2 3 F O C U S After specifying the components, the measures are implemented in a prototype vehicle at AVL – frequently in close collaboration with the OEM. “To calibrate and validate the proposed measures in the vehicle, the same extended tool, AVL DRIVE, is applied which was used previously for vehicle benchmarking, permitting an objective assessment of the vehicle attributes. And so, in a sense, after performing the extensive simulations we have come full circle. Using the AVL DRIVE extension, we validate the result in the prototype and can demonstrate objectively that the measures carried out by AVL not only help to meet the CO2 targets. The requirements of all the other vehicle attributes are satisfied too,” says Mario Oswald. Besides optimizing conventionally powered vehicles, a comprehensive procedure is also excellently suited for enhancing the efficiency in electrified vehicles. Erich Ramschak, lead engineer, Vehicle, explained why this is so: “With electrified powertrains that already have a very high level of efficiency as it is, adjustments made to the vehicle, like reducing the rolling friction or optimizing the aerodynamics, can enhance overall vehicle efficiency even further, which, in turn, improves the driving range. Another fact to keep in mind is that in electrified vehicles the relatively heavy battery, for example, has a considerable impact on handling and driving comfort. With our tools we can simulate this factor, analyze how they interact with each other and assess various measures.” COMBINED EXPERTISE AT AVL Where more cost-intensive CO2- reduction measures are concerned, in particular, it is vital for OEMs to have development partners that can draw on well-founded expertise in a full range of specialized fields, and provide a basis for making decisions on what is to be incorporated into series production. “Drawing on indepth knowledge, we at AVL can advise customers in all sub-areas, ranging > Based on the simulation results, suitable packages of measures are highlighted, which, in addition to reducing CO2, also satisfy the peripheral conditions of all the other functional vehicle features, including cost and weight targets. from engine and powertrain to the vehicle, and, by employing the advanced AVL tools, we can accurately simulate the CO2 measures we have developed, and in collaboration with each of the specialized teams we can evaluate them with regard to their impact on the engine, powertrain system and vehicle. In doing so, the results in all sub-areas optimally secured,” explains Erich Ramschak. Peter Schöggl stresses the necessity to adopt an integrated approach to CO2 reduction, too: “The big challenge all OEMs face is to produce vehicles with low CO2 emissions that are affordable and still fun to drive. Optimizing the powertrain alone frequently no longer suffices in achieving this objective. A comprehensive approach is needed – and that is exactly what we at AVL can provide, based on our individual areas of expertise, which we optimally combine to find the best possible overall solution.“ <
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