OptiBATT_IRVA - Optimal system design and digitalization of battery systems for heavy-duty applications

Heavy-duty transportation sector, including maritime transport, is undergoing significant decarbonization. Heavy-duty vehicles account for more than 25% of greenhouse gas emissions from road transport in the EU2 while maritime transportation sector will be responsible for 12-18% of global CO2 emissions by 20503. Battery powered propulsion system offers a viable solution based on total cost of ownership. While the long-term savings are promising, the transition faces hurdles, notably the high upfront cost compared to conventional equivalents, which is a significant consideration for stakeholders. Heavy-duty motion products4 demand a challenging combination of high power for heavy loads with high energy for acceptable distance range between recharges. Consequently, batteries must be significantly oversized to maintain the desired capacity for the expected lifetime, driving up the costs and presenting a major obstacle to the wider adoption of electric heavy-duty applications. Battery hybridization5 is a promising solution, however, it is considered presently to be a low TRL solution requiring further research for wider adoption for the targeted applications. This project aims at hybrid battery pack sizing using an optimal combination of current and next generation battery technologies for heavy-duty applications. Additionally, to reduce the operational cost of the motion product4 with respect to battery degradation, the project aims at introducing an energy management system (EMS) to further extend application range while optimizing battery lifetime. As a result, the hybrid battery pack is not only optimally sized but also intelligently managed throughout the machine’s operational lifecycle, thereby reducing the operational cost (OPEX) in addition to the design and acquisition cost (CAPEX).