Driving pattern analysis of hybrid and electric vehicles in a German conurbation including a drive system evaluation

Abstract

The official vehicle consumption data given by the vehicle manufacturer are in many countries based on standardised test cycles such as the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC). In reality, vehicle consumption normally differs depending on the individual usage profile. However, the knowledge of realistic consumption patterns plays an important role especially in the case of electric vehicles due to the range reduction due to energy consumption. This paper gives an overview of the typical usage profiles of electric and hybrid cars based on real driving data, which was recorded within a German conurbation. Based on these recorded driving profiles in combination with appropriate vehicle simulation models realistic consumption patterns and ranges are generated. Effects of different charging scenarios and various battery sizes are discussed. Finally, the suitability and efficiency of conventional cars as well as battery electric and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles for the regarded driving profiles are compared and evaluated.