Session: 04-01: Modelling, Control and Design of Hybrid Powertrains

Paper Number: 165523

165523 - Propulsion Technology Selection for Oem Fleets to Realize Epa Light Duty Tier 4 Ghg Targets 

Abstract: 

In March 2024, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released the final rule, referred to as Tier 4, establishing targets for multi-pollutant emissions for model year 2027 and later light-duty and medium-duty vehicles. The rule targets a 52% reduction in GHG emissions from the light duty fleet (cars and trucks). A mechanism proposed to achieve this goal is increased sales of battery electric volumes, thereby diluting the fleet with zero emissions vehicles enabling a reduction in fleet GHG emissions.

Results will be presented from a powertrain technology study using AVLs Powertrain System Optimizer tool to investigate different powertrain technologies, such as Dedicated Hybrid Engines, powersplit and range extender, applied to a light duty truck vehicle. The study enables specifying powertrains based on legislative and customer requirements, such as charge depleting range and towing duty cycle, in order to quantify the tradeoff between different powertrain types and technology selection within the powertrain.

The outcome of the powertrain technology study has been used in a fleet GHG tool to investigate different technology makeup of OEM fleets required to achieve the legislated GHG targets, such as lower penetration of electric vehicle than assumed in the EPA Regulatory Impact Analysis. This assessment provides insight to the extent of product development required by OEMs on their product lineup in order to comply with EPA targets.

Presenting Author: Thomas Howell AVL

Presenting Author Biography: Tom Howell is the Segment Leader for Conventional Powertrain at AVL in North America. He is responsible for strategy and project delivery for AVL’s North American business related to internal combustion engines, transmissions and hybrids in all market sectors.
During his 7 years at AVL, he has led projects ranging from technology proof of concept to production engine development. Prior to AVL, Tom was Director, New Technology at Jacobs Vehicle systems for 5 years and with Ricardo for 15 years in UK and USA with positions of increasing responsibility. Tom holds a Bachelors and Masters in Mechanical Engineering from Imperial College, London, UK.

Authors:

Daniele Littera AVL
Arno Huss AVL
Charles Mendes AVL
Thomas Howell AVL