Simulation and analysis of vehicle dynamics using Simcentre Amesim

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Vehicle dynamics analysis is a fundamental aspect of modern automotive engineering, directly influencing vehicle stability, ride comfort, and handling performance. With the increasing complexity of vehicle systems, simulation-based approaches have become essential tools for evaluating dynamic behaviour under diverse operating conditions while reducing the cost and time associated with physical testing. 
OBJECTIVES: The objective of this paper is to develop and validate a comprehensive vehicle dynamics simulation framework for a B-segment city car, capable of reproducing manufacturer-level ride and handling assessments. The study aims to evaluate key dynamic responses, including yaw behaviour, roll characteristics, tire load transfer, steering effort, and trajectory stability, using an integrated multi-domain modelling approach. METHODS: A full-vehicle model was developed using a multi-domain simulation environment, integrating chassis, suspension, powertrain, braking, and steering subsystems. We represented the chassis using a multi-degree-of-freedom formulation. It incorporates suspension kinematics, elastokinematic compliance, and aerodynamic effects. Functional modelling approaches were employed for the powertrain, braking, and steering systems to ensure numerical robustness. A series of standardized driving manoeuvres, including acceleration, braking, steady-state cornering, crosswind disturbance, and quasi-static steering sweeps, was simulated to assess both transient and steady-state vehicle dynamics responses. RESULTS: The simulation results show that the characteristic velocity reaches approximately 22 m/s, while the roll gradient and understeer gradient are estimated at 0.56°/(m/s²) and 0.31°/(m/s²), respectively. These values fall within the reported ranges for B-segment passenger vehicles, indicating that the model captures key handling characteristics with a relative deviation below 5%. Vertical tire force distribution remained balanced throughout lateral manoeuvres, ensuring stable tire–road contact. Steering torque levels were smooth and monotonic, providing predictable driver feedback, and the vehicle trajectory showed stable and well-controlled path-following behaviour across all tested scenarios.
CONCLUSION: The study confirms that the proposed simulation framework is capable of accurately reproducing key ride and handling characteristics of a B-segment city car. The results validate the effectiveness of multi-domain vehicle dynamics modelling for early-stage design evaluation and virtual testing. The approach provides a reliable foundation for vehicle dynamics assessment and can be extended to future studies involving advanced chassis control systems, active suspensions, and electrified powertrains.