Comprehensive MATLAB/Simulink Modeling and Stage‐Wise Performance Analysis of a Hybrid Battery–Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle Powertrain
Abstract
Fuel cell–based hybrid electric vehicles (FCEVs) represent a promising pathway toward sustainable transportation due to their high efficiency and negligible emission profile. Accurate simulation frameworks are essential to understand system dynamics, optimize power management, and enhance overall performance. This study presents a comprehensive MATLAB/Simulink‐based simulation model of a hybrid battery–fuel cell powertrain for FCEVs. The proposed architecture integrates a fuel cell stack, battery unit, DC–DC converters, and an electric motor, with system parameters defined through dedicated script files to enable flexible modeling and performance evaluation. The model systematically estimates key operational parameters across multiple stages, including current, voltage, power output (kW), efficiency (%), duty cycle (%), battery state‐of‐charge, motor torque, and rotational speed. Additionally, excessive water flow rate from the fuel cell stack is quantified to assess system stability. The integrated configuration enables stage‐wise analysis. The developed system achieves a peak motor output of 0.78 kW and 1500 rpm under defined operating conditions. Although simulation time and parametric assumptions remain limitations, the framework provides a robust platform for real‐time design evaluation and optimization. Future work will incorporate intelligent power management strategies to further improve energy utilization, operational adaptability, and driving range in hybrid electric vehicle applications.