IMPROVEMENT OF THE UFAA-19 SERIES HYBRID ELECTRIC VEHICLE

ABSTRACT

The project aims to address the environmental concerns associated with conventional internal combustion engines by developing a mini hybrid electric vehicle. The goal is to reduce emissions, fuel consumption, and noise while maintaining vehicle performance. The specific focus is on improving an alreadyfabricated vehicle, the UFAA-19 SERIES HYBRID ELECTRIC VEHICLE, by introducing new features such as a brake mechanism, reverse mechanism, and bodywork. The ultimate goal is to reduce reliance on fossil fuels by using materials that can be easily gotten locally hereby increasing the overall efficiency of the vehicle. The methodology includes two main components which are: Designing a suitable and aesthetic bodywork for the UFAA-19 SERIES HYBRID ELECTRIC VEHICLE using computer-aided design (CAD) software. This will involve creating detailed 3D models of the vehicle body and making sure that it meets all of the necessary safety and performance requirements. It also includes designing a regenerative braking system for the UFAA-19 SERIES HYBRID ELECTRIC VEHICLE using MATLAB Simulink. This will involve creating a simulation of the braking system and testing it in a virtual environment to ensure that it functions as intended and can effectively capture and store energy during braking. From the simulation results, it appears that the regenerative braking system is effective in reducing fuel consumption and increasing the battery state of charge. Specifically, it is noted that during regenerative braking, fuel consumption is minimal, with about 43% being conserved. Additionally, the battery state of charge increases from its initial 30% to 33%. The dynamic analysis and simulation also indicate that a 750W brushless motor will be sufficient when connected in parallel to an internal combustion engine with a power rating of 1600Watts for the purpose of regenerative braking. Overall, the simulation results suggest that the regenerative braking system and the use of a brushless motor in parallel with the IC engine have the potential to significantly reduce fuel consumption and improve overall efficiency of the vehicle.