Hyundai Motor Group is working on a system that optimises the performance of a light duty commercial electric vehicle by estimating the gross vehicle weight.

The system utilises acceleration sensors to optimise the vehicle’s settings based on current gross weight estimate. 

Calculating the gross weight of a vehicle on the move means that an electric vehicle’s torque output can be optimised to maximise estimated remaining range. This reduces potential wheel spin and reduced traction when a vehicle is carrying less payload, increasing commercial efficiency. 

The new technology also allows for changes in torque output based on topography, altering the amount of torque needed to propel a vehicle uphill based on its gross weight and allowing small business owners to effectively reduce unnecessary journeys.

To make it cost effective, Hyundai Motor Group developed the gross weight estimation technology by using acceleration sensors instead of weight sensors; developing the technology in this manner means that it can be applied to a vehicle not equipped with a costly air suspension system.

When the vehicle is carrying a heavy load, the vehicle automatically informs the driver of the estimated drive range to secure sufficient battery life to reach the destination safely.