WO2013088553A1

WO2013088553A1 - Automobile

Info

Publication number: WO2013088553A1
Application number: PCT/JP2011/079054
Authority: WO
Inventors: 佐藤　啓太
Original assignee: トヨタ自動車株式会社
Priority date: 2011-12-15
Filing date: 2011-12-15
Publication date: 2013-06-20

Abstract

By operating one of two paddle switches mounted at opposed positions to the left and right of a steering wheel, three or more (four in an embodiment) travel modes including a normal mode and with different power output characteristics are switched in a predetermined sequence in one direction. By operating the other of the two paddle switches, the travel modes are switched in a sequence opposite to the predetermined sequence and in another direction. Thus, the number of switches for indicating the travel modes can be decreased, and the travel modes can be switched without removing hands off the steering wheel during travel, so that the operability in switching the travel modes can be improved.

Description

Car

The present invention relates to an automobile, and more particularly, to an automobile provided with a motor for traveling and a battery capable of supplying electric power to the motor.

Conventionally, in an automobile equipped with an engine and an automatic transmission, the operation of a paddle switch provided in the vicinity of the steering wheel is used to switch from the automatic transmission mode to the manual transmission mode or change the automatic transmission gear position, and in the vicinity of the shift lever. There has been proposed one that switches between a normal mode (normal driving pattern) and a sports mode (sport driving pattern) by operating a mode switching switch provided in the (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

JP 2009-243594 A

In vehicles such as electric vehicles and hybrid vehicles equipped with a motor and a battery for traveling, for example, an EV switch for electric traveling mode, an eco switch for eco mode that prioritizes fuel consumption, and a power mode that prioritizes output of driving force Some switches, such as a power switch for switching the driving mode, are provided in the instrument panel in front of the driver's seat. In this case, there is room for improving the operability when switching the driving mode. For example, in each driving mode, the vehicle is controlled automatically, so the driver should operate the switch for switching the driving mode in order to change the power performance of the vehicle or the state of charge of the battery to the desired performance or state. However, there are cases where the operation cannot be easily performed during driving.

The main object of the automobile of the present invention is to improve the operability when switching the driving mode.

The automobile of the present invention has taken the following means in order to achieve the above-mentioned main purpose.

The automobile of the present invention
An automobile comprising a motor for traveling and a battery capable of supplying electric power to the motor,
Two paddle switches provided at opposite positions on the left and right of the steering wheel;
By operating one of the two paddle switches, the traveling mode is switched in one direction in a predetermined order between three or more traveling modes having different power output characteristics including the normal mode, and the other of the two paddle switches Mode switching means for switching the traveling mode to the other direction in the order opposite to the predetermined order between the three or more traveling modes by the operation of
It is a summary to provide.

In this automobile of the present invention, the driving mode is set between three or more driving modes having different power output characteristics including the normal mode by operating one of the two paddle switches provided at the left and right opposing positions of the steering wheel. The driving mode is switched in one direction in a predetermined order, and the driving mode is switched in the other direction in the order opposite to the predetermined order among three or more driving modes by the other operation of the two paddle switches. Thereby, the operativity at the time of switching driving modes can be improved. Here, the “power output characteristic” is at least one of the output characteristic of the power from the engine, the input / output characteristic of the power from the motor, the input / output characteristic of the electric power from the battery, and the output characteristic of the driving force of the vehicle. be able to. Further, the “position” where the two paddle switches are provided may be a position where the driver can operate with the fingers of the hand when the driver holds the steering wheel.

The automobile according to the present invention includes an engine capable of outputting driving power, and the driving mode is an electric motor that makes it easier to continue the electric driving using only the power input / output from the motor than the normal mode. Including a driving priority mode, at least one of an eco mode in which driving power output is suppressed from the normal mode and fuel efficiency is prioritized, and a power mode in which driving power output is prioritized over the normal mode. it can. By doing so, it is possible to reduce the switches that instruct the electric travel priority mode, the switches that instruct the eco mode, the switches that instruct the power mode, and the like. In this case, the electric travel priority mode is a mode in which the electric travel is prioritized among the hybrid travel that travels using the power output from the engine and the power input / output from the motor and the electric travel. It can also be.

In the vehicle of the present invention in which the driving mode includes an electric driving priority mode, the predetermined order is the electric driving priority mode, the eco mode, the normal mode, the power mode, or the electric driving priority. The order of the mode, the eco mode, and the normal mode may be any of the order of the electric travel priority mode, the normal mode, and the power mode.

Further, in the automobile of the present invention, the predetermined order may be an order corresponding to the degree to which the output of driving force is suppressed. Here, “the degree to which the output of the driving force is suppressed” is the adjustment of the relationship of the accelerator opening for control with respect to the accelerator opening, the adjustment of the maximum value of the required driving force, the relationship between the rotational speed at which the engine should be operated and torque Adjustment of the operating line that defines the motor, adjustment of the rate of change of torque from the motor, adjustment of the starting threshold for the required power of the engine to start the engine, adjustment of the degree of engine braking, adjustment of the degree of creep torque, battery It should be adjusted to at least one of the adjustment of the battery storage ratio center for setting the required charge / discharge power, adjustment of the maximum voltage applied to the motor, and adjustment of the required power of the engine. You can also.

Furthermore, in the automobile of the present invention, the predetermined order is an order according to a battery output distribution degree that reflects a ratio of a discharge power amount from the battery to a total amount of traveling power when traveling is continued. It can also be. In this case, the mode switching means is means for switching to the travel mode in which the degree of battery output distribution is smaller as the power storage ratio, which is the ratio of the power storage amount to the battery capacity, is lower regardless of the operation of the two paddle switches. There can be. If it carries out like this, driving | running | working mode can be switched automatically so that it may suppress that the electrical storage ratio of a battery exceeds a suitable range, and becomes small or becomes large.

Alternatively, the automobile of the present invention includes an engine capable of outputting power for traveling, a generator capable of exchanging power with the battery and capable of inputting and outputting power, a drive shaft connected to an axle, and the engine. A planetary gear in which three rotating elements are connected to three axes of an output shaft and a rotating shaft of the generator may be provided, and the rotating shaft of the motor may be connected to the driving shaft.

1 is a configuration diagram showing an outline of a configuration of a hybrid vehicle 20 as an embodiment of the present invention. 3 is a configuration diagram showing an example of a configuration of a paddle switch 89 provided in the vicinity of a steering wheel 90. FIG. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the combination of several driving modes, and an example of the combination of several control items in each driving mode. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the map for control accelerator opening setting. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the map for request | requirement torque setting. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of a fuel consumption optimal operation line and an example of a torque priority operation line, and an example of a mode which sets the target rotational speed Ne * of the engine 22, and the target torque Te *. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the relationship between driving | running | working mode and motive power output characteristics (a driving force output suppression grade). It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the relationship between driving modes and motive power output characteristics (about battery output distribution). 5 is a flowchart showing an example of a travel mode switching routine executed by an HVECU 70. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the map for an upper / lower limit mode number setting. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the relationship between the travel mode of a modification, and power output characteristics (driving force output suppression grade). It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the relationship between the travel mode of a modification, and power output characteristics (driving force output suppression grade). It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the relationship between the driving mode of a modification, and power output characteristics (about battery output distribution). It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the relationship between the driving mode of a modification, and motive power output characteristics (battery charging / discharging characteristic). It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the combination of the control item in each driving mode of a modification. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the combination of the control item in each driving mode of a modification. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of a mode that the driving mode of a modification is switched in a rotary format. FIG. 11 is a configuration diagram showing an outline of a configuration of a hybrid vehicle 120 according to a modification. FIG. 11 is a configuration diagram showing an outline of a configuration of a hybrid vehicle 220 of a modified example. FIG. 11 is a configuration diagram showing an outline of a configuration of a hybrid vehicle 320 of a modified example. FIG. 11 is a configuration diagram showing an outline of a configuration of a hybrid vehicle 420 according to a modification. It is a block diagram which shows the outline of a structure of the electric vehicle 520 of a modification.

Next, a mode for carrying out the present invention will be described using examples.

FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram showing an outline of the configuration of a hybrid vehicle 20 as an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in the figure, the hybrid vehicle 20 of the embodiment includes an engine 22 that uses gasoline or light oil as fuel, an engine electronic control unit (hereinafter referred to as engine ECU) 24 that controls the drive of the engine 22, and a crank of the engine 22. A planetary gear 30 having a carrier connected to the shaft 26 and a ring gear connected to a drive shaft 36 connected to drive

wheels

38a and 38b via a differential gear 37, and a rotor configured as a synchronous generator motor, for example. A motor MG1 connected to the sun gear, a motor MG2 configured as a synchronous generator motor and having a rotor connected to the drive shaft 36,

inverters

41 and 42 for driving the motors MG1 and MG2, and lithium ions, for example Battery 50 configured as a secondary battery The drive voltage system is connected to the power line to which the

inverters

41 and 42 are connected (hereinafter referred to as the drive voltage system power line 54a) and the power line to which the battery 50 is connected (hereinafter referred to as the battery voltage system power line 54b). Motor MG1 and MG2 are controlled by adjusting voltage VH of power line 54a and controlling

inverters

41 and 42, and boost converter 55 that exchanges power between drive voltage system power line 54a and battery voltage system power line 54b. A motor electronic control unit (hereinafter referred to as motor ECU) 40 for controlling the boost converter 55, a battery electronic control unit (hereinafter referred to as battery ECU) 52 for managing the battery 50, and the entire vehicle. The hybrid electronic control unit (hereinafter referred to as HVECU) It includes a 70, a.

Although not shown, the engine ECU 24 is configured as a microprocessor centered on a CPU, and includes a ROM for storing a processing program, a RAM for temporarily storing data, an input / output port, and a communication port in addition to the CPU. . The engine ECU 24 receives signals from various sensors that detect the operating state of the engine 22, for example, a water temperature sensor that detects the crank position θcr from the crank position sensor that detects the rotational position of the crankshaft 26 and the coolant temperature of the engine 22. From the cam position sensor for detecting the cooling water temperature Tw from the cylinder, the in-cylinder pressure Pin from the pressure sensor installed in the combustion chamber, the rotational position of the intake valve for intake and exhaust to the combustion chamber and the camshaft for opening and closing the exhaust valve Position θca, throttle position SP from a throttle valve position sensor for detecting the position of the throttle valve, intake air amount Qa from an air flow meter attached to the intake pipe, intake air temperature Ta from a temperature sensor also attached to the intake pipe, Installed in the exhaust system The air-fuel ratio AF from the air-fuel ratio sensor and the oxygen signal O2 from the oxygen sensor attached to the exhaust system are input via the input port, and the engine ECU 24 is for driving the engine 22. Various control signals, such as the drive signal to the fuel injection valve, the drive signal to the throttle motor that adjusts the throttle valve position, the control signal to the ignition coil integrated with the igniter, and the opening / closing timing of the intake valve can be changed A control signal to the variable valve timing mechanism is output via the output port. The engine ECU 24 is in communication with the HVECU 70, controls the operation of the engine 22 by a control signal from the HVECU 70, and outputs data related to the operation state of the engine 22 to the HVECU 70 as necessary. The engine ECU 24 also calculates the rotational speed of the crankshaft 26, that is, the rotational speed Ne of the engine 22 based on a signal from a crank position sensor (not shown) attached to the crankshaft 26.

Although not shown, the motor ECU 40 is configured as a microprocessor centered on a CPU, and includes a ROM for storing a processing program, a RAM for temporarily storing data, an input / output port, and a communication port in addition to the CPU. . The motor ECU 40 receives signals necessary for driving and controlling the motors MG1 and MG2, for example, rotational positions θm1 and θm2 from rotational

position detection sensors

43 and 44 that detect the rotational positions of the rotors of the motors MG1 and MG2, and not shown. A phase current applied to the motors MG1 and MG2 detected by the current sensor is input via the input port, and the motor ECU 40 receives a switching control signal to a switching element (not shown) of the

inverters

41 and 42 and a boost converter. A switching control signal 55 to a switching element (not shown) 55 is output through an output port. The motor ECU 40 is in communication with the HVECU 70, controls the driving of the motors MG1 and MG2 by a control signal from the HVECU 70, and outputs data related to the operating state of the motors MG1 and MG2 to the HVECU 70 as necessary. The motor ECU 40 calculates the rotational angular velocities ωm1, ωm2 and the rotational speeds Nm1, Nm2 of the motors MG1, MG2 based on the rotational positions θm1, θm2 of the rotors of the motors MG1, MG2 from the rotational

position detection sensors

43, 44. It is.

Although not shown, the battery ECU 52 is configured as a microprocessor centered on a CPU, and includes a ROM for storing a processing program, a RAM for temporarily storing data, an input / output port, and a communication port in addition to the CPU. . The battery ECU 52 receives signals necessary for managing the battery 50, for example, an inter-terminal voltage Vb from a voltage sensor (not shown) installed between the terminals of the battery 50 and a power line connected to the output terminal of the battery 50. The charging / discharging current Ib from the attached current sensor (not shown), the battery temperature Tb from the temperature sensor (not shown) attached to the battery 50, and the like are input. Send to. Further, the battery ECU 52 is based on the integrated value of the charge / discharge current Ib detected by the current sensor in order to manage the battery 50, and the power storage ratio that is the ratio of the capacity of power that can be discharged from the battery 50 at that time to the total capacity The SOC is calculated, and the input / output limits Win and Wout, which are the maximum allowable power that may charge / discharge the battery 50, are calculated based on the calculated storage ratio SOC and the battery temperature Tb. The input / output limits Win and Wout of the battery 50 are set to the basic values of the input / output limits Win and Wout based on the battery temperature Tb, and the output limiting correction coefficient and the input limiting limit are set based on the storage ratio SOC of the battery 50. It can be set by setting a correction coefficient and multiplying the basic value of the set input / output limits Win and Wout by the correction coefficient.

Although not shown, the HVECU 70 is configured as a microprocessor centered on a CPU, and includes a ROM for storing processing programs, a RAM for temporarily storing data, an input / output port, and a communication port in addition to the CPU. The HVECU 70 includes an ignition signal from the ignition switch 80, a shift position SP from the shift position sensor 82 that detects the operation position of the shift lever 81, and an accelerator opening degree from the accelerator pedal position sensor 84 that detects the amount of depression of the accelerator pedal 83. Acc, the brake pedal position BP from the brake pedal position sensor 86 that detects the amount of depression of the brake pedal 85, the vehicle speed V from the vehicle speed sensor 88, and the steering wheel (handle) 90 on the left and right sides to switch the vehicle running mode. A signal or the like is input from each of two

paddle switches

89a and 89b (see FIG. 2) provided at predetermined positions via an input port. In the embodiment, the paddle switch 89a is a switch that is disposed on the right side of the steering wheel 90 when viewed from the driver and outputs an upshift signal Mup when operated on the near side, and the paddle switch 89b is on the left side when viewed from the driver. And a switch that outputs a downshift signal Mdwn when operated on the front side of the steering wheel 90. In addition, in the embodiment, the predetermined position where the paddle switches 89a and 89b are provided is a position where the driver can operate with the fingers of the hand when the steering wheel 90 is gripped. The position was on the back side of the grip part. The paddle switches 89a and 89b may rotate integrally with the steering wheel 90, or may be fixed to a steering column (not shown) without rotating integrally with the steering wheel 90. Further, as described above, the HVECU 70 is connected to the engine ECU 24, the motor ECU 40, and the battery ECU 52 via the communication port, and exchanges various control signals and data with the engine ECU 24, the motor ECU 40, and the battery ECU 52.

In the hybrid vehicle 20 of the embodiment thus configured, the required torque Tr * to be output to the drive shaft 36 is calculated based on the accelerator opening Acc and the vehicle speed V corresponding to the depression amount of the accelerator pedal by the driver. The operation of the engine 22, the motor MG1, and the motor MG2 is controlled so that the required power corresponding to the required torque Tr * is output to the drive shaft 36. As the operation control of the engine 22, the motor MG1, and the motor MG2, the operation of the engine 22 is controlled so that the power corresponding to the required power is output from the engine 22, and all the power output from the engine 22 is transmitted to the planetary gear 30 and the motor. The torque conversion operation mode in which the motor MG1 and the motor MG2 are driven and controlled so that the torque is converted by the MG1 and the motor MG2 and output to the drive shaft 36, and the sum of the required power and the power required for charging and discharging the battery 50 is met. Operation of the engine 22 is controlled so that power is output from the engine 22, and all or part of the power output from the engine 22 with charge / discharge of the battery 50 is torque generated by the planetary gear 30, the motor MG1, and the motor MG2. The required power is output to the drive shaft 36 with conversion. Charge-discharge drive mode for driving and controlling the motors MG1 and MG2, there is a motor operation mode in which operation control to output a power commensurate to stop the operation of the engine 22 to the required power from the motor MG2 to the drive shaft 36. The torque conversion operation mode and the charge / discharge operation mode are modes in which the engine 22, the motor MG1, and the motor MG2 are controlled so that the required power is output to the drive shaft 36 with the operation of the engine 22. Since there is no substantial difference in control, both are hereinafter referred to as the engine operation mode.

In the engine operation mode, the HVECU 70 is requested torque to be output to the drive shaft 36 based on the control accelerator opening Acc * corresponding to the accelerator opening Acc from the accelerator pedal position sensor 84 and the vehicle speed V from the vehicle speed sensor 88. Tr * is set, and the required torque Tr * thus set is multiplied by the rotation speed Nr of the drive shaft 36 (for example, the rotation speed obtained by multiplying the rotation speed Nm2 of the motor MG2 and the vehicle speed V by a conversion factor). The charging / discharging request power Pb * of the battery 50 obtained from the calculated traveling power Pdrv * based on the storage ratio SOC of the battery 50 (a positive value when discharging from the battery 50) Is set to the required power Pe * as the power to be output from the engine 22. Then, the target rotational speed Ne of the engine 22 is obtained using an operation line (for example, a fuel efficiency optimal operation line) as a relationship between the rotational speed Ne of the engine 22 and the torque Te that can efficiently output the required power Pe * from the engine 22. * And the target torque Te * are set, and the motor is controlled by the rotational speed feedback control so that the rotational speed Ne of the engine 22 becomes the target rotational speed Ne * within the range of the input / output limits Win and Wout of the battery 50. A torque command Tm1 * as a torque to be output from MG1 is set, and when the motor MG1 is driven by the torque command Tm1 *, the torque acting on the drive shaft 36 via the planetary gear 30 is subtracted from the required torque Tr * to reduce the motor MG2. Torque command Tm2 * is set, and the target rotational speed Ne * and target torque Te * are set. In its sent to the engine ECU 24, the torque command Tm1 *, the Tm2 * is sent to the motor ECU 40. The engine ECU 24 that has received the target rotational speed Ne * and the target torque Te *, controls the intake air amount, fuel injection control, and ignition of the engine 22 so that the engine 22 is operated by the target rotational speed Ne * and the target torque Te *. The motor ECU 40 that performs control or the like and receives the torque commands Tm1 * and Tm2 * performs switching control of the switching elements of the

inverters

41 and 42 so that the motors MG1 and MG2 are driven by the torque commands Tm1 * and Tm2 *. By such control, it is possible to travel while outputting the required torque Tr * to the drive shaft 36 within the range of the input / output limits Win and Wout of the battery 50 while operating the engine 22 efficiently. In this engine operation mode, when the required power Pe * of the engine 22 is equal to or lower than the stop threshold value determined as the upper limit of the range of the required power Pe * that is better to stop the operation of the engine 22, the stop condition of the engine 22 is When it is established, the operation of the engine 22 is stopped and the motor operation mode is shifted to.

In the motor operation mode, the HVECU 70 sets a required torque Tr * to be output to the drive shaft 36 based on the control accelerator opening Acc * corresponding to the accelerator opening Acc and the vehicle speed V, and a torque command Tm1 for the motor MG1. A value 0 is set for * and a torque command Tm2 * of the motor MG2 is set and transmitted to the motor ECU 40 so that the required torque Tr * is output to the drive shaft 36 within the range of the input / output limits Win and Wout of the battery 50. . Then, the motor ECU 40 that receives the torque commands Tm1 * and Tm2 * performs switching control of the switching elements of the

inverters

41 and 42 so that the motors MG1 and MG2 are driven by the torque commands Tm1 * and Tm2 *. With such control, the engine 22 can travel by outputting the required torque Tr * to the drive shaft 36 within the range of the input / output limits Win and Wout of the battery 50 with the engine 22 stopped. In this motor operation mode, the required power Pe * of the engine 22 obtained by subtracting the charge / discharge required power Pb * of the battery 50 from the traveling power Pdrv * obtained by multiplying the required torque Tr * by the rotational speed Nr of the drive shaft 36. When the engine 22 has a start condition such as when the engine 22 has reached a start threshold that is set to a value slightly larger than the stop threshold as the lower limit of the range of the required power Pe * that is better to start the

engine

22, 22 is started to shift to the engine operation mode.

Next, the vehicle travel mode will be described. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a combination of a plurality of travel modes and an example of a combination of a plurality of control items in each travel mode. The vehicle running mode is adjusted by adjusting each control item according to the mode, so that power output characteristics from the engine 22, power input / output characteristics from the motors MG1 and MG2, power input / output characteristics from the battery 50, A plurality of predetermined values are set in advance so that at least one of the output characteristics of the driving force of the vehicle is different (so that the power output characteristics (power performance) are different). As shown in the figure, the vehicle driving mode of the embodiment includes a normal mode that is basically used when no instruction is given to change the driving mode by operating

paddle switches

89a and 89b, and the engine operation mode and motor described above. Priority is given to driving in the motor driving mode (electric driving) over driving in the engine driving mode (hybrid driving) and driving in the motor driving mode is easier to continue than in normal mode (required driving by the driver) The four driving modes, EV mode, eco mode that gives priority to fuel consumption by suppressing the output of the driving force of the vehicle over the normal mode, and power mode that gives priority to the output of the driving force of the vehicle over the normal mode It was prepared in advance. The control items adjusted according to the travel mode of the embodiment include the relationship of the accelerator opening Acc * for control with respect to the accelerator opening Acc from the accelerator pedal position sensor 84, the accelerator opening Acc * for control, and the vehicle speed. The maximum value of the required torque Tr * based on V, the operation line that defines the relationship between the rotational speed at which the engine 22 should be operated and the torque, the rate of change in torque from the motors MG1, MG2, and the engine 22 are started. And a starting threshold value for the required power Pe *.

The relationship between the accelerator opening Acc * for control and the accelerator opening Acc of the embodiment is shown in FIG. 3 and the map for setting the accelerator opening for control in FIG. The control accelerator opening Acc * is determined so as to increase linearly, and in the power mode, a larger control accelerator opening Acc * is obtained for the same accelerator opening Acc than in the normal mode. In the eco mode, the maximum value of the control accelerator opening Acc * is determined to be slightly smaller than that in the normal mode. In the EV mode, the control accelerator is opened in a predetermined intermediate region of the accelerator opening Acc. By providing a dead zone in which the degree Acc * is constant, the accelerator opening A for control below the accelerator opening Acc * for eco mode is provided. It was assumed that c * is defined so as to obtain. In the embodiment, as shown in the required torque setting map of FIG. 5, the required torque Tr * to be output to the drive shaft 36 is set based on the control accelerator opening Acc * and the vehicle speed V. In normal mode and power mode, the maximum accelerator opening Acc * is obtained for the maximum value (100%) of the accelerator opening Acc (100%) and the maximum value (100%) is controlled. Based on the accelerator opening Acc and the vehicle speed V, a torque within the range below the maximum torque Trmax is obtained as the required torque Tr *. In the eco mode and the EV mode, the maximum is obtained with respect to the maximum value (100%) of the accelerator opening Acc. A control torque Acc * smaller than the value (100%) is obtained, and the maximum torque is calculated as the required torque Tr * based on the control accelerator opening Acc * and the vehicle speed V. It was assumed that the torque slightly smaller torque Trmax1 the range from click Trmax is obtained.

In addition, the operation line of the engine 22 of the embodiment is an example of setting the target rotational speed Ne * and the target torque Te * of the engine 22 as well as an example of the fuel efficiency optimum operation line and the torque priority operation line of FIG. As shown in the above, in the normal mode, the eco mode, and the EV mode, the optimum fuel consumption operation line for efficiently operating the engine 22 is used, and in the power mode, the same power (required power Pe *) is given. Torque-priority operation that is determined so that a small rotation speed (target rotation speed Ne *) and a large torque (target torque Te *) can be obtained while allowing a slight deterioration in fuel consumption compared to the fuel efficiency optimal operation line. A line was used.

Furthermore, the rate of change in torque from the motors MG1 and MG2 of the embodiment is adjusted by changing the rate value for setting the torque commands Tm1 * and Tm2 * of the motors MG1 and MG2 using rate processing for each mode. In normal mode, rate value ΔTm is used, in power mode, rate value ΔTm1 larger than rate value ΔTm is used, and in eco mode and EV mode, rate value ΔTm2 smaller than rate value ΔTm is used. .

In addition, the starting threshold value to be compared with the required power Pe * of the engine 22 of the embodiment is the required power Pe * that is better to start the engine 22 in order to operate the engine 22 efficiently in the normal mode and the eco mode. A basic threshold value Pstart defined as the lower limit of the range is used. In the power mode, a threshold value Pstart1 slightly smaller than the threshold value Pstart is used so that the engine 22 is easily started. In the EV mode, the engine 22 is difficult to start. It is assumed that a threshold value Pstart2 slightly larger than the threshold value Pstart is used.

Therefore, in the EV mode, by providing a dead zone of the accelerator opening Acc in relation to the accelerator opening Acc and the control accelerator opening Acc *, and using a threshold value Pstart2 larger than the normal mode as a starting threshold value of the engine 22, The driving mode (electrical driving) is prioritized and is easier to continue than the normal mode. Here, an example of the relationship between the running mode and the power output characteristics is shown in FIGS. In the embodiment, by adjusting the accelerator opening Acc * for control, the maximum value of the required torque Tr *, the operating line, and the change rate of the motor torque in accordance with the travel mode, as shown in FIG. For example, the degree of suppressing the output of the driving force of the vehicle (hereinafter referred to as the degree of suppressing the driving force output) is smaller (loosened) in the order of the EV mode, the eco mode, the normal mode, and the power mode. Further, in the embodiment, by further adjusting the starting threshold value of the engine 22 according to the driving mode, as shown in FIG. 8, the driving is continued according to the engine operation mode or the motor operation mode as one of the power output characteristics. Battery output distribution that reflects the ratio of the amount of discharged power from the battery 50 to the total amount of power for traveling output from the engine 22 and the battery 50 (for example, traveling a predetermined distance with a predetermined accelerator operation and brake operation) (Which reflects the ratio of the amount of electric power discharged from the battery 50 to the total amount of travel power required) is small in the order of EV mode, eco mode, normal mode, and power mode (for example, from around 90%) Up to around 10%). In the embodiment, when the driving force output suppression degree or the battery output distribution degree becomes small, the acceleration force of the vehicle becomes strong and the fuel consumption (energy efficiency) deteriorates. In the embodiment, the mode numbers are assigned in the order from the travel mode with the larger driving force output suppression degree and the battery output distribution degree to the smaller travel mode, that is, mode number 1 in the EV mode and eco mode. Mode number 2, mode number 3 for normal mode, and mode number 4 for power mode.

Next, the operation of the hybrid vehicle 20 of the embodiment, in particular, the operation when the traveling mode is switched by operating the two

paddle switches

89a and 89b will be described. FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a travel mode switching routine executed by the HVECU 70. This routine is repeatedly executed every predetermined time (for example, every several msec) in parallel with a drive control routine (not shown). When the routine is executed for the first time after the ignition is turned on, the normal mode is selected as the first travel mode.

When the travel mode switching routine is executed, the HVECU 70 first inputs data necessary for switching the travel mode, such as the storage ratio SOC of the battery 50 and the current mode number Nmod which is the mode number of the currently selected travel mode. Processing is executed (step S100). In the embodiment, the storage ratio SOC of the battery 50 is calculated based on the integrated value of the charge / discharge current Ib detected by a current sensor (not shown) and is input from the battery ECU 52 by communication. The current mode number Nmod is input with the mode number 3 (see FIGS. 7 and 8) corresponding to the normal mode when the routine is executed for the first time after the ignition is turned on. When the mode is not switched, it is retained without being changed, and when it is switched to the travel mode of the target mode number Nmod * by this routine, the target mode number Nmod * at that time is input.

When the data is input in this way, it is determined whether or not switching of the driving mode is instructed (step S110). In this embodiment, this determination is made by determining whether either the upshift signal Mup from the paddle switch 89a or the downshift signal Mdwn from the paddle switch 89b is input. When it is determined that switching of the driving mode is not instructed, that is, when neither the upshift signal Mup from the paddle switch 89a nor the downshift signal Mdwn from the paddle switch 89b is input, the current mode number that has been input Nmod is set to a temporary mode number Ntmp which is a temporary value of the target mode number Nmod * (step S130).

When it is determined that switching of the driving mode is instructed, an upshift signal Mup is input from the paddle switch 89a, that is, an upshift to switch to a driving mode having a mode number larger than the current mode number Nmod is instructed, or the paddle switch 89b It is determined whether or not a downshift signal Mdwn is input, that is, whether or not a downshift to switch to a travel mode having a mode number smaller than the current mode number Nmod is instructed (step S120). In the embodiment, the upshift or downshift of the travel mode means a shift to a travel mode with a higher mode number or a shift to a travel mode with a lower mode number, and the shift position SP is changed. It has nothing to do with.

When it is determined that the downshift is instructed, the larger one of the value obtained by subtracting the value 1 from the current mode number Nmod and the minimum mode number 1 corresponding to the EV mode is set as the temporary mode number Ntmp (step S140). When it is determined that an upshift has been instructed, the smaller one of the current mode number Nmod plus 1 and the maximum mode number 4 corresponding to the power mode is set as the temporary mode number Ntmp (step S150). Therefore, when an upshift is instructed when the current mode number Nmod is mode number 4, the current mode number Nmod is set to the temporary mode number Ntmp. When downshift is instructed when the current mode number Nmod is mode number 1, the current mode number Nmod is set to the temporary mode number Ntmp.

Thus, when temporary mode number Ntmp is set, upper and lower limit mode numbers Nmax and Nmin are set as upper and lower limits of target mode number Nmod * based on the storage ratio SOC of battery 50 (step S160). In this embodiment, in this embodiment, the relationship between the storage ratio SOC of the battery 50 and the upper / lower limit mode numbers Nmax and Nmin is determined in advance and stored in a ROM (not shown) as an upper / lower limit mode number setting map. When given, the upper and lower limit mode numbers Nmax and Nmin corresponding to the stored map are derived and set. An example of the upper / lower limit mode number setting map is shown in FIG. In the figure, the ratios S1 to S6 increase in this order, and “1 → 2” and “2 → 3” corresponding to the ratios S3, S2, and S1 (for example, 50%, 45%, 42%, etc., respectively). , “3 → 4” lines are forcibly shifted (upshifts) from the mode Nos. 1, 2, and 3 to the mode Nos. 2, 3, and 4 when the storage rate SOC decreases. ), The lines “4 → 3”, “3 → 2”, “2 → 1” corresponding to the ratios S4, S5, S6 (for example, 65%, 70%, 73%, etc., respectively) When the power storage rate SOC increases, it indicates that the

mode number

4, 3, or 2 should be forcibly shifted (downshift) from the

mode number

4, 3, or 2 mode. Accordingly, the upper and lower limit mode numbers Nmax and Nmin are set to

numbers

4 and 4 when the storage rate SOC is less than the rate S1, respectively, and

numbers

4 and 3 are set when the storage rate SOC is greater than or equal to the rate S1 and less than the rate S2.

Numbers

4 and 2 are set when the SOC is a ratio S2 or more and less than the ratio S3,

numbers

4 and 1 are set when the storage ratio SOC is a ratio S3 or more and less than the ratio S4, and

numbers

3 and 3 are set when the storage ratio SOC is a ratio S4 or more and less than the ratio S5. 1 is set,

numbers

2 and 1 are set when the power storage rate SOC is greater than or equal to the rate S5 and less than the rate S6, and

numbers

1 and 1 are set when the power storage rate SOC is greater than the rate S6. That is, the battery output distribution level is switched to a smaller travel mode as the power storage rate SOC of the battery 50 is lower, and the battery output distribution level is switched to a higher travel mode as the power storage rate SOC is higher (see FIG. 8). Specifically, when a driving mode upshift or downshift is instructed, the instruction is rejected, or even when a driving mode upshift or downshift is not instructed The mode will be switched automatically.

When the upper / lower limit mode numbers Nmax and Nmin are set in this way, the target mode number Nmod * is set by limiting the temporary mode number Ntmp by the following equation (1) with the set upper / lower limit mode numbers Nmax and Nmin (step S170). It is determined whether the target mode number Nmod * is different from the current mode number Nmod (step S180). When the target mode number Nmod * is different from the current mode number Nmod, the target mode number Nmod * is switched to the travel mode (step S190), and this routine is terminated. The target mode number Nmod * is changed to the current mode number Nmod *. When it is the same as Nmod, this routine is terminated without switching the traveling mode. When the travel mode is switched, the engine 22 and the motors MG1 and MG2 are controlled so that travel based on the required torque Tr * is performed by a drive control routine (not shown) in the travel mode after switching. Specifically, in the engine operation mode, a target operation point of the engine 22 is set by the drive control routine and transmitted to the engine ECU 24, and torque commands Tm1 * and Tm2 * of the motors MG1 and MG2 are set to the motor ECU 40. The engine ECU 24 controls the operation of the engine 22 at the target operation point, and the motor ECU 40 controls the motors MG1, MG2 (switching control of the inverters 41, 42) using the torque commands Tm1 *, Tm2 *. . In the motor operation mode, the torque command Tm2 * of the motor MG2 is set and transmitted to the motor ECU 40 by the drive control routine, and the motor MG2 is controlled by the torque command Tm2 * (switching control of the inverter 42).

Nmod * = max (min (Ntmp, Nmax), Nmin) (1)

In this way, basically, the driving mode is switched to one direction in a predetermined order (order of

mode numbers

1, 2, 3, and 4) by operating the right paddle switch 89a, and the left paddle switch 89b is operated. By switching the driving mode to the other direction in the order opposite to the predetermined order (order of

mode numbers

4, 3, 2, 1), the switch for instructing the EV mode, the switch for instructing the eco mode, the power mode In addition, the travel mode can be switched without releasing the hand from the steering wheel 90 during travel, and the operability when switching the travel mode can be improved. As a result, it is possible to easily select a driving mode according to the driver's request, and it is possible to provide a pleasure for the driver to select a driving mode. Moreover, since the battery 50 is automatically switched to a travel mode in which the battery output distribution is smaller as the storage rate SOC of the battery 50 is lower, the battery 50 is discharged while the storage rate SOC of the battery 50 is lower, and the storage rate SOC is allowed. The storage ratio SOC is prevented from approaching the upper limit value in which the storage ratio SOC is allowed without being discharged so much when the storage ratio SOC of the battery 50 is high. It is possible to suppress the SOC from becoming smaller or larger than the proper range.

According to the hybrid vehicle 20 of the embodiment described above, the power output characteristics including the normal mode differ according to one operation of the two

paddle switches

89a and 89b provided at the left and right opposing positions of the steering wheel 90. The travel mode is switched to one direction in a predetermined order between the above (four in the embodiment) travel modes, and the other operation of the two

paddle switches

89a and 89b changes the travel mode to be opposite to the predetermined order. Since it switches to another direction in order, the operativity at the time of switching driving modes can be improved. In addition, since the battery power distribution ratio SOC of the battery 50 is switched to the travel mode in which the battery output distribution is small, the travel is performed so as to prevent the power storage ratio SOC of the battery 50 from becoming smaller or larger than an appropriate range. The mode can be switched automatically.

In the hybrid vehicle 20 of the embodiment, the temporary mode number Ntmp is set to the target mode number Nmod * within the range of the upper and lower limit mode numbers Nmax and Nmin based on the storage ratio SOC of the battery 50. However, based on the storage ratio SOC The temporary mode number Ntmp may be set to the target mode number Nmod * as it is without setting the upper and lower limit mode numbers Nmax and Nmin.

In the hybrid vehicle 20 of the embodiment, four modes of EV mode, eco mode, normal mode, and power mode are prepared as the travel mode, but the eco mode is not prepared among these four travel modes. The power mode may not be prepared among these four travel modes.

In the hybrid vehicle 20 of the embodiment, four modes of EV mode, eco mode, normal mode, and power mode are prepared as driving modes. However, in addition to these four driving modes, power output characteristics are different. Other travel modes may be prepared. For example, as shown in the relationship between the driving mode and the power output characteristics (driving force output suppression degree) in the modified example of FIG. 11, a battery output mode in which the driving force output suppression degree is intermediate between the EV mode and the eco mode is prepared. The driving mode may be switched in the order of EV mode, battery output mode, eco mode, normal mode, and power mode. Here, the battery output mode includes a travel mode in which the dead zone of the accelerator opening Acc is set to a range smaller than the EV mode so that the control accelerator opening Acc * is equal to or less than the eco mode value and equal to or greater than the EV mode value. can do.

Further, as shown in the relationship between the driving mode and the power output characteristic (the driving force output suppression degree) in the modification of FIG. 12, the motor 22 is started without starting the engine 22 at all as the driving mode having the largest driving force output suppression degree. It is also possible to prepare a complete EV mode that travels using only the power from the MG2 and switch the travel mode in the order of the complete EV mode, EV mode, eco mode, normal mode, and power mode.

Further, as shown in the relationship between the driving mode and the power output characteristics (about battery output distribution) of the modified example of FIG. 13, a slightly eco mode in which the battery output distribution is intermediate between the eco mode and the normal mode is prepared. The driving mode may be switched in the order of EV mode, eco mode, slightly eco mode, normal mode, and power mode. Here, the slightly eco mode can be a travel mode in which the maximum value of the required torque Tr * and the change rate of the motor torque are determined to be an intermediate value between the eco mode and the normal mode.

Alternatively, as shown in the relationship between the travel mode and the power output characteristics (battery charge / discharge characteristics) of the modification of FIG. 14, the required power Pe * of the engine 22 as a control item adjusted according to the travel mode is used for travel. In addition to the normal mode in which the charge / discharge required power Pb * (a positive value when discharging from the battery 50) is subtracted from the power Pdrv *, the required power Pe * of the engine 22 is calculated from the travel power Pdrv * in the normal mode. A charge travel mode that calculates by reducing the forced charge power that is smaller than the charge / discharge required power Pb * (large on the charge side), and a forced discharge mode that continues the travel in the motor operation mode (electric travel) regardless of the accelerator opening Acc. It is good also as what switches driving mode in order of charge driving mode, normal mode, and forced discharge mode. Here, the charge / discharge required power Pb * is a comparison between the power storage ratio center as the management target value of the charge / discharge request power Pb * of the battery 50 and the power storage ratio SOC of the battery 50, and the power storage ratio SOC is lower than the power storage ratio center. The charge / discharge required power Pb * is increased to the negative side (charge request side), and the charge / discharge required power b * is increased to the positive side (discharge request side) as the storage ratio SOC is higher than the center of the storage ratio. can do. Further, as the forced charging power, the lower limit value (negative value) of the charge / discharge required power Pb * can be used.

Note that as the driving modes having different power output characteristics, a snow mode for driving on a road surface having a small friction coefficient, a mountain mode suitable for driving on an uphill road or a downhill road, and the like may be prepared.

In the hybrid vehicle 20 of the embodiment, the driving modes are switched in the order corresponding to the power output characteristics, but the order of switching the driving modes may be a predetermined order regardless of the power output characteristics.

In the hybrid vehicle 20 of the embodiment, the control items adjusted according to the driving mode include the control accelerator opening Acc *, the maximum value of the required torque Tr *, the operation line of the engine 22, and the torque from the motors MG1 and MG2. Although five items of the change rate and the starting threshold value of the required power Pe * of the engine 22 are used, only some of these five types of control items may be used. For example, the starting threshold value of the required power Pe * of the engine 22 may be a uniform value in all travel modes. In the case of this example, the switching order of the driving mode is set to the order corresponding only to the driving force output suppression without considering the switching order of the driving mode according to the battery output distribution degree. The remaining four types of control items may be adjusted.

In the hybrid vehicle 20 of the embodiment, the control items adjusted according to the driving mode include the control accelerator opening Acc *, the maximum value of the required torque Tr *, the operation line of the engine 22, and the torque from the motors MG1 and MG2. Five items of the change rate and the starting threshold value of the required power Pe * of the engine 22 are used. However, instead of or in addition to these control items, the rotation for motoring the engine 22 by the motor MG1 when the accelerator is off. By adjusting the number according to the travel mode, or by adjusting the required torque Tr * when the accelerator is off and at an extremely low vehicle speed, according to the travel mode, the control items in each travel mode of the modification of FIG. As shown in the combination, the size of the so-called engine brake acting on the drive shaft 36 and the output to the drive shaft 36 The size of the so-called creep torque may be as a control item. Further, instead of or in addition to the adjustment of these control items, as shown in the combination of control items in each travel mode of the modified example of FIG. 16, the power storage as the management target value of the charge / discharge required power Pb * of the battery 50 The ratio center may be adjusted according to the travel mode, or the maximum value of the voltage VH applied to the inverters 41 and 42 (motors MG1 and MG2) may be adjusted according to the travel mode under the control of the boost converter 55. .

In the hybrid vehicle 20 of the embodiment, it has been described that the instruction of upshifting or downshifting by operating the paddle switches 89a and 89b is not related to the change of the shift position SP, but the sequential shift position is one of the shift positions SP. In the case of a vehicle for which is prepared, the driving mode may be switched by operating the paddle switches 89a and 89b, or upshifting and downshifting (changing the gear position) at the sequential shift position may be performed.

In the hybrid vehicle 20 of the embodiment, the driving mode is switched in the order of EV mode, eco mode, normal mode, and power mode by operating the paddle switch 89a on the right side of the steering wheel 90, and by operating the paddle switch 89b on the left side of the steering wheel 90. The driving mode is switched in the reverse order, but the driving mode is switched in the order of power mode, normal mode, eco mode, and EV mode by operating the paddle switch 89a on the right side of the steering wheel 90, and the steering wheel 90 is switched. The driving mode may be switched in the reverse order by operating the paddle switch 89b on the left side.

In the hybrid vehicle 20 of the embodiment, by the processing of steps S140 and S150 of the travel mode switching routine of FIG. 9, up to the travel mode of the maximum mode number 4 and the travel mode of the minimum mode number 1 are switched as the travel mode. However, instead of this, it is also possible to switch the rotary mode so as to circulate the driving mode. For example, as shown in the state of switching the eco mode, the normal mode, and the power mode as the travel modes of the modified example of FIG. 17 in the rotary form, the eco mode, the normal mode, the power mode, the eco mode, The driving mode is switched to circulate in a predetermined order of... And the driving mode is changed in the order opposite to the predetermined order of the power mode, normal mode, eco mode, power mode,. It is good also as switching so that it may circulate.

In the hybrid vehicle 20 of the embodiment, the paddle switches 89a and 89b are of a type that outputs a signal when operated (pulled) to the front side. Instead, the paddle switches 89a and 89b are operated to the back side. Two paddle switches of a type that outputs a signal when pressed (pressed) may be provided.

In the hybrid vehicle 20 of the embodiment, the display control associated with the change of the driving mode is not particularly described. For example, the color of the meter display area in front of the driver's seat is changed according to the driving mode, or the front of the driver's seat is changed. Information on the currently selected travel mode (for example, the mode number, the mode name, and the content and size of the control item) may be displayed on the display device.

In the hybrid vehicle 20 of the embodiment, the power from the motor MG2 is output to the drive shaft 36. However, as illustrated in the hybrid vehicle 120 of the modified example of FIG. 18, the drive shaft 36 transmits the power from the motor MG2. It may be connected to an axle (an axle connected to the

wheels

39a and 39b in FIG. 18) different from the connected axle (the axle to which the

drive wheels

38a and 38b are connected).

In the hybrid vehicle 20 of the embodiment, the power from the engine 22 is output to the drive shaft 36 connected to the

drive wheels

38a and 38b via the planetary gear 30, but is exemplified in the hybrid vehicle 220 of the modification of FIG. As described above, the inner rotor 232 connected to the crankshaft of the engine 22 and the outer rotor 234 connected to the drive shaft 36 that outputs power to the

drive wheels

38a and 38b have a part of the power from the engine 22. A counter-rotor motor 230 that transmits power to the drive shaft 36 and converts remaining power into electric power may be provided.

drive wheels

38a and 38b via the planetary gear 30, and the power from the motor MG2 is output to the drive shaft 36. However, as illustrated in the hybrid vehicle 320 of the modification of FIG. 20, the motor MG is attached to the drive shaft 36 connected to the

drive wheels

38a and 38b via the transmission 330, and the clutch 329 is attached to the rotation shaft of the motor MG. The power from the engine 22 is output to the drive shaft 36 via the rotation shaft of the motor MG and the transmission 330, and the power from the motor MG is output to the drive shaft via the transmission 330. It is good also as what outputs to 36.

drive wheels

38a and 38b via the planetary gear 30, and the power from the motor MG2 is output to the drive shaft 36. However, as illustrated in the hybrid vehicle 420 of the modified example of FIG. 21, all of the power from the engine 22 is used for power generation by the motor MG1, and the battery 50 is charged and the electric power from the battery 50 is used only from the motor MG2. Power may be output to the drive shaft 36.

In the embodiment, the present invention is applied to the hybrid vehicle 20. However, the power from the motor MG is transmitted via the transmission 530 without the engine as illustrated in the electric vehicle 520 of the modified example of FIG. Then, it may be output to the drive shaft connected to the

drive wheels

38a, 38b. In other words, any type of vehicle may be used as long as the vehicle includes a motor for traveling and a battery capable of supplying electric power to the motor.

The correspondence between the main elements of the embodiment and the main elements of the invention described in the Summary of Invention will be described. In the embodiment, the motor MG2 corresponds to the “motor”, the battery 50 corresponds to the “battery”, and is provided on the left side of the steering wheel 90 and the paddle switch 89a provided on the right side of the steering wheel 90. 89b corresponds to a “paddle switch”, and the right paddle switch 89a is operated to upshift the driving mode in the order of

mode numbers

1, 2, 3, and 4, and the left paddle switch 89b is operated to operate mode number 4, The HVECU 70 that executes the travel mode switching routine of FIG. 9 for downshifting the travel mode in the order of 3, 2, 1 corresponds to “mode switching means”. Further, the engine 22 corresponds to “engine”, the motor MG1 corresponds to “generator”, and the planetary gear 30 corresponds to “planetary gear”.

Here, the “motor” is not limited to the motor MG2 configured as a synchronous generator motor, and may be any type of motor that can input and output driving power, such as an induction motor. It doesn't matter. The “battery” is not limited to the battery 50 configured as a lithium ion secondary battery, but can supply power to a motor for traveling such as a nickel hydride secondary battery, a nickel cadmium secondary battery, or a lead storage battery. Any type of battery may be used. The “paddle switch” is not limited to the paddle switch 89a provided on the right side of the steering wheel 90 and the 89b provided on the left side of the steering wheel 90. Any two paddle switches provided at the positions may be used. As the “mode switching means”, the traveling mode is upshifted in the order of

mode numbers

1, 2, 3 and 4 by operation of the right paddle switch 89a, and

mode numbers

4, 3, and 2 are operated by operation of the left paddle switch 89b. , 1 is not limited to downshifting the driving mode in order, driving mode between three or more driving modes with different power output characteristics including normal mode by one of the two paddle switches Is switched in one direction in a predetermined order, and the other mode of the two paddle switches is used to switch the traveling mode in the opposite direction to the predetermined order between three or more traveling modes. It doesn't matter what. Further, the “engine” is not limited to the engine 22 using gasoline or light oil as fuel, and any type of engine such as a hydrogen engine may be used. The “generator” is not limited to the motor MG1 configured as a synchronous generator motor. For example, any type of motor such as an induction motor that can exchange power with a battery and input / output power can be used. It may be a generator. The “planetary gear” is not limited to the planetary gear 30, but is a double pinion type other than a single pinion type or a combination of a plurality of planetary gears. As long as three rotating elements are connected to three axes with the rotating shaft of the machine, any configuration may be used.

The correspondence between the main elements of the embodiment and the main elements of the invention described in the summary section of the invention is a specific form of the embodiment for carrying out the invention described in the summary section of the invention. Since this is an example for explanation, the elements of the invention described in the summary section of the invention are not limited. That is, the interpretation of the invention described in the Summary of Invention column should be made based on the description in that column, and the Examples are only specific examples of the invention described in the Summary of Invention column. It is.

As mentioned above, although the form for implementing this invention was demonstrated using the Example, this invention is not limited at all to such an Example, In the range which does not deviate from the summary of this invention, it is with various forms. Of course, it can be implemented.

The present invention can be used in the automobile manufacturing industry.

Claims

An automobile comprising a motor for traveling and a battery capable of supplying electric power to the motor,
Two paddle switches provided at opposite positions on the left and right of the steering wheel;
By operating one of the two paddle switches, the traveling mode is switched in one direction in a predetermined order between three or more traveling modes having different power output characteristics including the normal mode, and the other of the two paddle switches Mode switching means for switching the traveling mode to the other direction in the order opposite to the predetermined order between the three or more traveling modes by the operation of
Automobile equipped with.
The automobile according to claim 1,
Equipped with an engine that can output power for running,
The driving mode includes an electric driving priority mode that makes it easier to continue electric driving that uses only power input and output from the motor than the normal mode, and an output of driving force is suppressed from the normal mode to reduce fuel consumption. Including at least one of a priority eco mode and a power mode that prioritizes driving power output over the normal mode,
Car.
The automobile according to claim 2,
The predetermined order is the order of the electric driving priority mode, the eco mode, the normal mode, and the power mode, the electric driving priority mode, the eco mode, the order of the normal mode, the electric driving priority mode, Either of the normal mode or the order of the power mode,
Car.
The automobile according to any one of claims 1 to 3,
The predetermined order is an order according to the degree of suppressing the output of the driving force.
Car.
The automobile according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein
The predetermined order is an order according to the degree of battery output distribution that reflects the ratio of the amount of discharged electric power from the battery to the total amount of power for traveling when traveling is continued.
Car.
The automobile according to claim 5,
The mode switching means is means for switching to the travel mode with a smaller battery output distribution degree as the storage ratio, which is the ratio of the storage amount to the battery capacity, is lower regardless of the operation of the two paddle switches.
Car.
The automobile according to any one of claims 1 to 6,
Equipped with an engine that can output power for running,
A generator capable of exchanging power with the battery and capable of inputting and outputting power;
A planetary gear in which three rotating elements are connected to three axes of a driving shaft coupled to an axle, an output shaft of the engine, and a rotating shaft of the generator;
With
The rotation shaft of the motor is connected to the drive shaft,
Car.