Powertrain optimization of a series hybrid race car

In recent years, we have witnessed the introduction of hybrid powertrains into the world of automobile racing. When compared to their conventional counter parts, hybrid powertrains demonstrate increased complexity with added degrees of freedom and technical barriers. For this reason, optimization of these systems becomes significantly more difficult requiring novel techniques.;The conclusions of the optimization process agree reasonably with the results from track testing of a subsequent vehicle equipped with a powertrain design based on the work performed. The simulation techniques employed here realized significant improvement in the vehicle performance and provided the ability to optimize the powertrain for any set of known race conditions.;This thesis documents the work performed to develop simulation techniques intended for the optimization of a series hybrid powertrain which was itself designed for an open wheeled, single seat race vehicle. The methodology employs computer simulation techniques such as driver-in-the-loop and forward facing powertrain models to optimize the vehicle powertrain for a specific set of known race conditions. Data obtained from an existing vehicle and its individual components, was used in the creation and validation of the models developed for this work.