Vehicle Systems Integration Laboratory
The Vehicle Systems Integration (VSI) Laboratory offers unique capabilities to test, simulate, and evaluate engines, electric motors, and transmissions in conventional and hybrid powertrain configurations for vehicles ranging from light-duty cars to Class 8 trucks. The VSI Lab is changing the pace of powertrain development by performing prototype research and characterization of advanced systems and hardware components.
The lab features “X”-in-the-loop hardware evaluation of powertrain components and/or subsystems in virtual vehicle environments, where “X” represents any experimental component or subsystem. It is capable of accommodating a range of platforms from advanced light-duty vehicles to hybridized Class 8 powertrains with the goals of improving overall system efficiency and reducing emissions. Coupling this data-rich asset with the Center for Transportation Analysis'complementary capabilities in analysis, modeling, simulation, and visualization represents a powerful resource for users.
Through the VSI Lab’s industry CRADA partner, Meritor Inc., the lab is able to bridge modeling/simulation/analysis and controls development of prototype hardware in transient operation of the Meritor Class 8 tractor drivetrain. Other significant collaborations with the VSI Lab include the Department of Energy, Environmental Protection Agency, the International Council on Clean Transportation, Eaton Corporation, California Air Resources Board, National Renewable Energy Laboratory, Argonne National Laboratory, and SAE International.