Holistic development of drive systems for light electric commercial vehicles with fuel cells (FC-driveSys)
Electrification of the vehicle drivetrain is associated with numerous challenges in terms of driving and drivetrain dynamics, comfort and costs. Vehicles with fuel cells, optimised traction motors and manual transmissions promise a particularly long range with a balanced carbon footprint. Fuel cells for mobility applications are available, but pose a number of technical challenges. Their auxiliary units in particular are therefore a major focus of research and development. Even in battery-electric vehicles, a smaller and lighter engine can be operated in its efficiency-optimised speed range by using an adapted engine-transmission unit. The overall aim of the project is to develop and validate a new, highly practical vehicle and drive system for the delivery of goods, both in urban areas and in the direct catchment area of cities. The desired increase in vehicle efficiency can be achieved by reducing losses in the drive train and by optimising the combination of components. The weight of the components plays a decisive role here, which is why the project team, in collaboration with partners from industry, is also increasingly working on topics in the field of lightweight construction using topology optimisation and additive manufacturing.
