MATLAB Implementation of a Complete Vehicle Model with Road Excitation for Tire Testing

This article presents a MATLAB-based complete vehicle model that incorporates all major subsystems (including engine, transmission system, suspension, etc.) along with a road excitation model for tire testing applications. The model implements sophisticated algorithms to simulate diverse road conditions such as flat surfaces, mountainous terrain, slippery roads, and more, enabling comprehensive evaluation of tire performance characteristics. Through MATLAB's Simulink environment, the model utilizes block-based modeling approaches to represent vehicle dynamics, where key functions handle powertrain integration, suspension kinematics, and tire-road interaction physics. Additionally, the model serves as a versatile testing platform for various vehicle functionalities and performance metrics, including suspension system stability analysis, braking system effectiveness assessment, and overall vehicle handling characteristics. The implementation features parameterized components allowing customization of vehicle specifications and test scenarios. This model represents an essential tool for both automotive manufacturers and tire producers, providing valuable insights into vehicle and tire behavior through numerical simulation, thereby contributing to enhanced product quality and safety standards.