In-depth analysis of battery life enhancement in solar-assisted fuel-cell range-extender vehicles

Abstract

This study explores the improvement of battery longevity in electric vehicles (EVs) by integrating solar photovoltaic (PV) and fuel cell technologies uniquely. The study primarily examines the role of vehicle-integrated PV (VIPV) systems as devices that increase the range of EVs. The research utilizes TRNSYS for solar radiation analysis and MATLAB for vehicle dynamics to evaluate several arrangements of PV panel placement, including various positions on the vehicle's exterior surfaces. An exhaustive examination is carried out to determine the most suitable positioning of PV panels, considering variables such as tilt and azimuth angles, as well as the effectiveness of energy capture. In addition, the study investigates the efficiency of various PV panel variants (Gallium Arsenide, Copper Indium Gallium Selenide, and Cadmium Telluride) throughout Europe, considering geographical and seasonal fluctuations in solar energy collection. The study analyzes the effects of using PV panels on battery longevity by examining the battery's current amplitude and fluctuations using the Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicles Test Cycle (WLTC). The study provides detailed results for various cases in the proposed topology. Results have shown that with VIPVs, the battery current amplitude and its fluctuations can be reduced by up to 7.3 % and 2.5 %, respectively.