Propulsion System Integration of a Parallel Through The Road Hybrid Electric Vehicle

Abstract

This thesis outlines the mechanical design and integration of a P0/P4 Parallel Through-the-Road Hybrid Electric Vehicle. The vehicle is McMaster University’s entrant into the EcoCAR Mobility Challenge, the current offering of the long running Advanced Vehicle Technology Competition series. The competition challenges students to electrify a 2019 Chevrolet Blazer, while meeting the needs of a car sharing platform.

The design of the McMaster vehicle will be explored, starting with a walkthrough of the architecture selection process performed in the first year of competition. The design process of both powertrains will be examined, starting with component selection and working up to assembly integration. Particular attention will be paid to the rear electrified powertrain, which has been designed from the ground up for this purpose, including custom single speed gear reduction.

The current integration status of the vehicle will be shown. Timeline delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic will be discussed, as well as next steps to move towards complete vehicle integration. A vehicle testing plan will be put forward, using the cutting edge systems available at the McMaster Automotive Resource Center.