Modeling and simulation of an Electric Vehicle to test the effect of different materials on the overall efficiency.

A Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) is a vehicle solely propelled by electric energy stored in the battery. The transition from an Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) vehicle to a BEV has been rapid in the last decade, fuelled by government subsidies and incentives in a bid to move away from fossil fuels. However, the major bottleneck in the transition lies in the range and charging times of a BEV as compared to the ICE counterpart. This thesis explores the effects of weight reduction on the performance of the BEV in terms of efficiency and range. The weight reduction may also lead to a further savings in terms of size of the battery pack, lower charging times and overall, a better vehicle. One of the objectives of this study is to understand the use of simulation and modelling techniques to evaluate the influence of weight reduction on the performance of Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs). As the automotive industry is more inclined towards sustainable and energy-efficient transportation solutions, understanding the effects of weight reduction on BEV performance becomes paramount. The research begins by constructing a detailed computational model of a BEV, incorporating numerous factors such as vehicle dynamics, battery characteristics, motor specifications, and environmental conditions. This model serves as the foundation for conducting simulations to assess the performance of the BEV under different weight reduction scenarios. Simulation results provide valuable insights into the trade-offs associated with weight reduction strategies in BEVs. Moreover, the thesis also focuses on the implications of weight reduction on other aspects of BEV design and operation, such as battery sizing, thermal management, and charging infrastructure requirements. By considering these interconnected factors, a comprehensive overview of the broader implications of weight reduction initiatives in the context of electric vehicle development.