A review of drive torque distribution control for distributed drive electric vehicles

Distributed drive electric vehicles have the advantages of the ability to drive each wheel independently, the possibility of braking energy recovery, and a variety of steering modes, which has a major impact on enhancing the operational stability and energetic performance of the vehicle. The torque distribution control of distributed drive electric vehicles provides more rapid and precise elements for the drive anti-skid system and brake anti-lock braking system. However, it still faces theoretical and technical challenges in the torque distribution process for distributed drive electric vehicles due to the characteristics of over-constraints and strongly coupled nonlinearities of the vehicle’s dynamical state. Due to these dimensions, this paper reviews the latest research progress on driving torque distribution control strategy for distributed-drive electric vehicles, from aspects such as the vehicle stability control, energetic performance control, vehicle road-tracking control, combined vehicle safety and energy efficiency control strategy. The torque distribution control strategy of vehicle under different operating conditions is the focus of the analysis in this research paper, providing a foundation for future researchers. Finally, the development of torque distribution is discussed from different perspectives respectively, aiming to promote the development of high-performance torque distribution controllers.