Using Rapid Prototyping tools for the integration of control systems for complex technology concept vehicles

The construction of a robust technology demonstrator vehicle for evaluation by senior management is a vital tool in the process of bringing new technologies to the market place. The vehicle must be a fully functional test bench, able to highlight the advantages of the new technology, while at the same time indicating the areas requiring further development Prodrive has been involved for many years in the construction of advanced engineering concept vehicles, both for vehicle manufacturers and to demonstrate its own chassis and powertrain technologies. This paper looks at the proven methods developed by Prodrive to enable development of a running prototype vehicle and makes particular reference to the technologies used to bring a hybrid vehicle from specification to road in six months. The key to this rapid timescale was the development of the control system and the overall process control.