Excitement is built through images that illustrate the end product. But the road between these exciting images and a working vehicle is long and arduous. The process of engineering a working vehicle is filled with thousands of details that add up to a masterpiece of structure and motion. Here is a summary of the engineering steps included in CalMotors’ Method Q vehicle design methodology:
Requirements definitions
- Quantification of Required Capabilities
- Additional Feature Set
- Performance Calculations
- NHTSA – FMVSS Regulations
- Documentation and approval
Driveline Engineering
- Power Requirements to meet performance specifications
- Drive Cycle Simulation
- Final Performance Specification
- Final Vehicle Package definition
- Components Specification
- Engineered Components
- Engine/Electric Motor Integration
- Ergonomics
Chassis Engineering
- Main Frame
- Front Subframe
- Rear Subframe
- Body Mounting System
- Component Mounting System
Suspension Engineering
- Suspension Type Selection
- Kinematic Analysis
- Roll Center Analysis
- Force Analysis
- Anti-Squat/Anti-Dive Geometry
- Lateral load transfer
- Suspension Component Selection
Electronic Systems Engineering
- Vehicle Control Systems (Master System)
- Battery Integration (Hybrid systems)
- Wiring Diagram
- Wiring Harness
Braking
- Kinetic Calculations
- Brake Proportion and Adhesion
- Hydraulic Braking System
- Mechanical Braking System
- Regenerative Braking System
| 
