Electric and Hybrid Vehicle TechnologiesVehicle Dynamics and Control SystemsControl Systems in Engineering

Zhenpeng Xue, Jiageng Ruan, Zexuan Han, Wanbo Yu, Baoping Xiong

2026.5.28PROCEEDINGS OF THE INSTITUTION OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERS PART D-JOURNAL OF AUTOMOBILE ENGINEERING

DOI: 10.1177/09544070261450061

Abstract

With the high-performance and high-efficiency demand in heavy-duty electric trucks (HDETs), the multi-motor, multi-speed electric distributed drive achieve great attention. However, frequent driving mode switching brings further requirements in smooth drivetrain torque delivering and driving comfort. To address these challenges, a power coordination control strategy for HDETs is proposed, with a particular focus on maintaining torque continuity between inter-axle during mode switching. First, a mode-gear shifting logic is developed based on energy efficiency optimization over the entire operating range. Then, an inter-axle torque coordination strategy between the middle and rear axles is designed to ensure smooth torque transfer during driving mode switching. Furthermore, a dual-loop control framework is established according to the control objectives at different stages, enabling coordinated motor torque and speed regulation during gear shifting between axles. The results demonstrate that the proposed coordinated control strategy effectively improves the riding comfort for HDETs during driving mode switching.

Citation format

XUE, Zhenpeng, et al. Coordinated shifting control strategy for heavy-duty electric trucks with multi-speed distributed drive powertrain. PROCEEDINGS OF THE INSTITUTION OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERS PART D-JOURNAL OF AUTOMOBILE ENGINEERING, 2026.