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This paper describes modeling and simulation technologies used to simulate the electrical systems of Army vehicles using Matlab/Simulink coupled with graphical user interface software. The models were built using Mathworks' Matlab/Simulink software in conjunction with the SimPowerSystems Toolbox, a toolkit provided by Mathworks that provides models of basic electrical components such as capacitors and inductors, in addition to more advanced components such as diodes and IGBT's. The current results of this ongoing effort are presented and discussed.

This paper reports experimental results of engine starting trials conducted by the Army on common military vehicles using capacitor power sources. Improved starting performance can be obtained with the use of a capacitor, particularly at low temperatures. Power delivered by battery-capacitor systems are presented and compared to battery-only systems. Weight, volume, life, and cost comparisons for the two systems are given. A preliminary life-of-system cost analysis is presented and shows the potential for substantial cost savings to the Army from the use of capacitors in its vehicles.