The Institute for

Advanced Automotive Propulsion Systems

Welcome from the Vice-ChancellorThe University of Bath’s first Vice-Chancellor defined technology as ‘the intersection of science with society’. Over the past 50 years our talented academic community has worked closely with industry and partners to conduct research with real-world impact, to address the challenges facing our society. The University’s reputation for delivering world-leading research into advanced automotive propulsion systems is second to none. For over 40 years, our close collaboration with some of the world’s leading companies has enabled us to conduct translational research helping manufacturers to lower vehicle emissions whilst not compromising engine performance. This new Institute for Advanced Automotive Propulsion Systems (IAAPS) provides the University of Bath with an exciting opportunity to not only continue and expand this important area of work, but to increase the momentum in developing future generations of zero emission vehicles. IAAPS will work hand in hand with industry to tackle future challenges, generate economic growth, bring jobs and investment to the regional and national economy, as well as acting as a centre of excellence for developing future engineers and leaders. On behalf of the University of Bath community, I am delighted to support this project.

Professor Ian White FREngVice-Chancellor University of Bath

University of Bath | IAAPS

The Institute for Advanced Automotive Propulsion Systems (IAAPS) is a new research and innovation initiative to support the delivery of future generations of clean and efficient vehicles as well as being a global leader in graduate automotive education.

This new facility will host a range of state-of-the-art experimental research platforms for precise systems level investigations including whole vehicle assessments, under real driving conditions. Based at the Bristol and Bath Science Park, IAAPS will be industry focused and build on 40 years of applied research into automotive propulsion systems at the University of Bath.

The facility offers deep insights into the complex nature of transitioning to future Ultra Low and Zero Emission Vehicles. This will include more and full electrification propulsion as well as unique layouts and configurations for use in fully autonomous vehicles.

Through its open access model, academics, automotive industry partners and small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) will be able to conduct transformational research with access to world-class research infrastructure and people. This will promote greater collaboration and the sharing of expertise to advance knowledge.

In 2013 the £1 billion Advanced Propulsion Centre (APC) was created to deliver the ‘Propulsion Nation’. This signalled the Government’s intention to drive investment in UK automotive propulsion. IAAPS supports the APC in its operation and vision as well as promoting its global reputation in quality research and education.

Professor Gary HawleyDean and Medlock Chair of Engineering, University of Bath

40 years in the making

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For 40 years we’ve worked in pursuit of cleaner, smarter engines, powertrains and driver technologies.

We work with industry, inventors, researchers and academics to deliver rapid R&D that will accelerate the transition from low carbon to zero carbon vehicles. In a world that needs quick answers to the dual problems of poor air quality and transport gridlock, we will connect, collaborate and act as a catalyst to the automotive and mobility sectors.

Building on the excellent track record of our propulsion system research, we focus on addressing key issues faced by the automotive sector. We will continue to align our research and innovation with industry to support them on the Road to Zero.

IAAPS research team is working on automotive propulsion system research into the development of ultra-low and zero emission vehicles.

Through the use of precise experimentation and accurate simulation of real-world driving conditions, the team deliver experimental research underpinned by scientific enquiry, enabling advancements in computational predictive capabilities, validated by data that is realistic and precise.

The work of our experienced and talented academic team is experimentally intensive, analytically demanding and highly collaborative. Coupled with a reputation for focused delivery, our academic team are committed to collaborating on high quality research that has impact.

Our main research themes:

• ElectrifiedTechnologies• Future Fuels & Energy Conversion• Control, Calibration & Optimisation• Simulation&Modelling• RealWorldDriving&DriverBehaviour• EnergyStorage&BatteryManagement• PropulsionSystemEfficiency

Our Automotive Propulsion Expertise

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Case Study - Low-carbon hybrid engine

Working with Ashwoods Automotive, our researchers developed a low-carbon diesel hybrid propulsion system ready for mass production. Funded by the EPRSC, the joint project team combined our expertise in powertrain systems and carbon dioxide reduction with Ashwood’s expertise in hybrid product and design.

We helped Ashwoods build a control strategy offering a good cost/benefit ratio by taking their system and getting the most out of it in a real-world situation. The team also developed a driver training device that assesses how aggressive a driver is and gives feedback to improve fuel efficiency.

The result is that Ashwoods were able to sell a hybrid system suitable for the mass-market. The system provides lower- carbon dioxide emissions, reduced production costs and increased fuel economy. The newly developed motor had the best cost-to-performance ratio of any competing product on the market at the time.

Also, the driver training device has helped reduce fuel consumption in fleet trials and is now sold to some of the largest fleets in the country.

Case Study – Precision CO2 Measurement

The University worked with Ford to develop commercially affordable procedures, techniques and tools to improve the precision of carbon dioxide measurement. Our aim was to embed the results into the company’s vehicle emissions laboratory at Dunton.

We carried out activities to measure and control sources of variability within a complex test environment. These included vehicles effects, test equipment setup and driver interactions.

We discovered that speed and acceleration are not the only factors in accurately evaluating fuel consumption. The position and movement of the accelerator pedal, as well as the accuracy of the vehicle’s alignment with the test rig both have impact.

Our research helped Ford more accurately assess the effects on emissions of any potential vehicle enhancements. They were able to reduce carbon emissions and fuel consumption in their product range. They now use our methods in their laboratories and have doubled the level of precision in measuring CO2 emissions in vehicles.

“What quickly became apparent [...] was the extent of the resources the University of Bath had. Not only do they have extreme depth and breadth of expertise and capabilities, but also access to tools and machinery that many other businesses don’t have.”

Mark RobertsAshwoods Automotive Limited

“The project has accelerated the improvements to reduce variability in test measurements of fuel consumption and emissions. As consumption and emissions fall, benefits become increasingly difficult to measure, which is why this project has been so useful.”

Dr Phil PriceTechnical Specialist, vehicle evaluation and verification, Ford Europe

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“The strong capability of the University of Bath team, provides a strong foundation upon which the research facility will drive innovation in the automotive sector in the UK in the coming years.”

Nigel Stein, Chairman of the Automotive Council

Expanding our FacilitiesIAAPS will be truly unique, both by its structure and operation. The facility will contain new technically-advanced capabilities which will support cutting edge innovation in the field of powertrain technology from complete vehicle projects through powertrain subsystems to individual components. Our approach is to blend a deep understanding of the components’ behaviour through modelling partnered with physical evaluation to develop innovative systems which perform efficiently in the real world. Once fully operational we will have 17 Research and Innovation Cells.

Thesewillinclude:

Stateoftheart3Eand5Epowertraindynamometerscapable of re-creating highly dynamic, real world events in a laboratory environment to analyse transmission, battery, E-machine and IC engine systems. These cells are equipped to 750kW with up to 500kW of battery emulation together with full emissions and electrical power analysis capability. Our electric motor capability offers speeds of up to 30,000 rpm with configurable bi-directional battery emulation up to 500kW per cell at a maximum of 1100 volts and full transient electrical power measurement. This means that IAAPS can work with electric motors, hybrid architectures, batteries, inverters or fuel cells in support of increasing legislative and consumer demand for ultra-low and zero emissions technology.

Climaticcontrolrollingroadsto evaluate and optimise complete vehicle performance in real world driving conditions. Our 250kW climatic control four wheel drive rolling roads will evaluate and optimise complete vehicle emissions, efficiency and performance in real world driving conditions and will deliver environmental capabilities from -10°C to +40°C. Our chassis dynamometers are equipped with robot drivers which ensure maximum repeatability as well as a full suite of highly capable conventional and FTIR emissions analysers.

Hotgasstandsfor studying advanced turbomachinery concepts and waste heat recovery systems. By driving the turbine with heated compressed air, the cell can undertake turbomachinery research at temperatures of up to 750°C and flow rates of up to 150kg per hour.

Our facility includes the capability to induce engine flow pulse simulation and the ability to test twin entry systems with unequal intake conditions. The gas stands are designed to be highly flexible with the base capability to cover a wide range of industry’s needs.

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Our commitment to automotive engineering educationEducation and high-value engineering skills are core concepts in IAAPS. Our automotive engineering courses at the University of Bath aim to develop graduates with the skills required to be leaders in the automotive industry.

Theseincludeour:

• integratedPhD• one year full-time MSc• undergraduateMEngdegrees

Centre for Doctoral Training in Advanced Automotive Propulsion Systems

Our Centre will produce graduates who combine technical disciplines with practical skills to lead the transition to more sustainable propulsion systems. The four-year degree is built on our cross-disciplinary approach to learning and teaching, and integrates a one-year MRes with a three-year PhD. It draws on the proficiency of 50 academics ready to supervise in a range of specialisms. This gives students the opportunity to develop expertise in one area of automotive propulsion while also having a broad propulsion systems knowledge. They will also have the chance to benefit from the transformational research taking place in IAAPS.Spiral learning, teamwork and mentoring are all central to our students’ PhD training, as is industry involvement through guest lectures and placements. Our students will have the opportunity to work with global industry partners, allowing them to align their skills development with industrial needs.

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MSc Automotive Engineering

Our MSc is for engineers who want to develop their knowledge further and specialise in automotive engineering and technologies. Exploring research and development in this sector, this course focuses on the design, performance and operation of automotive powertrains and vehicle systems. Students build on their existing engineering skills and apply them to the challenges of the automotive industry.

Students explore in-depth developments in low-carbon and sustainable powertrain and propulsion systems and the future technologies of vehicles. Industry needs innovative engineers who can create the next generation of vehicles, and this course is geared specifically towards equipping students with those skills.

Covering everything from downsizing internal combustion engines and turbo-charging small engines, to alternative fuels, hybrid vehicles and electric vehicles, our course draws on the specialist automotive research in our Department of Mechanical Engineering.

Our students learn from academics with expertise in automotive engineering and low-carbon technologies. Their industrial collaborations and research activity feed into the teaching and learning experience.

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“IAAPS will build on the strengths of the University of Bath’s competence in propulsion development to bring real-world examples and real-word environments into the laboratory, a massive step forward in innovating in propulsion systems.”

Graham Hoare, Director of Global Vehicle Evaluation and Verification, Ford Motor Company

University of Bath | IAAPS

Undergraduate Mechanical Engineering courses

Our Mechanical with Automotive Engineering course combines advanced engineering knowledge with the opportunity to develop practical and transferable skills through project work, crucial to ensuring a pipeline of inspired, skilled and knowledgeable engineers into global automotive industries.

Our course offers an optional year-long placement with industry both in the UK and overseas. Industry placements offer students the chance to hone their technical and practical skills in the workplace.

Students have the opportunity to get involved in a range of student competition teams, including Team Bath Racing, Team Bath Racing Electric, Team Bath Drones and Bath Zero.

These competitions challenge our students to build upon what they have learnt from their academic studies and apply it to real-life engineering situations.

This close alliance between the taught curriculum and real world application provides a rich environment for our students to develop their skills to get ahead in global automotive industries.

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Professor Gary HawleyAcademic and Technical Lead

Professor Steve EganFinance and Business Lead

The IAAPS Team

GavinEdwardsProgramme Director

Our valuesOur values underpin how we operate, and how we attract, develop and retain the best talent.

Trusted and credible. An Influencer. Globally recognised for our expertise and industry-focused R&I; we attract and invest in the brightest minds to solve the greatest challenges within automotive propulsion.

Collaborative. We work inclusively to bring together the best minds to solve challenges. Our partnerships go beyond the transactional. We work flexibly with our partners to co-create solutions and insight.

Curious. Intellectually rigorous and investigative; we step back from problems to explore challenges and deliver quality insights to our partners.

Thorough and committed to quality delivery. We value and invest in the people, systems and processes needed to deliver for our partners.

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The IAAPS Team

University of Bath | IAAPS

Funded by the West of England Local Enterprise Partnership through the Local Growth Fund, administered by the

West of England Combined Authority.

Funded by the UK Research Partnership Investment Fund.

Contact us To find out more or to enquire about

partnering with the University of Bath on IAAPS, please contact:

iaaps@bath.ac.uk

+44 (0)1225 383538

www.bath.ac.uk/iaaps