First assessment on suspension parameter optimization for a solar – powered vehicle

Abstract

Optimization of suspension parameters with respect to comfort and road holding is a challenging issue for solar–powered cars, due to in–wheel electric engines on very light vehicles, carrying payloads which can exceed their total mass. The solar–powered car considered in this study was designed and manufactured for racing by the University of Bologna; with a mass of 300 kg and a payload of 320 kg due to four occupants, using 5 m2 of monocrystalline silicon photovoltaic panel on the roof, 64 kg of lithium–ion batteries and two electric engines coupled directly to the rear wheels, it can achieve either a range of 600 km at cruising speed, or velocity peaks of 120 km/h. In this contribution, equivalent vertical stiffness and equivalent damping coefficients are optimized for both axles, achieving results that in terms of comfort and road holding are comparable to those of standard passenger cars.

Strain Modal Testing with Fiber Bragg Gratings for Automotive Applications

“…The vehicle mass is 300 kg, thanks to the extensive use of Carbon Fiber-Reinforced Plastic Polymer (CFRP), and the payload, consisting of the four occupants, is estimated to be 320 kg. The vehicle is equipped with 64 kg lithium-ion batteries, charged by a 5 m 2 monocrystalline silicon photovoltaic panel, which is placed on the roof [72].…”

Life Cycle Assessment of a Lithium-Ion Battery Pack Unit Made of Cylindrical Cells

“…Emilia 4 is a 4-seats competitive vehicle, fully made of carbon fibers, whose main characteristics are: two rear in-wheel electric motors, 5 m 2 of monocrystalline silicon solar panels and a 32 kWh Li-ion battery pack. Several studies have already been devoted to design, environmental, mechanical, and electrical aspects related to Onda Solare solar cars [50][51][52][53][54][55][56][57][58]. Taking into account Emilia 4, the aim of this work is to deepen the knowledge regarding the environmental impact of its BP.…”