Model-based automotive system integration: Using vehicle hardware in-the-loop simulation for an integration of advanced hybrid electric powertrain

This paper presents a new method for the design and validation of advanced propulsion systems using a new approach called vehicle hardware-in-the-loop (VHiL); where the development process, and mainly the validation phase, of adding hybrid electric powertrain modules to an existing platform is carried out faster, in a cost effective and controllable manner. In the VHiL laboratory a complete real vehicle equipped with a conventional powertrain is set up in a hardware-in-the-loop simulation environment, where a chassis dynamometer is used to simulate the road load. The working principle and the added value of VHiL are demonstrated with test results of the performance of the system. This new concept assists validating the inclusion of hybrid electric module to an existing platform during the design/concept stage.