HYBRID VEHICLE SIMULATION FOR A TURBOGENERATOR-BASED POWER-TRAIN

The potential of the turbogenerator-based power-train for hybrid vehic les is described. Data from a small gas turbine, a prototype high-spee d generator and an advanced lead-acid battery pack show that the 'turb oelectric' concept is feasible and can provide a viable road transport solution which will comply with the stringent environmental legislati on. The simulation results show improved overall vehicle efficiencies due to the implementation of regenerative braking capability. Most imp ortantly the lean combustion of the gas-turbine engine with a suitable energy control strategy can provide lower emissions than ultra-low-em ission vehicle (ULEV) limits, while an acceptable zero-emissions vehic le (ZEV) driving range can be achieved for city centres.