Simple Vehicle Powertrain Model for Modeling Intelligent Vehicle Applications

This research develops a simple vehicle powertrain model that can be incorporated within microscopic traffic simulation software for the modeling of intelligent vehicle applications. This simple model can be calibrated using vehicle parameters that are publically available without the need for field data collection. The model uses the driver throttle level input to compute the engine speed and, subsequently, the engine torque and power to finally compute the vehicle acceleration, speed, and position. The model is tested using field measurements and is demonstrated to produce vehicle power, fuel consumption, acceleration, speed, and position estimates that are consistent with field observations.