Hyundai technology to boost performance of commercial EVs

Hyundai Motor Group is developing a system to measure gross vehicle weight of light duty electric trucks to increase range and performance.

The technology is a first for the industry and uses acceleration sensors to improve the vehicle’s settings based on gross weight estimates.

The ability to calculate the gross weight of a vehicle on the move means that an electric vehicle’s torque output can be optimised for the remaining battery range.

This reduces potential wheel spin and reduced traction when a vehicle is carrying less payload.

It also allows for changes in torque output based on topography, altering the amount of torque needed to propel a vehicle uphill based on its gross weight.

“Hyundai developed this technology because we realise that we need to take a different approach when it comes to developing electric vehicles for commercial use,” Hyundai eco-technology performance development group leader Chae Mo Yang says.

“We are preparing for a future where we will be able to offer commercial EVs that operate at its optimum specifications under any given road condition and regardless of how much payload it is carrying. These vehicles will be very economical to operate.”

Price competitiveness was also taken into consideration with the technology. Hyundai developed the gross weight estimation technology with acceleration sensors instead of weight sensors so it can be applied to a vehicle not equipped with a costly air suspension system.

When the truck is carrying a heavy load, it automatically informs the driver of the estimated drive range to secure sufficient battery life for the destination.