Mission-Level Powertrain Simulation for the UK MoD

Background

Dstl adapted the ePOP platform into a specialised Battlefield Mission (BFM) Tool as part of the UK Ministry of Defence’s TD6 Hybrid Electric Drive programme. The aim was to explore hybrid-electric technologies for in-service military vehicles and support the British Army’s emerging Battlefield Electrification Strategy.

Project Objective

Develop a configurable mission-level simulation tool that allows defence users to evaluate powertrain behaviour in uncertain, high-demand operational scenarios, and quantify the benefits of hybrid-electric drive technologies across realistic battlefield mission profiles.

Approach

Working closely with Dstl, the ePOP framework was reconfigured into a mission-centric toolset capable of:

• Defining bespoke operational cycles
• Modelling a wide range of hybrid-electric powertrain architectures
• Simulating vehicle behaviour under extreme load, thermal, and terrain conditions

This setup enabled defence analysts to explore technology options and assess performance envelopes for both current and future military platforms.

Outcome

Although later phases of the TD6 programme did not proceed due to funding changes, Dstl highlighted the significant value of the tool’s documentation, configurability, and reusability. The adapted platform remains applicable to future research in mobility, modelling, and technology exploration.

The project demonstrated how ePOP can be effectively tailored to defence-specific mission analysis requirements and serve as a foundation for ongoing or future electrification initiatives.

Key Results

Mission-Specific Scenario Simulation

Capability to model powertrain behaviour under uncertain or complex mission cycles, including rapid “get in/get out” operations.

Enhanced Gradability Assessment

Ability to evaluate vehicle performance on steep, rugged, or high-load terrain, supporting mobility planning for demanding environments.