Finding the optimal speed profile for an electric vehicle using a search algorithm

This master thesis presents a method to find the optimal speed profile for a dynamic system in the shape of an electric vehicle and any topography using a search algorithm. The search algorithm is capable of considering all the speed choices in a topography presented discretely, in order to find the most energy efficient one. How well the calculations made by the search algorithm represents the reality, depends on the speed and topography resolution and the vehicle energy model. With the correct settings, up to 18.4% of energy can be saved for a given topography compared to having the lowest constant speed allowed. The speed is ranging between 85-95 km/h but the method presented is capable of having any set of speed options, even if the resolution varies from point to point on the road. How to use this method and its properties is explained in detail using text and step for step figures of how the search algorithm iterates.A comparison between allowing regenerative braking and not allowing it is shown in the results. It is clear that there is most energy saving potential where no regenerative braking is allowed.Mustafa Ali Arat has stopped working at NEVS and moved abroad.