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Electric and Hybrid-Electric buses have become a major vehicle platform for demonstrating the advantages and capabilities of electrification in heavy duty vehicles. This type of vehicle can be powered from several different sources that each have several unique operating characteristics and performance requirements that necessitate novel solutions. In this paper, a novel optimal control strategy based on the next generation range-extended electric bus (REEB) has been developed. Control strategies play an essential role in realizing the full potential of electric buses and through careful implementation can increase their effectiveness at displacing conventional internal-combustion powered buses and thus, reducing global fuel consumption and emissions. Initially, a control-oriented powertrain model was developed in Matlab/Simulink.

This paper describes the development and on-vehicle validation testing of next generation parallel hybrid electric powertrain technology for use in urban buses. A forward-facing MATLAB/Simulink powertrain model was used to develop a rule-based deterministic control system for a post-transmission parallel hybrid urban bus. The control strategy targeted areas where conventional powertrains are typically less efficient, focused on improving fuel economy and emissions without boosting vehicle performance. Stored electrical energy is deployed to assist the IC engine system leading to an overall reduction in fuel consumption while maintaining vehicle performance at a level comparable with baseline conventional IC engine operation.