Abstract:

This work investigated the potential of implementing the dual-fuel Reactivity Controlled Compression Ignition (RCCI) combustion mode in a plug-in hybrid vehicle platform. The results are compared against other electrifications levels and no-hybrid vehicles under the Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP) normative. Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs) can be considered as a potential technology to promote the change from conventional mobility to e-mobility. However, the real benefits in terms of CO2 emissions depend on a great extent on their mode of use, vehicle design, and electricity source. On the other hand, in the last few years, advanced combustion modes as RCCI showed great advantages in terms of NOx and soot emissions reduction. This paper has the purpose of assessing, through numerical simulations fed with experimental results, the potential of different hybrid vehicles when used together with a low temperature combustion mode. In particular, the dual-fuel Mild (MHEV), Full (FHEV) and Plug-in (PHEV) hybrid electric vehicles are tested and compared to the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) and the conventional dual-fuel powertrain, both no-Hybrid vehicles. The powertrains are optimized to meet the current European homologation legislation (WLTP. After that, a deep analysis is performed in terms of performance and emissions. Lastly, a life-cycle analysis (LCA) is performed to evaluate the real potential of the different technologies. The results show that PHEV technology together with dual-fuel consumption has strong potential to reduce local and global pollution.