Main Article Content
Abstract
The automotive industry continues to evolve with a focus on energy efficiency and emission reduction, driving the development of electric vehicles as a sustainable transportation solution. One crucial aspect of electric vehicle design is the chassis, which serves as the primary structural support for the vehicle and its electrical system. However, selecting the optimal material remains a key challenge in ensuring safety, strength, and efficiency. This study aims to evaluate the Tubular Space Frame Chassis Design using Finite Element Analysis (FEA) in SolidWorks 2020 to analyze stress, deformation, and the factor of safety (FOS) across three primary materials: Aluminum A6061, Aluminum 6061-T6, and Plain Carbon Steel. Simulations were conducted under operational load conditions, revealing a maximum stress of 47,839 N/m² and a minimum of 4,783 N/m², indicating uniform stress distribution and resistance to excessive stress concentration. The maximum displacement of 1.55 mm and minimum of 0.15 mm demonstrates good structural rigidity, while the FOS results confirm Aluminum 6061-T6 as the most optimal material, achieving the highest FOS value of 5.7. This material selection enhances safety while maintaining a lightweight structure, contributing to improved energy efficiency in electric vehicles. Thus, this research supports advancements in robust, safe, and efficient chassis designs, providing a valuable reference for further innovations in sustainable electric vehicle development.