Benefit Analysis of introducing electric Propulsion on Converter Dollies

Paper in proceeding, 2023

Long combination vehicles (LCVs) demonstrated substantially lower cost and energy consumption compared to tractor-semitrailers. However, they suffer from reduced longitudinal performance. Distributed propulsion over axles, i.e., electrically propelling trailers or the converter dolly (e-dolly), can resolve the reduced longitudinal performance and improve energy efficiency of these vehicles. This paper implements an advanced predictive controller for distribution of propulsion, regenerative and service brakes between axles, which ensures both optimal energy efficiency and safety. To generate the results, 4000 different roads with different topography profiles were generated statistically and used for testing the controller performance. The simulation results indicate that the fuel saving of the hybrid A-double, i.e., the one with e-dolly compared to the conventional A-double is, on average, 12%, 14.5%, 16.5%, and 17.5% on flat, predominantly flat, hilly, and very hilly roads, respectively. Both vehicles were equipped with the advanced controller. In addition, with that fuel saving, the hybrid A-double showed lower total cost of ownership in all roads if the distance traveled per year is higher than 45000 km. Moreover, the longitudinal performance, i.e., startability, gradeability, and acceleration capability were improved by 27%, 25%, and 8%, respectively.