Designing an automotive network right as fast as possible with the multiple engineering constraints arising in the development cycle of a vehicle makes it extremely important to use a flexible simulation tool. In this paper, it is demonstrated how a multi domain and multi level simulation approach can fulfill this task, from quasi static energy transfers constraints at functional requirements stage to detailed transient analysis when optimizing the system. Various model levels and environment conditions were used depending on the design objective. At start, a representation of the network battery, alternator and loads enabled to give proof of the pre sizing choice validity of those critical devices in simulation. Then, refining the loads consumption and the alternator and battery models, a validation of the complete system design was demonstrated on a NEDC driving cycle. In combination to a vehicle and engine model, it was then possible to explore different control strategies. Finally, to assess the high dynamics performance of the network, a load dump test was undertaken showing that the system satisfied to other kind of constraints. The paper concludes in emphasizing the broad possibilities of use of the tool for vehicle energy management applications among other.
