Acta Mechanica Slovaca 2025, 29(4):22-27 | DOI: 10.21496/ams.2025.030

Virtual Prototyping of Electric Vehicle Powertrain Using Multibody Dynamics and Spline-Based Motor Models

Jozef Bucha1, *, Zarko Miskovic2, Tomáš Milesich3
1 Slovak University of Technology in Bratislava, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Námestie slobody 17, 812 31, Bratislava, Slovakia
2 University of Belgrade, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Kraljice Marije 16, 11120 Belgrade, Serbia
3 Slovak University of Technology, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Námestie slobody 17, 812 31, Bratislava, Slovakia

This paper presents the development and validation of a multibody dynamics (MBD) model for the VW e-Up Boost electric vehicle using Adams/Car software. The study focuses on modeling the vehicle's powertrain system, which includes a front-mounted electric motor and two rear Emrax 288 electric motors. The powertrain model utilizes spline-based torque characteristics to accurately represent electric motor behaviour. A three-level modeling approach (template, subsystem, and assembly) is implemented to create a comprehensive vehicle simulation environment. The vehicle model incorporates a modified suspension system with MacPherson struts at both front and rear axles. The electric motor model consists of stator and rotor components connected by a revolute joint, with torque computed using state variables based on motor speed and pedal position. The model's validity is demonstrated through straight-line acceleration simulations from 10 km/h initial velocity with 80% pedal depression. Results show the dynamic behaviour of powertrain components including rotor angular velocities and motor torques. The developed MBD model provides a valuable tool for virtual testing and optimization of electric vehicle components, enabling evaluation of performance characteristics without physical prototypes.

Keywords: Adams, Car; VW E-up Boost; Electric motor; Powertrain

Received: October 29, 2025; Revised: October 29, 2025; Accepted: November 24, 2025; Published: December 15, 2025  Show citation

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Bucha, J., Miskovic, Z., & Milesich, T. (2025). Virtual Prototyping of Electric Vehicle Powertrain Using Multibody Dynamics and Spline-Based Motor Models. Acta Mechanica Slovaca, 29(4), 22-27. doi: 10.21496/ams.2025.030
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