The REFLECTIVE project generated significant research results towards its technical objectives:
Powertrain development: The REFLECTIVE Light Electric Vehicle (R-LEV) powertrain was developed, integrated into the vehicle, and subsequently tested within the vehicle. An induction traction motor was developed during the project. The Vehicle Control Unit (VCU) hardware was procured off-the-shelf, while its control algorithm was fully developed in-house. The powertrain components are designed to support scalability from L7e to M1 category vehicles and can be modified to meet higher power requirements. The powertrain achieved a maximum energy efficiency of 88%, with an expanded high energy efficiency operational regime.
Structural safety and flexibility: Through intensive design and structural optimisation activities, significant improvements in safety and flexibility were achieved. The R-LEV underwent crash testing and attained a performance equivalent to a Euro NCAP four-star rating according to the L7e testing protocol. The vehicle’s interior design supports various urban use cases, featuring removable rear seats to accommodate both passenger and cargo-focused operations. This flexibility enhances the vehicle’s utilisation possibilities.
Automated features and charging: REFLECTIVE promotes the flexibility of electric vehicle usage by offering both conventional conductive and wireless charging options. Both charging systems were tested and successfully integrated into the R-LEV. Additionally, an Automated Driving System (ADS) was developed, tested, and integrated, enabling the vehicle to automatically relocate to the wireless charger ground unit and start the charging.
Validation and testing: All solutions were rigorously validated through both laboratory and real-life experiments. These tests demonstrated the functionality and energy efficiency of the powertrains, ADS features, user-friendly conductive and wireless charging systems, and crash safety performance equivalent to Euro NCAP 4-5 stars. During real-life testing in Finland, the average energy consumption was measured at 116 Wh/km, while the energy consumption charged from the grid was recorded at 135 Wh/km.
Dissemination and exploitation: The REFLECTIVE research results were disseminated through publications in scientific journals, conference proceedings, and sector magazines. The project actively participated/organised in international events and workshops focused on sustainable mobility and launched a final Video News Release. A final event, open to all interested parties, was organised in October 2024, showcasing the vehicle prototype. Options for exploiting the results were explored, including an analysis of the Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) generated by the project partners.
In conclusion, the REFLECTIVE project generated various results that present a highly advanced electric heavy quadricycle. The technical and other objectives of the project were largely met.
