Modelling and Validation of Drive Power and Battery Requirements for a Cargo E-Bike (FOGO)

Project description

Starting with direct technology consultations, the Institute of Electronics and Computer Science (EDI) carried out experimentation, piloting and testing activities on behalf of SIA "FOGO" to support the development of an electric cargo bike, with particular attention to the selection of the electric drive system, energy efficiency and battery system optimisation.

The aim of the project was to research and assess the technical parameters of the electric cargo bike's drive system, determining the optimal requirements for electric motor power, torque and battery performance under various operating and load conditions.

During the research, a physical and mathematical model was developed for analysing vehicle motion dynamics, electric motor power and energy consumption. The drive system was modelled for various cargo weights of up to 200 kg, evaluating acceleration dynamics, motor load, battery current consumption, as well as the effects of road gradient and headwind on system performance.

In addition, the project analysed control options for brushless DC (BLDC) electric motors, battery capacity and battery management system (BMS) requirements, as well as the possibilities of using sensors and an intelligent pedal assist system.

As a result of the project, the drive system parameters were modelled and the calculations validated, and engineering recommendations were prepared for the selection of the electric motor, battery and control system. The results provide a technical basis for further development of the cargo e-bike prototype, promoting the development of energy-efficient and sustainable cargo transportation solutions.

Researchers involved in the project

• Didzis Lapsa
• Rodions Saltanovs
• Egils Bēriņš (coordinator on behalf of the DAoL project)

Funding

The work was carried out in cooperation with the association "Latvijas Digitālais akselerators" (Latvian Digital Accelerator), with co-funding from the European Union project "Latvian Digital Accelerator" (DAoL, ID No. 101083718) and the European Union Recovery and Resilience Facility (ID No. 2.2.1.1.i.0/1/23/I/CFLA/002).