Simulink modeling and energy optimization of a hybrid hydrogen vehicle

This thesis investigates the integrated modelling and simulation of a multi-source hybrid electric race vehicle developed for endurance-based competitions. In this type of race, the main objective is not maximum speed but the ability to travel the longest possible distance within a fixed time while operating under strict energy limitations. For this reason, the vehicle considered in this work combines three onboard energy sources: a lithium-ion battery pack, photovoltaic panels with a maximum power point tracking unit, and a hydrogen fuel cell system. A comprehensive simulation model was developed in MATLAB/Simulink to represent the interaction between vehicle dynamics, propulsion demand, and the hybrid energy architecture. The vehicle dynamics are modelled using a longitudinal formulation where the vehicle is treated as a rigid body with mass concentrated at the barycentre. The model accounts for the main resistive forces acting on the vehicle, including aerodynamic drag, gravitational force, and rolling resistance, which determine the traction power required during operation. Within the simulation framework, these subsystems supply the electric drivetrain according to the instantaneous power demand generated by the vehicle motion. The model was used to simulate a two-hour endurance race on a circuit with a lap length of 3565 m. Simulation results show that the vehicle can complete approximately 33.27 laps, corresponding to a total travelled distance of about 118.60 km. The results demonstrate that the combined contribution of the battery, fuel cell, and solar panels is sufficient to sustain the propulsion requirements while maintaining a stable energy balance throughout the mission. Overall, the developed model provides a useful tool for analysing hybrid energy interaction and evaluating the endurance performance of highly efficient electric race vehicles.