Comparative performance evaluation of P2 and P3 hybrid electric vehicle architectures under WLTC driving conditions

Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs) has drawn considerable attention, aiming as a practical approach to improving fuel economy and lowering vehicle emissions by combining internal combustion engines with electric propulsion systems. Among the various hybrid designs, P2 and P3 configurations stand out for their unique features related to energy transfer, electric driving capability, and overall powertrain performance. This study compares the performance of P2 and P3 HEV architecture using the SimulationX platform under standardized Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicles Test Cycle (WLTC) conditions. To make a fair comparison focused on hybrid design, both models used the same vehicle specifications, battery parameters, engine and motor performance characteristics, and control inputs. The performance of both architectures was evaluated using key parameters such as fuel mass flow, battery state of charge (SOC), vehicle velocity, and regenerative braking behavior. The results show that both architectures effectively use electric mode during low-speed conditions below 40 km/h, which reduces fuel consumption during urban driving. Under the investigated WLTC conditions and rule-based energy-management strategy, the P2 architecture recorded lower cumulative fuel consumption and a greater electric-drive-mode contribution than the P3 architecture. P3 exhibited a higher electric-braking-mode contribution. These findings demonstrate that motor placement and its interaction with the selected control strategy influence power flow, operating-mode distribution, and cycle-level energy consumption.