Research of operation conditions for N1 category hybrid trucks

Abstract

At the intersection of several key trends—tightening environmental standards for vehicles, relentless urbanization, growing dependence on fuel imports, and the increasing role of light commercial vehicles in e-commerce logistics—the efficiency of the powertrain for N1 category vehicles becomes critically important. N1 category vehicles constitute a significant share of the vehicle fleet, and according to manufacturer data, they operate in urban driving modes for over 75\% of their working time. The most suitable solution for this operating regime appears to be the hybrid powertrain, which has been developed over the last 20 years and is widely implemented in passenger transport. A significant lag in both scientific research and practical implementation of hybrid systems for this vehicle type has been identified. To address this gap, a practical study of the operating conditions of a popular commercial vehicle (Mercedes Sprinter 208 CDI, Euro 6) was conducted under real-world conditions during a typical working day. This provided an empirical basis for further mathematical modeling. Analysis of data from the on-board computer and an OBDII scanner identified specific features of the duty cycle, notably a significant proportion of coasting, accounting for 35% of the route (44.2 km). This confirms the potential for energy recuperation and the use of a hybrid powertrain in conditions with frequent stops. At this stage, a preliminary analysis of data collected from the on-board computer for $20 stops has been conducted. The obtained data were systematized into a tabular form, and graphs of speed and fuel consumption changes were plotted. Data collected via the OBDII scanner, including speed, acceleration, engine load, longitudinal road grade, and the impact of driving style, will be used for further, more detailed analysis. The obtained empirical data will form the basis for subsequent mathematical modeling. This will enable the development of optimal hybrid powertrain configurations, including the power split between the internal combustion engine and the electric motor, as well as the capacity of the traction battery. The research results will not only enhance fuel efficiency—increasing the competitiveness of transport companies by reducing the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO), as confirmed by recent international studies (e.g., TCO for HEV trucks is the lowest)—but will also contribute to reducing harmful emissions, particularly in urban cycles, thereby positively impacting the environmental situation, namely air quality.