Lightweight Electric City Vehicle

Increasing fuel prices, CO2 taxes, and congestion charges like in London will increase the demand for electric vehicles in the future. As the storage of electrical energy is still the main cost driver, the focus must be on the reduction of energy consumption. A parameter which has a significant influence is the vehicle weight. Additionally it is easier in Europe to homologate lightweight vehicles. In cooperation with four students a concept for a lightweight, electric city vehicle was developed. This book describes the definition and integration of three major modules in this vehicle. The module chassis includes front and rear suspension, steering system, brakes and tires. The module drivetrain consists of the electric motor with transmission, the drive shafts, the high voltage ECUs, the vehicle control unit and the accelerator pedal. The battery and the high voltage distribution unit are included in the module energy storage. The functional requirements for these components are defined from the full vehicle specifications. Additional geometrical requirements from package or ergonomics are considered. Suitable parts are selected from existing parts or conceptually designed. Finally estimated costs and weights of the parts are compared with target values.