Hybrid Electrical Vehicles, Part 1: Introduction

A two-day course intended for those who have only an outline knowledge of Hybrid Electrical Vehicles. The course will consist of a mix of lectures and case studies from both academic and industrial specialists in HEV technology plus vehicle demonstrations at one of the UK's foremost track test facilities.

Objectives: To provide managers and engineers with a broad understanding of Hybrid Electric Vehicle technology and its impact on both the global automotive industry and the environment.

Main themes  Over two days the course will provide:

• the broad scenario and developmental road map
• a detailed description of the main HEV powertrain architecture options including parallel, series, complex, through-the-road and plug-in plus the different levels of hybridisation; full, mild and micro that can be achieved
• critical comparisons of HEVs with alternatives such as EVs and fuel cell systems
• sustainability assessment of the environmental benefits of HEV technology including considerations of both legislative compliance and real-world experiences and economic aspects of HEVs
• an overview of the current and expected growth of HEV activity within the industry and the technology requirements for consumer acceptance.

Syllabus

System & Component Overview

• Powertrain architecture - parallel, series, micro, mild, plug-in etc.
• Vehicle layout and packaging options.
• Energy storage comparisons
• Case studies.

Environmental Impact

• Legislative performance (CO₂, gas and particulate emissions).
• Real world performance (off cycle, durability).
• Sustainability assessment; cradle to grave environmental impact.

Industry Activity and Market Reaction

• HEV market drivers and technology trends.
• Customer acceptance of HEVs.
• HEV technology commercialisation.

Vehicle Based HEV Performance Evaluation

• Assessment of HEVs under track conditions at Millbrook Proving Ground.