Integrated Control Strategy Combining Torque Vectoring and Rear-Wheel Steering for Enhanced Stability and Maneuverability

A controller mechanism combining torque vectoring control (TVC) and rear-wheel steering (RWS) is tested to improve vehicle stability and maneuverability. A combined feedforward and feedback control strategy is developed to reduce the turning radius and minimize yaw rate error. Seven driving scenarios are designed as test cases. Four test cases target reducing turning radius, and three test cases focus on minimizing the yaw rate error during deceleration and cornering. Each of these scenarios is tested under four conditions: 1) no TVC or RWS, 2) TVC only, 3) RWS only, 4) both TVC and RWS. Driving scenarios and vehicle dynamics were created using AVL VSM software. MATLAB-Simulink was used for the development of control algorithms. Results showed that the combined control strategy consistently outperforms basic control strategies alone. The smallest turning radius and lowest yaw rate error are achieved using the combined control strategy. Results show that combined control mechanisms can improve vehicle’s dynamic performance, leading to improved stability, maneuverability, and overall handling under various driving conditions.