Introduction (problem statement and relevance). The article presents calculation and experimental studies of modal characteristics of a motor vehicle body required for comprehensive validation of a finite element model (FEM) according to the criterion of reliability of modal shapes, coordinate criteria of modal reliability and the criterion of reliability by frequency response. Within the study, the papers related to calculation model validation in terms of modal characteristics were analyzed, theoretical calculations of the analytical modal analysis were given, a body FEM was developed, body modal characteristics were studied, experimental studies of characteristics of metals, shock absorbing and acoustic materials used in the calculation model were conducted, and also experimental studies of frequencies and mode of the body natural oscillations were performed. The calculation model validation was performed. The algorithm for the calculation models validation was developed.

The purpose of the study is to study vehicle body modal characteristics in order to validate the calculation model.

Methodology and research methods. Study of vehicle body modal characteristics. Calculation model validation. Check of experimental study results in terms of frequencies and modes of natural oscillations.

Scientific novelty and results. The result of the studies is the developed and validated FEM of a modern vehicle body. The developed algorithm that allows validating the calculation model by the criteria of reliability of modal shapes, coordinate criteria of modal reliability and the criterion of reliability by frequency response. The scientific novelty consists in comprehensive FEM validation based on the vehicle body modal characteristics study. For the first time, the materials characteristics obtained from the experimental studies are used in the course of research and a validation algorithm for calculation models has been developed.

Practical significance. The validation algorithm is developed according to which comprehensive FEM validation is performed by the example of a modern vehicle body with the use of modern software packages allowing studying modal characteristics. The research results can be used in scientific, research, educational institutions and manufacturing enterprises specializing in development and production of vehicle bodies for comprehensive FEM validation.

Introduction (problem statement and relevance). The existing methods for development of a model range of hydrodynamic or hydraulic torque converters do not consider characteristics of devices operating together with such converters. Consideration of characteristics of internal combustion engines and gearboxes will allow development of a more rational model range of hydrodynamic torque converters.

The purpose of the study is to develop a method for building a model range of hydrodynamic torque converters taking into account characteristics of devices operating together with such converters.

Methodology and research methods. Based on the analysis of parameters characterizing a hydrodynamic torque converter and of the existing model ranges, key parameters have been selected. To select estimated figures and parameters, mathematical statistics elements have been used.

Scientific novelty and results. The method has been developed that allows keeping and using advantages of the known methods and eliminating a number of their disadvantages. The advantage of the proposed method consists in consideration of characteristics of internal combustion engines and gearboxes assumed to be used, which will allow, using the optimization process, definition of rational key parameters of hydrodynamic torque converter models. Based on the proposed method, a computer application program has been developed for estimation of rationality of key parameters of hydrodynamic torque converters of a model range.

Practical significance. It makes sense to use the proposed method when developing model ranges of hydrodynamic torque converters.

Introduction (problem statement and relevance). Currently, the number of operated passenger vehicles with individual electric propulsion of driving wheels is increasing. Such design is characterized by a short kinematic chain of mechanical transmission with low moment of inertia and damping. At the same time, electric motors can ensure high torque with its rapid change already at the beginning of driving, which can contribute to occurrence of increased tyre slipping and skidding. In this case, self-oscillation processes can emerge in the drive system, and that will affect operational properties when, as the slipping speed increases, the friction force in the contact patch is reduced thus causing higher loads in the drive.

The purpose of the study is to develop a driving wheel spin (slip) monitoring method with a self-oscillation suppression function.

Methodology and research methods. The simulation of processes of formation of self-oscillation phenomena in the wheel and road contact interaction area has been performed in the Matlab Simulink software suite. The method of actual (field) testing on the vehicle with individual electric propulsion of driving wheels has been applied.

Scientific novelty and results. The paper introduces the driving wheel slip monitoring method with the self-oscillation suppression function consisting in motional energy removal from the system. Application of the system with the specified property reduces the peak values (amplitudes) of oscillations of wheel angular velocities by 27.8% and torques by 66.7%.

The practical significance of the study lies in the possibility to use the research results in development of traction control systems with the self-oscillation suppression function.

Introduction (problem statement and relevance). The speed and method of transportation of the injured to the place of providing medical care define success and efficiency of treatment. The transportation shall take minimum time, and it shall be as safe, gentle and sparing as possible. It is essential to follow carrying and transportation rules in order to avoid any complications or aggravations. The studies aimed at analysis of dynamic load on ambulance bus elements when transporting injured people are of high priority and relevance. The mathematical model of motion of the bus with arrangement of stretchers in it for transportation of the injured with the system of elastic suspension for the stretchers is recommended in the paper. The results of test runs of the bus along the set route on a road section with the rough cobblestone pavement are given. The graphs of vertical-plane vibration acceleration change in the areas of accomodation of the injured on the stretchers are obtained.

The purpose of the study is to improve ergonomic characteristics of patient transportation by decreasing dynamic load on attachment elements of stretchers to carry the patients.

Methodology and research methods. The paper contains analysis of the results of experiments aimed at study of the bus motion mathematical model and comparison of those results with the experimental data obtained during field tests.

Scientific novelty and results. The bus motion mathematical model allowing adequate and accurate simulation of bus motion under different road conditions, including critical and emergency modes, is developed.

Practical significance. The study of the mathematical model makes it possible to avoid high dynamic loading of ambulance stretchers and to select favourable modes for ambulance bus motion under different road conditions, including critical emergency situations.

Introduction (problem statement and relevance). When equipping a spark ignition engine with supercharging, there is a need to reduce compression ratio ε. Generally, it can be achieved by means of four different methods. Therefore, it is important to know the nature of influence of each method for ε variation on the value of average cycle pressure p_t .

The purpose of the study is to analyze the nature and degree of influence of the compression ratio for different methods of its variation on average pressure value p_t of the Otto thermodynamic cycle. The conclusions made based on this analysis can be extrapolated to real objects in case of necessity of engine design changing.

Methodology and research methods. In order to solve the assigned task, a computational experiment has been conducted.

Scientific novelty and results. The calculation results have led to the conclusion about different and, in one of the considered cases, very significant influence of the method for varying of ε on the Otto cycle average pressure and on the nature of functional relationship p_t = f (ε).

 Practical significance. The analysis results can be used in order to improve and design reciprocating internal combustion engines with spark ignition.

Introduction (problem statement and relevance). Within the study, review and analysis of possible variants for gear shift control systems architecture for vehicles with mechatronic transmissions are made to detect the respective advantages and disadvantages for each scheme and to determine the most optimum solution for application within the mentioned wheeled vehicles in terms of energy consumption and performance.

The purpose of the study is to determine the most optimum control system for mechatronic transmission gear shift mechanisms of electric vehicles.

Methodology and research methods. This paper is based on methods of reviewing and analyzing gear shift mechanism control systems for the transmission configurations in question.

Scientific novelty and results. The results of the conducted analysis showed that the most suitable variant for the gear shift process control would be the systems based on electric actuators. These control systems will allow providing the required performance when shifting gears as well as lowering total energy costs.

Practical significance. The obtained conclusions can be used when designing gear shift control systems within mechatronic transmissions for vehicles propelled by electrochemical power sources.

Introduction (problem statement and relevance). All over the world, automobile manufacturers and research engineers pay a lot of attention to improving vehicle consumer properties. The correct selection of target parameters of vehicle systems at the initial stage of design work is the major factor influencing the subsequent demand for product in the market. This paper investigates the target parameters of vehicle suspension systems and identifies the target ranges for various chassis kinematics and elastokinetics parameters. Taking into account the worldwide trend of vehicle design timing shortening, this is a relevant task.

The purpose of the study is, using the statistical analysis methods, to determine the target ranges of vehicle suspension guiding device characteristics and to analyze the data presented in the references.

Methodology and research methods. During the paper preparation, the statistical analysis methods were used; also, the references and recommendations given therein were reviewed and analyzed.

Scientific novelty and results. The study proposes advisory ranges of vehicle suspension kinematics and elastokinetics parameters.

Practical significance. Using the study results at the initial stage of vehicle design will allow shortening its duration as the parameters given in the paper can be used before the complete target deployment and vehicle chassis development technical assignment issuance.

Introduction (problem statement and relevance). Rapid growth of vehicle production volume has brought the automotive industry of China to the first place in the world. The vehicle production volumes account for about 27 million pieces per year. The paper addresses the history of development of the automotive industry in China. It presents factors that have caused sudden innovative development, creation of research and development basis and increase of vehicle production in the country. The paper also reviews the prospects for development of the automotive industry. Measures for development of the automotive industry within the planning and management system taken by the Government of the People's Republic of China could serve as a good example for our country for implementation of measures to reduce dependence on unfriendly countries in order to ensure its further development.

The purpose of the study is to analyze approaches and cause-and-effect relations of the Chinese economy development by the example of a specific industry – the automotive industry.

Methodology and research methods. This study uses analytical methods for assessment of management solutions and provides results of automotive industry development in a specific country.

Scientific novelty and results. The policies and actions by the Government of China have been examined regarding automotive industry development, as well as management solutions underlying its development and proven by practical implementation of successful projects.

Practical significance. By the example of China, the possibilities of implementation of import substitution programs, improvement of sanctions stability, overcoming a crisis and dependence of domestic automotive industry on foreign companies from unfriendly countries have been considered.