 2025, 17(13), 6170; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17136170 - 4 Jul 2025
Viewed by 673
Abstract
The power system, which is also one of the most crucial parts of fuel cell cars, marks the biggest distinction between them and conventional automobiles. Fuel cell hybrid power systems are reviewed in this paper along with their current state of research. Three [...] Read more.
The power system, which is also one of the most crucial parts of fuel cell cars, marks the biggest distinction between them and conventional automobiles. Fuel cell hybrid power systems are reviewed in this paper along with their current state of research. Three different kinds of fuel cell hybrid power systems—fuel cell–battery, fuel cell–supercapacitor, and fuel cell–battery–supercapacitor—are thoroughly compared and analyzed, and they are systematically explained in the three areas of passenger cars, buses, and heavy duty trucks. Existing fuel cell hybrid systems and energy strategies are systematically reviewed and summarized, including predictive control strategies based on game theory, power allocation strategies, fuzzy control strategies, and adaptive super twisted sliding mode control (ASTSMC) energy management techniques. This study offers recommendations and direction for the future direction of fuel cell hybrid power system research and development. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Powertrain Design and Control in Sustainable Electric Vehicles)
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18 pages, 10702 KiB  
Project Report
Truck Axle Weights and Interaxle Spacings from Traffic Surveys in Mexican Highways
by Adrián-David García-Soto, Adrián Pozos-Estrada, Alejandro Hernández-Martínez and Jesús-Gerardo Valdés-Vázquez
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(13), 7531; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15137531 - 4 Jul 2025
Viewed by 272
Abstract
In structural and bridge engineering, the axle weights and interaxle spacings of heavy trucks are useful for assessing the capacity of existing bridges, developing live load models, and other issues. Weigh-in-motion data have become the most common source for recording axle weights and [...] Read more.
In structural and bridge engineering, the axle weights and interaxle spacings of heavy trucks are useful for assessing the capacity of existing bridges, developing live load models, and other issues. Weigh-in-motion data have become the most common source for recording axle weights and interaxle spacings; however, information is not as direct and may not be as precise as that from static surveys. Surveying vehicles by stopping them beside the highway is not common nowadays; nevertheless, surveys provide very reliable information on truck axle weights and interaxle spacing. In this study, data from three surveys on two Mexican highways recorded in 2016 and 2018 are provided. The data contain the gross vehicular weights, axle weights, and interaxle spacings of heavy trucks. The discussion is given as to how the provided information can be useful for the bridge and transportation engineering community and for reliability and code calibration tasks for Mexican bridges and a future design code for bridges in Mexico City. It is concluded that statistical values are consistent with WIM data, with differences due to different methods used, recording time, samples size and others, and that trucks heavier than the legal weight circulate in Mexican highways; static surveys are useful to strongly support this important issue. Further research to compare samples from different surveying techniques, as well as the use of the information to investigate load effects on bridges, is recommended. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Research on Transportation Means)
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25 pages, 2173 KiB  
Article
Quantifying Topography-Dependent Ultrafine Particle Exposure from Diesel Emissions in Appalachia Using Traffic Counts as a Surrogate Measure
by Nafisat O. Isa, Bailley Reggetz, Ojo. A. Thomas, Andrew C. Nix, Sijin Wen, Travis Knuckles, Marcus Cervantes, Ranjita Misra and Michael McCawley
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(13), 7415; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15137415 - 1 Jul 2025
Viewed by 595
Abstract
Diesel particulate matter—primarily ultrafine particles (UFPs), defined as particles smaller than 0.1 µm—are released by diesel-powered vehicles, especially those used in heavy-duty hauling. While much of the existing research on traffic-related air pollution focuses on urban environments, limited attention has been paid to [...] Read more.
Diesel particulate matter—primarily ultrafine particles (UFPs), defined as particles smaller than 0.1 µm—are released by diesel-powered vehicles, especially those used in heavy-duty hauling. While much of the existing research on traffic-related air pollution focuses on urban environments, limited attention has been paid to how complex topography influences the concentration of UFPs, particularly in areas with significant truck traffic. With a focus on Morgantown, West Virginia, an area distinguished by a steep topography, this study investigates how travel over two different terrain conditions affects UFP concentrations close to roadways. Specifically, we sought to determine if the truck count taken from simultaneous video evidence could be used as a surrogate for varying topography in determining the concentration of UFPs. This study shows that “TRUCK COUNT” and “TRUCK SPEED” have a linear relationship and yield a possible surrogate measure of the lung dose of UFP number concentration. Our results demonstrate a statistically significant (p < 0.1) linear relationship between truck count and UFP number concentration (R = 0.77 and 0.40), validating truck count along with truck speed as a medium effect surrogate for estimating near-road UFP exposure. Dose estimation using the Multiple-Path Particle Dosimetry (MPPD) model further revealed that approximately 30% of inhaled UFPs are deposited in the alveolar region, underscoring the public health relevance of this exposure pathway in topographically complex areas. This method ultimately awaits comparison with health effects to determine its true potential as a useful exposure metric. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Air Pollution Detection and Air Quality Research)
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25 pages, 1264 KiB  
Article
Potential Assessment of Electrified Heavy-Duty Trailers Based on the Methods Developed for EU Legislation (VECTO Trailer)
by Stefan Present and Martin Rexeis
Future Transp. 2025, 5(3), 77; https://doi.org/10.3390/futuretransp5030077 - 1 Jul 2025
Viewed by 360
Abstract
Since 1 January 2024, newly produced heavy-duty trailers are subject to the assessment of their performance regarding CO2 and fuel consumption according to Implementing Regulation (EU) 2022/1362. The method is based on the already established approach for the CO2 and energy [...] Read more.
Since 1 January 2024, newly produced heavy-duty trailers are subject to the assessment of their performance regarding CO2 and fuel consumption according to Implementing Regulation (EU) 2022/1362. The method is based on the already established approach for the CO2 and energy consumption evaluation of trucks and buses, i.e., applying a combination of component testing and vehicle simulation using the software VECTO (Vehicle Energy Consumption calculation TOol). For the evaluation of trailers, generic conventional towing vehicles in combination with the specific CO2 and fuel consumption-relevant properties of the trailer, such as mass, aerodynamics, rolling resistance etc., are simulated in the “VECTO Trailer” software. The corresponding results are used in the European HDV CO2 standards with which manufacturers must comply to avoid penalty payments (2030: −10% for semitrailers and −7.5% for trailers compared with the baseline year 2025). Methodology and legislation are currently being extended to also cover the effects of electrified trailers (trailers with an electrified axle and/or electrically supplied auxiliaries) on CO2, electrical energy consumption, and electric range extension (special use case in combination with a battery-electric towing vehicle). This publication gives an overview of the developed regulatory framework and methods to be implemented in a future extension of VECTO Trailer as well as a comparison of different e-trailer configurations and usage scenarios regarding their impact on CO2, energy consumption, and electric range by applying the developed methods in a preliminary potential analysis. Results from this analysis indicate that e-trailers that use small batteries (5–50 kWh) to power electric refrigeration units achieve a CO2 reduction of 5–10%, depending primarily on battery capacity. In contrast, e-trailers designed for propulsion support with larger batteries (50–500 kWh) and e-axle(s) (50–500 kW) demonstrate a reduction potential of up to 40%, largely determined by battery capacity and e-axle rating. Despite their reduction potential, market acceptance of e-trailers remains uncertain as the higher number of trailers compared with towing vehicles could lead to slow adoption, especially of the more expensive configurations. Full article
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23 pages, 2596 KiB  
Article
Adaptive Longitudinal Speed Control for Heavy-Duty Vehicles Considering Actuator Constraints and Disturbances Using Simulation Validation
by Junyoung Lee, Taeyoung Oh and Jinwoo Yoo
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(13), 7327; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15137327 - 29 Jun 2025
Viewed by 406
Abstract
Heavy-duty vehicles (HDVs), such as buses and commercial trucks, display unique dynamic characteristics due to their high mass and specific actuator properties. These factors make HDVs particularly sensitive to changes in vehicle load and road gradient, which significantly affect their longitudinal control performance. [...] Read more.
Heavy-duty vehicles (HDVs), such as buses and commercial trucks, display unique dynamic characteristics due to their high mass and specific actuator properties. These factors make HDVs particularly sensitive to changes in vehicle load and road gradient, which significantly affect their longitudinal control performance. In other words, such variations present considerable challenges in maintaining stable and efficient longitudinal control of HDVs. To address these challenges, this study proposes a model reference adaptive control (MRAC) framework explicitly designed for HDVs. The control system utilizes a state predictor to mitigate actuator load problems caused by high-frequency components in the adaptive control input. In addition, when input constraints are present, the reference model is modified using the μ-modification technique. The system satisfies Lyapunov stability conditions and ensures stable longitudinal control performance across a range of driving conditions. The proposed closed-loop longitudinal control system was evaluated by implementing the controller using the vehicle dynamics simulation software IPG TruckMaker 12.0.1 and integrated with MATLAB/Simulink R2022b. The test scenarios included repetitive speed change maneuvers, which accounted for uncertainties such as road gradients, headwinds, and vehicle load conditions. The simulation results show that the control system not only effectively suppresses disturbances but also enables stable longitudinal speed tracking by considering actuator load and constraints, outperforming conventional MRAC. These results suggest that the proposed closed-loop longitudinal control system can be effectively applied to HDVs. The findings suggest that the proposed closed-loop longitudinal control system can be effectively applied to HDVs, ensuring improved stability and performance under real-world driving conditions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Control Systems and Control Engineering)
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22 pages, 2493 KiB  
Article
Design of Constant Speed Controller for Hydraulic Retarder Based on Robust Control
by Pengxiang Song, Ao Meng and Yang Ding
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(13), 7058; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15137058 - 23 Jun 2025
Viewed by 274
Abstract
Achieving long downhill constant-speed driving of heavy vehicles is of great significance for improving vehicle transport safety. As a kind of auxiliary brake, the hydraulic retarder has the characteristics of large braking torque and compact structure. More importantly, the hydraulic retarder is capable [...] Read more.
Achieving long downhill constant-speed driving of heavy vehicles is of great significance for improving vehicle transport safety. As a kind of auxiliary brake, the hydraulic retarder has the characteristics of large braking torque and compact structure. More importantly, the hydraulic retarder is capable of braking for a long period of time, which enables the vehicle to travel downhill at a constant speed with less or no use of mechanical brakes. However, due to the complexity of hydraulic retarder braking conditions, its output braking torque presents time-varying and non-linear characteristics, and the control of the hydraulic retarder filling rate in order to achieve the vehicle’s long downhill constant-speed braking is a challenging problem. This research proposes a constant-speed control strategy utilizing the robust control method to address the issue of prolonged downhill braking at constant speed for heavy-duty vehicles, which achieves constant-speed and stable driving downhill by controlling the filling rate of the hydraulic retarder. Initially, the dynamic model of the downhill process for heavy-duty vehicles and the physical model of the hydraulic retarder are established. Then, based on the concept of sliding mode control, the sliding mode controller with saturation function and the high-frequency robust controller are developed to modulate the filling rate of the hydraulic retarder in response to variations in vehicle speed. In order to verify the effectiveness of the algorithm, three different operating conditions were set according to the vehicle mass and road gradient, and simulation tests were carried out in the MATLAB/Simulink environment. Simulation results indicate that the high-frequency controller exhibits remarkable robustness against dynamic disturbances within the system. Additionally, when variations in vehicle mass and road gradient occur, the root mean square error of the high-frequency controller’s speed, in comparison to the fuzzy controller, decreases by 0.1157 km/h, while the maximum absolute error in vehicle speed diminishes by 0.248 km/h. Simultaneously, the high-frequency controller proficiently suppresses chatter, thereby meeting the demand for consistent speed braking in big trucks on prolonged downhill gradients. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Mechanical Engineering)
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