4. Driving Resistances and Energy Consumption

The chapter delves into the intricacies of driving resistances and energy consumption in vehicles, focusing on the four primary components: aerodynamic, rolling, climbing, and acceleration resistances. It explains how these factors vary with speed and external conditions, such as road surface and wind. Notably, the text emphasizes the significant increase in energy consumption at high speeds, particularly on highways, and discusses the efficiency of braking energy recovery. The chapter also explores the differences in energy consumption between various types of vehicles, including electric and fuel cell vehicles, and provides real-world examples to illustrate these concepts. Additionally, it touches on the methodologies used to measure energy consumption, such as the WLTP and RDE procedures, and compares these to older methods like the NEDC. The text concludes with a discussion on the future of energy-efficient vehicles and the importance of accurate testing procedures.