Predictive Data-Driven Automotive Control

Default ARPA-E Project Image


Program:
NEXTCAR
Award:
$7,344,580
Location:
Berkeley, California
Status:
ACTIVE
Project Term:
03/03/2017 - 03/21/2024

Technology Description:

The University of California, Berkeley (UC Berkeley) team has developed an innovative vehicle dynamics and powertrain (VD&PT) control architecture based on a predictive and data-driven approach. In the NEXTCAR program, UC Berkeley optimized the performance of a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) in real-world conditions, improving efficiency up to 30% in urban driving and 14% on the highway. In the next NEXTCAR phase, UC Berkeley will adapt and expand its eco-route, eco-drive, and eco-charge controls to leverage connectivity and SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) Level 4 (L4) automation to generate additional fuel efficiency benefits in electrified vehicles including EVs and PHEVs. UC Berkeley’s NEXTCAR project resulted in a spin-off company, WideSense Inc., which will commercialize the technologies developed in both phases of the project.

Potential Impact:

If successful, UC Berkeley’s project will enable at least an additional 20% reduction in energy consumption of future connected and automated vehicles.

Security:

These innovations could lead to a dramatically more efficient domestic vehicle fleet, lessening U.S. dependence on imported oil.

Environment:

Greater efficiency in transportation can help reduce sector emissions, helping improve urban air quality and decreasing the sector’s carbon footprint.

Economy:

Innovations would further solidify the United States’ status as a global leader in connected and automated vehicle technology, while a more efficient vehicle fleet would reduce energy cost per mile driven and bolster economic competitiveness.

Contact

ARPA-E Program Director:
Dr. Priyanka Bakaya
Project Contact:
Prof. Francesco Borrelli
Press and General Inquiries Email:
ARPA-E-Comms@hq.doe.gov
Project Contact Email:
fborrelli@berkeley.edu

Partners

Hyundai America Technical Center
Sensys Networks

Related Projects


Release Date:
04/12/2016