Author(s)

A. Bedrunka, L.-O. Gusig

Abstract

Because there are no specifications for determining the driving range in the pedelec field, it is up to the manufacturers to decide under which circumstances the range would be evaluated. Due to their interest in achieving the longest possible range, they normally test under ideal conditions. Moreover, as the range depends on so many different factors, it is impossible to rely on the manufacturer specification regarding the range. For a more accurate prediction of range, a more individual consideration of the parameters pedelec, driver and driving environment is necessary. One improvement in this respect is the implementation of standardized and user-specific driving cycles instead of a constant velocity. To develop driving cycles for pedelecs, the Hanover University of Applied Science and Arts adapted a method from automobile driving cycles. With this approach, a driving cycle has been developed. The range has been determined with a simulation model. The results show that the characteristics of the driving cycle leads to a shorter range. The reason for this reduction relates to the phases of acceleration in the driving cycle. Another important cause for the shorter range is the efficiency of the electric motor. Depending on the level of electric motor assistance, its optimum efficiency occurs between 18 and 23 km/h. Any deviation from this value decreases the efficiency, leading to higher energy expenditure. Standardized driving cycles have an important role for range determination in the pedelec field. However, of other factors regarding the parameters, pedelec, driver and driving environment should also receive individual consideration to determine a realistic range.

Keywords

e-bike, pedelec, driving range, multidimensional parameter space, driving cycle