Shell Eco-Marathon Vehicle Simulation — V2
Expanded powertrain modeling, automated analysis, and design-space exploration using MATLAB and Simulink.
Overview
Version 2 expands the original 1D vehicle dynamics model by introducing structured parameter
management, enhanced powertrain modeling, automated post-processing, and multi-parameter
design sweeps. The V2 framework supports rapid evaluation of efficiency tradeoffs and
identifies optimal operating regions for ultra-low energy vehicles.
Key Enhancements
Powertrain & Driver Strategy
- Velocity feedback added to DriverStrat block
- Dynamic calculation of engine RPM, torque, and power
- Drivetrain efficiency integrated into output force
- Throttle input added (IN1, 0–1 range)
- Parameters organized in
shell_eco_paramsV2.m
Energy Modeling
- Instantaneous mechanical power calculation
- Cumulative energy integration
- Fuel usage estimated using LHV
- Coupled velocity, position, and force signals
Analysis & Logging
- Signal logging enabled for key state variables
- Automated plotting via
analyze_shell_eco.m
- Numerical performance metrics generation
Parameter Sweeps & Optimization
- Automated 1D sweeps (Cd, mass)
- 2D design-space exploration
- Heatmap visualization
- Constrained optimal design identification
MATLAB & Simulink Scripts
The V2 workflow is supported by modular MATLAB scripts that automate parameter configuration, simulation execution, and results analysis.
- shell_eco_paramsV2.m — Parameter organization
- analyze_shell_eco.m — Automated plotting
- SuperSweep.m — Multi-parameter sweep control
- SweepHeat.m — Heatmap generation
View Source Code on GitHub
Simulation Gallery
Representative screenshots of system architecture, analysis outputs, and optimization results.
Limitations
- Many physical parameters are placeholders pending validation
- Throttle input remains constant (no closed-loop control)
- Simplified engine and drivetrain modeling
- One-dimensional vehicle dynamics only
- Fixed-duration simulation runs
- Coarse parameter sweep resolution
- No experimental data integration
Future Work (V3)
- Closed-loop driver control and throttle scheduling
- Transient engine and gearbox modeling
- Higher-resolution multi-dimensional sweeps
- Experimental validation and tuning
- Track elevation and environmental modeling
Conclusion
Version 2 demonstrates the evolution of the original vehicle dynamics model into a flexible design and optimization platform. The added automation and visualization tools support data-driven engineering decision-making.