A Hydrogen-Based Parallel Multi-Source Hybrid System for Heavy-Duty Vehicles

Abstract

The application of green hydrogen in transportation sector is essential for achieving carbon neutrality. To improve energy efficiency and adaptability, this study proposes a hydrogen-based parallel multi-source hybrid system for heavy-duty vehicles, which combines an internal combustion (IC) engine, a proton exchange membrane fuel cell, and a battery, with a rule-based energy management strategy. Heavy-duty vehicle models were established to allow for velocity response, fuel consumption, and battery State of Charge (SoC) of the multi-source hybrid system. The multi-source hybrid system was comprehensively evaluated in different driving cycles and compared with a P2 hybrid system and an engine propulsion system. The results demonstrate that the multi-source hybrid system exhibits superior velocity responses in WLTC and NEDC driving cycles due to improved transient performance aided by motor’s intervention. Furthermore, the multi-source hybrid system shows improved hydrogen fuel economy and SoC performance, which is attributed to the efficient energy distribution and operation by fuel cells and IC engines. In terms of overall energy efficiency and cost, the multi-source hybrid system yields higher energy efficiency and superior economics under varying operating conditions. This research offers useful insights into the efficient application of hydrogen energy and the optimization of powertrains through multi-source hybrid systems for heavy-duty vehicles.

Keywords: Multi-source hybrid system, Hydrogen, IC engine, Fuel cell, Energy management