A Hybrid Electric Vehicle longitudinal dynamics model for the control of energy management is developed. The model is implemented using Simulink and consists of a transitional vehicle speed input parameterized by, for example, the New European Driving Cycle. It is a backward looking model in that engine and motor on/off states are determined by the controller, dependent on wheel torque requirements and output targets. The objective of the simulation is to calculate tractive effort and resistance forces to determine longitudinal net vehicle force at the road. This article addresses model development and initial investigations of its dynamic behaviour in order to establish appropriate energy management strategies for the Hybrid Electric system. In particular, All Wheel Drive, Front Wheel Drive and Rear Wheel Drive drivetrain architectures are evaluated to determine minimum fuel usage and battery state of charge. The use of a logic controller allows a reduction of simulation time and ensures accurate results for charge depletion and harvesting. Simulated fuel consumption is within 1% of actual usage.