Green Car Congress: Hybrids

Hybrids

[Due to the increasing size of the archives, each topic page now contains only the prior 365 days of content. Access to older stories is now solely through the Monthly Archive pages or the site search function.]

Prius c hybrid goes on sale in US with entry MSRP of $18,950; new transaxle, motor technology

February 08, 2012

The new transaxle in the Prius c features a new cooling system; overall this new hybrid unit with its 2 motor system is now approaching the same weight as single motor competitive systems and is maintaining a competitive size profile, according to Toyota. Click to enlarge.

Toyota Motor Sales, USA is putting the new Prius c, the fourth member of the expanded Prius family (earlier post), on sale in the US in mid-March with a starting MSRP of $18,950—a lower MSRP than the first-generation Prius carried 12 years ago, noted Bob Carter, Toyota Division Group VP & GM, at the media preview in January for the new hybrid.

With the Prius c (sold as the Aqua in Japan, earlier post), Toyota is striving to strike a balance between fuel efficiency, styling, intelligent connectivity and affordability to attract younger, eco-conscious buyers who may have desired, but couldn’t afford, a hybrid. To help meet that design target, Toyota engineers focused on making the hybrid system more compact and lighter in weight—the Prius c hybrid system is 14% lighter than that of the current Prius Liftback.

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GM makes eAssist standard on the 2013 Buick Regal; new SAE paper coming at World Congress

February 07, 2012

GM is continuing the deployment of the eAssist light electrification system (earlier post) as a standard across its platforms. Starting with the arrival of 2013 models, eAssist will be standard on the Regal with the discontinuation of the 2.4L base model. Both the Regal Turbo and Regal GS models will remain available.

For the 2012 model year, eAssist became standard for the larger Buick LaCrosse luxury sedan. The system has also jumped across brands to the Chevrolet line-up with its application in the new Malibu. The latest version of the eAssist system, as applied in the new Malibu, consists of:

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Audi to compete with hybrid drive at Le Mans for the first time; prototype to be presented at end of February

February 03, 2012

Audi will compete in the 80^th running of the 24 Hours of Le Mans on 16-17 June 2012 with a total of four LMP1 sports cars. Two of the four cars in action will be equipped with hybrid drive for the first time. Audi Sport Team Joest will also follow a two-pronged approach in the newly created FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) during the 2012 season.

Audi racked up its first win for a TFSI engine in 2001 and for a diesel-powered car (the Audi R10 TDI) in 2006. (Earlier post.)

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Volkswagen Group introducing Modular Transverse Matrix this year; new engine families, lighter weight construction, powertrain flexibility

February 01, 2012

Drive systems in the MQB. Click to enlarge.

This year, Volkswagen Group will introduce the Modular Transverse Matrix (MQB, modularen Querbaukasten) for the Volkswagen, Audi, ŠKODA and SEAT brands. (At the Tokyo Motor Show, Volkswagen unveiled the first model publicly shown based on the MQB: the Cross Coupé all-wheel-drive (AWD) plug-in hybrid vehicle (PHEV). (Earlier post.)

Volkswagen says that its MQB strategy represents a turning point in the design and production of its future automobiles with transverse-mounted engines. The Modular Transverse Matrix standardizes many vehicle component parameters across brands and vehicle classes. At the same time, it offers access to new technologies. The MQB extends from the A0 to the B segment.

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California Air Resources Board unanimously adopts Advanced Clean Cars Package

January 27, 2012

ACC combines three sets of regulations to reduce emissions from light-duty vehicles and build the market for advanced zero emission vehicles. Source: ARB. Click to enlarge.

In a unanimous vote on Friday, the California Air Resources Board (ARB) adopted the Advanced Clean Cars (ACC) regulatory package (earlier post), launching California into another round of major automotive regulations for model years 2015-2025 that are designed to deliver cleaner air, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and to help build the future market for battery-electric and fuel-cell electric vehicles.

“This package of regulations is both visionary and absolutely feasible,” said Mary Nichols, ARB Chairman, at the opening of the hearing on the rules on Thursday. “The goal is to accelerate a transition already in process and to make sure it succeeds. This marks a new chapter in the history of ARB.”

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Toyota introduces TS030 Le Mans hybrid, first schedule for Endurance rounds

January 25, 2012

TS030 HYBRID. Click to enlarge.

Toyota Racing will participate in the FIA World Endurance Championship with the TS030 HYBRID—the successor to the TS010 and TS020 cars which participated at Le Mans with podium success during the 1990s, with TS an acronym for Toyota Sport. Toyota is the first manufacturer to confirm its participation in the FIA World Endurance Championship using a hybrid system.

Toyota Racing, based at Toyota Motorsport GmbH (TMG) in Cologne, Germany, will make its race debut on 5 May in the Six Hours of Spa-Francorchamps, the second round of the FIA World Endurance Championship. Toyota Racing intends to enter two cars at the Le Mans 24 Hours (16-17 June). Participation in further rounds will be confirmed soon.

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BAE Systems and Caterpillar sign 20-year agreement to integrate Cat CX transmissions into HybriDrive parallel heavy-duty hybrid system

January 24, 2012

BAE Systems and Caterpillar Inc. have signed a long-term supply agreement to collaborate on a parallel hybrid propulsion system for heavy-duty trucks. Under the 20-year agreement, BAE Systems will integrate the Cat CX family of transmissions into its HybriDrive parallel propulsion system (earlier post), and will establish an aftermarket field services model leveraging Caterpillar’s global service network to support the growing installed base.

In March 2011, the two companies had signed a joint development agreement to collaborate on a parallel hybrid propulsion system for heavy-duty trucks that integrated Caterpillar CX Series Transmissions into the HybriDrive system. (Earlier post.)

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Deloitte suggests Gen Y’s embrace of hybrid vehicles may be auto market’s tipping point

January 19, 2012

Gen Y’s strong affinity for hybrid vehicles could make it the “generation that leads us away from traditional gasoline-powered vehicles,” reports Craig Giffi, vice chairman and automotive practice leader at Deloitte LLP, after seeing the results of Deloitte’s annual survey of consumers and what they want in an automobile. (Deloitte defines Gen Y consumers as those currently ranging in age from 19 to 31.)

59% of Gen Y respondents surveyed prefer an electrified vehicle over any other type of car or truck. Moreover, Gen Y consumers heavily favor hybrid gasoline-electric vehicles (57%) over pure battery electric vehicles (2%) or vehicles with a traditional gasoline-only powertrain (37%).

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Schaeffler showcases eDifferential and eWheel Drive for electric Mobility

Schaeffler’s eDifferential provides drive power for the vehicle as well as allowing power distribution between the wheels on an axle. Click to enlarge.

The Schaeffler Group, a leading global supplier to the automotive industry, used the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit to highlight a number of hybrid solutions and electric mobility products as well as products for optimizing conventional drivetrains based on the internal combustion engine.

The Schaeffler eSolutions concept model at NAIAS showcased technologies such as the eWheel Drive electric wheel hub drive and the eDifferential—an electric axle that allows both the specific distribution of the drive torque to individual wheels and torque vectoring to provide enhanced driving dynamics in electric and hybrid vehicles. Schaeffler has applied these and other eMobility technologies in a trio of on-the-road concept vehicles: ACTIVeDRIVE, the Schaeffler Hybrid (earlier post), and the combustion-engine oriented CO₂ncept-10%.

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Effenco hydraulic hybrid system targeted at heavy-duty vehicles with high power demand auxiliaries

January 18, 2012

The Effenco hydraulic hybrid system can drive the existing hydraulic pump for auxiliary equipment or assist the engine. Source: Effenco. Click to enlarge.

Montreal, Canada-based Effenco has developed a hydraulic hybrid system (HEAD, Hydraulic Equipment Assisting Device) specifically targeted to vehicles with high power demand auxiliaries, such as refuse trucks. The hybrid system comprises a regenerative braking system which includes variable displacement hydraulic pumps and a gearbox; a hydraulic accumulator; and a hydraulic motor.

Regenerative braking converts braking kinetic energy into a pressurized fluid stored in the accumulator; the system regenerates more than 80% of the braking energy under 22 mph (35 km/h). Rather than using the recovered energy to provide power for acceleration, the Effenco system can drive the vehicle’s existing hydraulic pump that supplies auxiliary equipment, or assist the combustion engine at idle.

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President’s Jobs Council recommends an “All-in” energy strategy; from fossil fuels and pipelines, to efficiency, renewables and vehicle electrification

In its 2011 year-end report, Road Map to Renewal, the President’s Council on Jobs and Competitiveness (Jobs Council) made a number of recommendations to create jobs in the short run and improve US competitiveness over the long term. Very broadly, the report lays out an agenda to “Invest in Our Future” through education and innovation, “Build on Our Strengths” in the critical sectors of energy and manufacturing, and “Play to Win” by making overdue tax and regulatory reforms to stay competitive.

More specifically, in the energy sector, the Jobs Council, which defined the challenge there as energy availability and security, recommended what it called an “All-in” strategy. The All-in strategy is intended to optimize all US energy resources while promoting efficiency and driving innovation and investment in new technologies such as renewables and vehicle electrification.

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Volvo to concentrate on hybrids and downsized engines for US

January 13, 2012

The XC60 Plug-in Hybrid Concept was introduced at the Detroit Auto Show. Click to enlarge.

Volvo Car Corporation will rely on a powertrain strategy based on its new downsized 4-cylinder VEA (Volvo Environmental Architecture) engine platform (earlier post) and hybrids for the US market, said John Maloney, recently appointed President of Volvo Cars, US, in an interview at the Detroit Auto Show.

The direction for the US was underscored by the unveiling of the XC60 gasoline-electric Plug-in Hybrid Concept at the show. (Earlier post.) The front wheels of the XC60 Plug-in Hybrid Concept are powered by a four-cylinder turbocharged gasoline engine from the forthcoming VEA family which produces 280 hp (209 kW) and maximum torque of 380 N·m (280 lb-ft). Power delivery to the front wheels comes via a newly developed eight-speed automatic transmission.

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Honda to offer two-motor plug-in hybrid system on 2013 Accord

January 10, 2012

Honda’s 2013 Accord, the 9^th generation of the model, which is due to go on sale this fall, will feature three all-new powertrains, including the first US application of both a 2.4-liter direct-injected engine and two-motor plug-in hybrid system (earlier post) from Honda’s suite of next-generation Earth Dreams powertrain technologies. (Earlier post.) In addition, the V-6 Accord will be the first Honda sedan to feature a new 6-speed automatic transmission.

Honda unveiled the Accord Coupe Concept at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, providing the first official glimpse of the new styling direction for the new generation. Honda says it expects both the Accord Sedan and the Accord Coupe models to achieve class-leading fuel economy ratings.

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Toyota introduces Prius c, reveals NS4 advanced plug-in hybrid concept targeted for 2015

The NS4 plug-in concept. Click to enlarge.

Toyota Motor Sales, USA introduced the Prius c (earlier post) and revealed the NS4 advanced plug-in hybrid concept at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

The Prius c (“c” representing “city”) is targeted at young buyers as a gateway vehicle to the brand and if designed to function as an urban-friendly vehicle with an engaging driving experience, hatchback utility, and a city cycle fuel economy rating of 53 mpg US (4.4 L/100km). The NS4 concept is a mid-sized dedicated plug-in hybrid, separate from the Prius family, and is one of Toyota’s concepts designed with future mobility requirements in mind for potential global market introduction by 2015.

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Acura introduces three new vehicles at Detroit show; two hybrid powertrains

January 09, 2012

ILX concept. Click to enlarge.

Acura unveiled three new vehicles at the North American International Auto Show, including a concept version of the ILX hybrid luxury compact sedan (which will offer Acura’s first production hybrid as a model version); the NSX Concept, which presages the direction for Acura’s next-generation supercar; and a prototype of the 2013 RDX crossover sport utility vehicle.

Acura also announced that the next-generation NSX will feature Acura’s new Sport Hybrid SH-AWD technology, is expected to debut in the next three years, and will be developed by an engineering team led by Honda R&D Americas, Inc., and manufactured in Ohio, at a yet-to-be-named facility.

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Lexus LF-LC hybrid 2+2 sport coupe design concept debuts at North American International Auto Show

The LF-LC concept. Click to enlarge.

Lexus unveiled a new design concept for a hybrid 2+2 sport coupe at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. Showcasing the future design direction for Lexus with an emphasis on a driver-focused vehicle, the front-engine, rear-wheel drive LF-LC features Advanced Lexus Hybrid Drive.

The concept car’s glass roof features a lightweight, cantilevered pillar with a glass-to-glass roof pillar—a first. Overall, the greenhouse design enhances driver visibility while adding to the sleek lines of the car.

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VW premieres Jetta Hybrid and E-Bugster concept with Combined Charging System; Blue-e-Motion electric drives to go into production units as early as 2013

E-Bugster. Click to enlarge.

Volkswagen staged two world premieres at the Detroit Auto Show: the new Jetta gasoline-electric Hybrid and the E-Bugster battery-electric concept derived from the Beetle. Volkswagen calls the complete electric drive unit featured in the E-Bugster “Blue-e-Motion”. As early as in 2013, drive systems under this name will go into production in vehicles such as the Golf.

E-Bugster. The central electric module of the E-Bugster weighs 80 kg. The energy for powering the 85 kW (114 hp) electric motor is stored in a 28.3 kWh lithium-ion battery pack housed in a space-saving location behind the front seats. Volkswagen says the range is 110 miles (180 km) in the city. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes 10.9 seconds.

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Ford introduces new Fusion midsize sedan with new hybrid and Energi plug-in hybrid versions

2013 Ford Fusion. Click to enlarge.

Ford unveiled the new 2013 Ford Fusion midsize sedan, with conventional gasoline engine; hybrid featuring a next-generation of Ford’s hybrid system; and plug-in hybrid versions at the Detroit Auto Show—the first production sedan to offer that trio of options. The new Fusion also points to the next Ford Mondeo for world markets.

In addition to the hybrid and Energi plug-in hybrid alternatives, Fusion offers a pair of EcoBoost four-cylinder engines (1.6L and 2.0L); a normally aspirated four-cylinder engine; an automatic start stop system; front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive applications, and a choice between automatic and manually shifted six-speed transmissions.

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A123 Systems supplying Li-ion batteries for new BMW ActiveHybrid 3 and ActiveHybrid 5 models

January 06, 2012

A123 Systems is providing Li-ion battery cells for the new BMW ActiveHybrid 3 (earlier post) and ActiveHybrid 5 (earlier post) models to be shown at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit next week. (BMW is doing the Li-ion pack work itself.) Both models, which use a similar powertrain, are due to go on sale in the US in 2012. A123 Systems had earlier said that it was involved in BMW production programs. (Earlier post.)

A123 is supplying its 32113 cylindrical power batteries for the applications. Designed for hybrid applications using the high-power M1Ultra electrode design, the cylindrical AHR32113 M1Ultra-B cell has a power density of more than 2700 W/kg and 6000 W/L, with nominal discharge power of 550 W. Nominal voltage is 3.3V, nominal capacity is 4.5Ah, and energy capacity is 14.6 Wh.

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Tata Motors shows CNG, diesel-electric hybrid and fuel cell concepts at Auto Expo 2012 in India, unveils 3 new production vehicles

Indigo Manza Hybrid. Click to enlarge.

Tata Motors showcased its alternate fuel technology capability at the New Delhi Auto Expo 2012 by displaying four concepts: the Tata Nano CNG; the Tata Indigo Manza diesel-electric hybrid; the Tata Starbus Fuel Cell (hydrogen); and the Tata Magic Iris CNG. The Tata Motors portfolio already includes a full electric vehicle—the Tata Indica Vista Electric Vehicle—and CNG-electric hybrid buses.

The company also unveiled three new production vehicles at the Auto Expo 2012: the Tata Safari Storme, the new generation Safari SUV; the Tata Ultra, the company’s new LCV & ICV range; and the Tata LPT 3723, India’s first 5-axle rigid truck as well. They will be commercially launched in the next financial year.

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KPMG survey: global auto execs expect slow growth in electrified vehicle sales; intensified investment coming in the face of current modest demand

January 05, 2012

Despite continued heavy investment by automakers in electric propulsion technologies, 65% of global automotive executives don’t expect sales of electrified vehicles (from full-hybrids to fuel cell electric vehicles) to exceed 15% of annual global auto sales before 2025, according to the 13^th annual global automotive survey conducted by KPMG LLP, the US audit, tax, and advisory firm.

In polling 200 C-level executives in the global automotive industry for the 2012 automotive survey, KPMG found that executives in the US and Western Europe expect even less consumer adoption, projecting e-vehicles will only account for 6-10% of global annual auto sales.

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A123 Systems to supply Li-ion battery packs to VIA Motors for extended-range electric trucks

Li-ion developer and manufacturer A123 Systems will supply complete lithium-ion battery packs to VIA Motors, an electric vehicle company building next-generation electrified trucks, vans and SUVs. To be integrated into VIA’s Extended-Range Electric Vehicle (E-REV) Powertrain (earlier post), A123’s 24 kWh battery packs combine with a 300 kW electric motor and an onboard generator to deliver an expected all-electric driving range of up to 40 miles.

At the North American International Auto Show next week, VIA Motors will showcase its full size E-REV Pickup Truck and introduce two new E-REV vehicles to its VTRUX line: a full size, four-wheel drive SUV, and a three-quarter-ton, full-size Cargo Van. All the VTRUX vehicles are equipped with the E-REV Powertrain and can drive 30 to 40 miles on lithium-ion batteries, then up to 400 miles using the onboard generator.

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Volvo to unveil XC60 gasoline-electric Plug-in Hybrid Concept at Detroit show; system targeted for US and China markets

January 04, 2012

XC60 Plug-in Hybrid Concept. Click to enlarge.

At the 2012 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Volvo Car Corporation will unveil the Volvo XC60 gasoline-electric Plug-in Hybrid Concept. In February 2011 at the Geneva Motor Show, Volvo introduced the diesel-electric V60 Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) to go on sale in Europe later this year. (Earlier post.) In today’s model range the Volvo S60, V60 and XC60 form one vehicle cluster. (Earlier post.)

To make the plug-in technology viable for buyers in the US and China, Volvo notes, it needs to feature a gasoline engine. Volvo will bring the gasoline plug-in technology to market in the US “in a couple of years”, said Stefan Jacoby, President and CEO of Volvo Car Corporation, although without saying which model will be the first to feature the system.

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Toyota launches Aqua compact hybrid in Japan; targeting 12,000 units per month in sales

December 26, 2011

The Aqua hybrid. Click to enlarge.

Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) launched the Aqua gasoline-electric compact hybrid—to be marketed as the Prius c in the US—in Japan. The Aqua features a small 1.5-liter Toyota Hybrid System II (THS II) with reduction gear, which achieves fuel efficiency of 35.4 km/L (83.3 mpg US, 2.8 L/100km) under the Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism’s (MLIT’s) JC08 test cycle and 40.0 km/L (94 mpg US, 2.5 L/100km) under the MLIT 10-15 test cycle.

Toyota’s starting price for the Aqua is ¥1.69 million (US$21,685); the monthly sales target for Japan is 12,000 units.

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DOE report finds some materials for EVs and other clean energy technologies at risk of supply disruptions in the short term; risks decreasing in medium- and long-term

December 24, 2011

Materials in clean energy technologies and components. Source: DOE. Click to enlarge.

Several clean energy technologies—including electric vehicles, wind turbines, PV thin films and fluorescent lighting—use materials at risk of supply disruptions in the short term, with risks generally decreasing in the medium- and long-terms, according to the newly released 2011 Critical Materials Strategy report from the US Department of Energy (DOE).

According to the report, supply challenges for five rare earth metals (REEs)—dysprosium, terbium, europium, neodymium and yttrium—were found to be critical in the short term (present–2015). These five REEs are used in magnets for wind turbines and electric vehicles or phosphors in energy-efficient lighting. Other elements—cerium, indium, lanthanum and tellurium—were found to be near-critical. Between the short term and the medium term (2015–2025), the importance to clean energy and supply risk shift for some materials.

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Report finds that total transportation energy demand in California in 2050 could be reduced 30% relative to 2005

December 23, 2011

Total transportation fuel use in California broken down by subsector and fuel type for each scenario: business-as-usual (BAU); plug-in electric vehicles (PEVs); and combined PEVs and fuel cell vehicles (FCVs). Source: Yang et al. Click to enlarge.

Without policy intervention, total travel demand in every transportation subsector in the state of California is projected to increase between 50 and 100% from 2005 to 2050 due to population growth and increasing travel demand per capita, with the most growth occurring in light-duty, heavy-duty and aviation sectors, according to a new report from the California Council on Science and Technology. The report, authored by Christopher Yang, Joan Ogden, Dan Sperling and Roland Hwang, was commissioned by the California Energy Commission (CEC).

However, total transportation energy demand in California could be reduced 30% relative to 2005 levels in 2050 through improving overall vehicle efficiency (which includes the use of advanced electric-drivetrains such as plug-in electric vehicles (PEVs) and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles (FCVs). Additional reductions in energy use would accrue if options to control travel demand were also included.

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Mercedes-Benz launching E 300 BlueTEC diesel and E 400 gasoline hybrids at Detroit Auto Show

December 21, 2011

E300 BlueTEC HYBRID. Click to enlarge.

Mercedes-Benz is is launching two new luxury hybrids in its core segment: the diesel-electric E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID, and the gasoline-electric E 400 HYBRID. The new hybrid models, based on a modular hybrid system, make their world premiere at the Detroit Auto Show and will appear on the market over the course of the year.

The E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID is initially planned to be launched on the European market, while the E 400 HYBRID will be made available on the US market first, followed by other countries such as Japan and China later.

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GM’s eAssist seeks to provide a cost-effective solution for improving fuel efficiency and driving dynamics

December 15, 2011

The components of the Malibu Eco eAssist system. The 15 kW motor generator is only slightly larger than current alternators, which, for this segment, would be about 2 kW. Click to enlarge.

General Motors is exploring the use of its light electrification system eAssist as a cost-effective means to improve both vehicle efficiency as well as driving dynamics. Initially introduced in the Buick line, eAssist has now made the jump to the Chevrolet line with its application in the new Malibu Eco (earlier post)—which will be the only version of the new Malibu initially available.

The eAssist applied in the Malibu, while not a “second-generation” of the eAssist in the sense of a new design, represents a substantive rebuild with improved components over earlier efforts, according to Daryl Wilson, eAssist Lead Development Engineer. Wilson and other members of the Malibu engineering team presented at a Malibu Eco media event.

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Ford begins production of 2012 Focus Electric at Michigan Assembly, C-MAX models on deck

December 14, 2011

Ford’s Michigan Assembly Plant is starting production of the 2012 Focus Electric (earlier post)—a five-passenger, battery-electric car Ford expects will achieve more than a 100 miles per gallon equivalent (MPGe) fuel economy rating. By comparison, the Nissan LEAF carries a 99 MPGe (combined) EPA rating, while the smaller i-MiEV carries a 112 MPGe (combined) rating. (1 gallon of gasoline=33.7 kWh).

A limited number of Focus Electrics will first be available in California and the New York/New Jersey areas. Availability of the Focus Electric will expand in 2012 to the remaining 15 launch markets as production ramps up.

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Chevrolet Malibu Eco with eAssist goes on sale in Q1 2012; estimated 37 mpg highway

December 12, 2011

Malibu Eco with eAssist. Click to enlarge.

The 2013 Chevrolet Malibu Eco with eAssit (earlier post) will be the first model of the new 2013 Malibu lineup to reach dealer showrooms in North America, starting in the first quarter of 2012. The 2013 Malibu Eco is the first Chevrolet vehicle to feature eAssist, GM’s light electrification system already introduced in the Buick lineup. Along with specific aerodynamic enhancements, it achieves 12% greater highway fuel economy than current models equipped with the 2.4L engine; GM estimates highway fuel economy of 37 mpg US (6.4 L/100km).

The eAssist system consists of a 32-cell, 0.5-kW lithium-ion battery, an electric motor-generator and next-generation Hydra-Matic 6T40 six-speed transmission. The system’s electric motor-generator is mounted to an Ecotec 2.4L four-cylinder engine, in place of the alternator, to provide both motor assist and electric-generating functions through a revised engine belt-drive system. The motor-generator is a high-performance, compact induction motor that is liquid-cooled for increased performance and efficiency.

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ExxonMobil Outlook projects hybrids and advanced vehicles to account for nearly 50% of cars globally by 2040; fuel demand for for personal vehicles to peak and decline, while commercial transportation demand rises 70%

December 11, 2011

Light duty vehicle fleet by type and average fuel efficiency. Source: ExxonMobil Outlook. Click to enlarge.

Exxon Mobil Corporation’s new The Outlook for Energy: A View to 2040, released last week, projects that global energy demand in 2040 will be about 30% higher than it was in 2010 as population grows to 9 billion and global GDP doubles. Growth is led by developing regions such as China, India, Africa and other emerging economies. This edition of the annual Outlook marks the first extension of the long-term energy forecast to 2040.

While oil will remain the most widely used fuel, overall energy demand will be reshaped by a continued shift toward less-carbon-intensive energy source as well as steep improvements in energy efficiency in areas such as transportation, where the expanded use of advanced and hybrid vehicles will help push average new-car fuel economy to 48 mpg (4.9 L/100 km) by 2040.

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Valeo acquires electric supercharger business from Controlled Power

December 06, 2011

As part of its strategy of developing solutions to reduce CO₂ emissions, Valeo has acquired the Variable Torque Enhancement System (VTES) (earlier post) business of UK automotive technology development company Controlled Power Technologies (CPT). VTES will be integrated into Valeo’s Powertrain Systems Business Group with immediate effect.

With this move, Valeo becomes the first automotive supplier to offer its customers a range of electric superchargers. Unlike exhaust-driven turbochargers, electric superchargers are driven by an electric motor. This technology, which leverages a switched reluctance motor with very low inertia, responds much more quickly than a conventional turbocharger.

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VW stages world premiere of Cross Coupé AWD plug-in hybrid compact SUV at Tokyo show

November 30, 2011

Cross Coupé plug-in hybrid concept. Click to enlarge.

At the Tokyo Motor Show, Volkswagen is showcasing its concept of an SUV of the future: the Cross Coupé all-wheel-drive (AWD) plug-in hybrid vehicle (PHEV) shows how Volkswagen designers could envisage a crossover between a four-door coupé and a compact SUV.

The Cross Coupé concept is based on Volkswagen’s new modular transverse matrix (MQB, modularen Querbaukasten) platform—the first such model to be publicly shown. (In 2010, Volkswagen said that the MQB would be available in 2012, the technical foundation for more than 30 models in the group A0, A and B segments.) The four-seat SUV is powered by two electric motors, one front and one rear, and a direct injection turbo gasoline engine (TSI); the all-electric range is up to 45 kilometers (28 miles).

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Honda outlines technology for fuel efficiency push; engines, transmissions, hybrid, plug-in hybrid and electric powertrains

Newly developed 2.4L-class gasoline engine. Click to enlarge.

In Tokyo, Honda Motor Co., Ltd. outlined its plans for next-generation automotive technology—which it is labeling “Earth Dreams Technology”—comprising a series of measures to improve the efficiency of gasoline and diesel engines, transmissions, hybrid and plug-in hybrid systems and electric powertrains.

Through applications of the new technology first in the mini-vehicle N BOX—the first model of the new mini-vehicle N Series—and gradually in other vehicle models, Honda is targeting top-of-industry fuel efficiency for every category within three years, while simultaneously setting a timeline of 2020 to reduce by 30% CO₂ emissions for all products sold worldwide, relative to emission figures for 2000.

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Toyota starts taking orders for soon-to-be-launched Prius PHV plug-in hybrid in Japan; targeting 35,000-40,000 units per year

November 29, 2011

Prius PHV S. Click to enlarge.

Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) has begun taking orders through Toyota dealers around Japan for the Prius PHV (plug-in hybrid). (Earlier post.) TMC will launch the vehicle in Japan on 30 January 2012. The Prius PHV will be sold by all Toyota, Toyopet, Toyota Corolla and Netz dealers in Japan; the sales target in Japan is 35,000 to 40,000 units per year.

With its new high-capacity lithium-ion battery fully charged, the Prius PHV’s EV-mode cruising range is 26.4 km (16.4 miles), and PHV fuel efficiency is 61.0 km/L (143 mpg US, 1.64 L/100km), calculated from combined EV and HV driving modes. The vehicle’s electric power consumption rate is 8.74 km/kWh. All cruising range and fuel efficiency figures here are based on the JC08 Japanese test cycle and verified by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism of Japan (MLIT).

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Mazda to begin deployment of i-ELOOP ultracapacitor-based regenerative braking system for passenger vehicles in 2012

November 25, 2011

Mazda’s ‘i-ELOOP’ regenerative braking system. Click to enlarge.

Mazda Motor Corporation has developed the first production passenger vehicle regenerative braking system that uses an ultracapacitor. The system, which Mazda calls ‘i-ELOOP’, will begin to appear in Mazda’s vehicles in 2012. In real-world driving conditions with frequent acceleration and braking, i-ELOOP improves fuel economy in stop-and-go driving conditions by approximately 10%, according to the company.

Compared to batteries, ultracapacitors can be charged and discharged rapidly and feature a very long cycle life. i-ELOOP converts the vehicle’s kinetic energy into electricity as it decelerates, and uses the electricity to power the climate control, audio system and numerous other electrical components.

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NRC releases second report on 21st Century Truck Partnership

November 23, 2011

The National Research Council (NRC) last week released a pre-publication version of its second report reviewing the 21^st Century Truck Partnership (21CTP). The 21CTP is a cooperative research and development (R&D) partnership including four federal agencies—the US Department of Energy (DOE), US Department of Transportation (DOT), US Department of Defense (DOD), and the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)—and 15 industrial partners.

The purpose of the 21CTP is to reduce fuel consumption and emissions; increase heavy-duty vehicle safety; and support research, development, and demonstration to initiate commercially viable products and systems. This is the NRC’s second report on the topic and it includes the committee’s review of the Partnership as a whole, its major areas of focus, 21CTP’s management and priority setting, efficient operations, and the new SuperTruck program.

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Toyota unveiling new hydrogen fuel cell concept vehicle indicative of 2015 production model at Tokyo Motor Show; Aqua hybrid and FT-EV III

November 15, 2011

The FCV-R concept. Click to enlarge.

Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) will stage the world premiere of the FCV-R, a practical sedan-type next-generation hydrogen fuel-cell concept vehicle, at the upcoming Tokyo Motor Show. Toyota calls this concept model “a highly practical fuel-cell vehicle” that is planned for launch in about 2015.

With the fuel-cell unit located beneath the specially designed body, the vehicle can accommodate up to four passengers and offers what Toyota calls “impressive” luggage space. The fuel cell system, along with a 70 MPa high-pressure hydrogen tank, has been improved to provide a cruising distance of approximately 700 km (435 miles) or more under the JC08 test cycle, according to TMC.

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SunLine Transit unveils 7th generation hydrogen-fueled bus

The new American Fuel Cell Bus. Click to enlarge.

Canada-based Ballard Power Systems has, together with consortium partners BAE Systems and ElDorado National (California) Inc., successfully deployed a “Buy America”-compliant, fuel cell bus for SunLine Transit Agency in Palm Springs, CA. This marks the 7^th generation of hydrogen buses deployed by SunLine, which has pursued an aggressive strategy of implementing clean technologies into its fleet.

“Buy America” certification requires 60% US manufacturing content; the new American Fuel Cell Bus (AFCB) features more than 90% US-made components.

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SEAT unveils first all-electric car and PHEV

November 11, 2011

the Altea XL Electric and the Leon TwinDrive Ecomotive vehicles. Click to enlarge.

SEAT, a member of the Volkswagen Group, is unveiling the prototype Altea XL Electric Ecomotive as well as the prototype Leon TwinDrive Ecomotive, a plug-in hybrid. SEAT envisages the launch of its first electric plug-in hybrid car in 2015, to be followed a year later by an all-electric vehicle.

The Altea XL Electric Ecomotive features an 85 kW motor with 270 N·m of torque and a limited top speed of 135 km/h (84 mph). The batteries are located under the rear seats and in the trunk; there is no intrusion into the passenger compartment. When the electric Altea XL is parked in the sun, rooftop photovoltaic cells recirculate fresh air inside the passenger compartment, reducing the energy needed afterwards by the climate control system.

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Honda to show 7 electromotive concept models at Tokyo show

November 10, 2011

AC-X concept plug-in hybrid. Click to enlarge.

Honda Motor Co., Ltd. will display a lineup of seven next-generation electromotive concept models at the upcoming Tokyo Motor Show, including two-, three- and four-wheeled commuter vehicles designed for future cities; mid-to-long distance commuters; and sporty models.

Further, as a part of “Smart Mobility City 2011”, a themed project the Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association, Inc. (JAMA) will hold at the motor show venue, Honda will showcase the FCX Clarity advanced fuel cell electric vehicle, EV-neo electric scooter, EV-MONPAL electric cart, as well as the Honda Smart Home System which features several Honda-developed energy production technologies, including a gas engine cogeneration unit and a solar powered system to reduce household and mobility CO₂ emissions. The progress Honda has been making in testing program of these technologies also will be showcased.

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Mitsubishi Motors premiering new fuel-efficient Mirage and Concept PX-MiEV II plug-in hybrid; smart house

Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) will be showing a total of 15 vehicles at the upcoming 42^nd Tokyo Motor Show, 30 November through 11 December. Two MMC cars will make their world premiere at the show: the fuel-efficient Mirage and the Concept PX-MiEV II plug-in hybrid electric vehicles.

Mirage. The Mirage’s design focused on compactness, affordability, and high fuel efficiency in order to fit the needs of emerging markets as an affordable entry-level model as well as needs of advanced markets for fuel efficiency and low-CO₂ emissions. In addition, the Mirage features good maneuverability and easy drivability inherent to a compact car while also providing a comfortable interior space for five adults

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HyBoost concept achieving close to Prius-level CO2 emissions; aggressive downsizing with advanced boosting and micro-hybrid system

November 01, 2011

HyBoost offers comparable performance to the conventional current 2.0L variant but with fuel economy of a strong hybrid. Click to enlarge.

The HyBoost demonstrator being developed by Ricardo and its partners (earlier post) is achieving comparable performance to the conventional 2.0L version of its vehicle (a 2009 Ford Focus) but with fuel economy and CO₂ emissions approaching those of a Prius, according to David Boggs, Ricardo Technical Specialist, Engines, in a presentation at the recent 2011 Directions in Engine-Efficiency and Emissions Research Conference (DEER) hosted by the Department of Energy in Detroit.

HyBoost achieves this by combining aggressive 50% downsizing of the engine with an electric supercharger for transient low-speed performance, and a micro-hybrid stop-start and energy recuperation systems, Boggs said.

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GM Korea introduces Alpheon eAssist; 25% improvement in fuel economy

October 28, 2011

Alpheon eAssist Click to enlarge.

GM Korea introduced the Alpheon eAssist, the first hybrid vehicle from the company and the first hybrid vehicle in its segment in Korea. The new Alpheon eAssist, which will go on sale in November, offers improved fuel economy of 25% and reduced CO₂ emissions of 22% compared with the standard Alpheon model.

Like the light electrification powertrain of the Buick LaCrosse upon which it is based, the Alpheon eAssist features a 2.4-liter spark ignition direct injection (SIDI) engine (max. 179 hp at 6,700 rpm; 233 N·m torque) supplemented by a small Li-ion battery pack and a 17.6-kW, 63.6 N·m electric motor generator. (General Motors launched the Buick LaCrosse with eAssist in China on 25 August. Earlier post.)

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Honda to begin sales of refreshed Insight hybrid and new Freed hybrids in Japan; new Insight Exclusive with 1.5-liter engine joins lineup

October 27, 2011

The Insight Exclusive. Click to enlarge.

Honda Motor Co., Ltd. introduced the newly refreshed Insight hybrid model, accompanied by the new Insight Exclusive model featuring a 1.5-liter engine. Honda will begin sales of both hybrid models at dealerships across Japan on 11 November. Honda also will begin sales of the all-new Freed Hybrid minivan and Freed Spike Hybrid tall wagon at dealerships across Japan on 28 October. The Freed Hybrid and Freed Spike Hybrid will be Japan’s first 5-number class (i.e., compact size) minivan and tall wagon hybrid vehicles.

The monthly combined sales target for the Insight and Insight Exclusive is 1,500 units, with prices (before consumption tax) starting at ¥1,838,096 (US$24,221) for the Insight and ¥1,980,953 (US$26,103) for the Insight Exclusive. The monthly sales target for the Freed series in Japan is 10,000 units, with prices starting at ¥2,046,667 (US$26,969). Honda said that in Japan, more than one-third of registered Honda automobiles are hybrids.

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Fuso develops heavy-duty hybrid truck; 10% increase in fuel economy compared to conventional diesels

October 26, 2011

Commercial vehicle manufacturer Fuso, a member of the Daimler group, has introduced a heavy-duty hybrid truck in Japan. The new vehicle concept will have its show premiere at the Tokyo Motor Show from 30 November to 11 December 2012. First tests of the “Super Great HEV” have shown about a 10% improvement in fuel economy over conventional diesel-only vehicles.

The newly developed parallel hybrid heavy-duty truck is based on the technology of the Canter Eco Hybrid, around 1,200 units of which have been sold since it was introduced in 2006. The Fuso Super Great HEV now being presented features a conventional diesel engine; electric motor/generator; Li-ion battery pack; and related control software. Power to drive the vehicle comes from the vehicle's electric motor, the diesel engine or both. Fuel efficiency and emissions reduction are achieved by using them singly or in combination with each other according to driving conditions. When slowing down or braking, the electric motor functions as a generator to brake the vehicle. The generator converts brake energy into electric energy and returns it to the lithium-ion battery.

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Study concludes that sugar cane-based biorefineries producing ethanol and electricity could power a global auto fleet of hybrids and EVs using only 4% of available cropland

October 24, 2011

Number of cars (world and US), amount of gasoline consumed, amount of ethanol equivalent required for a neat ethanol fleet, ethanol and electricity to power hybrid fleet, and sugar cane area for hybrid fleet. Credit: ACS, Pacca and Moreira. Click to enlarge.

If sugar cane is used as the feedstock to produce ethanol and electricity for the same final use—fueling vehicles for personal mobility—only 4% of the world’s available cropland area would be sufficient to produce fuels that would power a global car fleet consisting of hybrids and electric vehicles, according to a new study by Sergio Pacca and Jose Moreira at the University of Sao Paolo, Brazil.

In their study, they assess the benefits and drawbacks of the joint production in a sugar cane-based biorefinery—using technology that is currently available and cost-competitive—of ethanol and electricity for fueling privately-owned automobiles. Their findings indicate that the amount of land required to power current automobile needs is less than what is typically stated; their analysis also shows that the harvested energy density of sugar cane is 306 GJ/ha/yr—1.7 times the value usually reported in the literature for biofuels.

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Nissan announces Green Program 2016; targeting cumulative sales of 1.5M zero-emission vehicles across Alliance; new fuel cell electric vehicle with Daimler, new Nissan PHEV

Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. announced its new six-year environmental plan, Nissan Green Program 2016 (NGP 2016). This new plan will focus on three areas: reduction of carbon footprint; shift to renewable energy; and an increase in the diversity of resources used by Nissan. The company said it will spend 70% of its annual research and advanced engineering budget on environmental technologies.

Nissan Green Program 2016, the company’s third environmental mid-term plan, aims to deliver the following by the end of fiscal year 2016:

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Toyota establishing new Energy Saving and New Energy Vehicle Technical Center in China; development group for production of China-made hybrid vehicles

October 22, 2011

Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) will establish the “Energy Saving and New Energy Vehicle Technical Center” at its new Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (China) Co., Ltd. (TMEC) R&D Center in the Changshu Southeast Economic Development Zone in Changshu, China. Toyota plans an overall investment of US$689 million in TMEC.

TMEC will work to strengthen automobile-manufacturing R&D in China by cooperating with R&D centers established at its China joint-venture companies with China FAW Group Corporation (FAW) and Guangzhou Automobile Group Co., Ltd (GAC). Starting in 2013, when its major facilities are to be completed, TMEC will support vehicle development carried out by Toyota joint-venture companies in China, through the development of engines for vehicles manufactured at those companies, the testing and evaluation of vehicles at its large-scale test course and the thorough quality verification of vehicles for launch in the Chinese market.

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DOE seeking input on analysis methodology and assumption for estimating total cost of ownership of future advanced vehicle technologies

October 19, 2011

DOE analysis of ownership costs for future mid-size car. Error bands indicate technology uncertainties (red solid lines) and fuel price uncertainties (green dashed lines).Click to enlarge.

The US Department of Energy (DOE) has issued a Request for Information (RFI) (DE-FOA-0000592) seeking input from the public on its analysis methodology and assumptions used for estimating the total cost of ownership (TCO) of various advanced vehicle technologies within DOE’s portfolio that have the potential to significantly reduce greenhouse gas GHG) emissions and petroleum consumption.

The information collected by this Request for Information will be used for internal DOE analysis, including assisting DOE in estimating the benefits of its Research, Development and Demonstration (RD&D) portfolio. Interested parties to this RFI might include, but are not limited to: automobile technology developers or manufacturers; components suppliers (e.g., suppliers of batteries, fuel cells, motors, power electronics, etc.); fuels suppliers; electric utilities; independent power producers; industrial gas companies; state and local government; research laboratories; academics; and other public, private, or non-profit entities.

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XL Hybrids conducting pilot tests of hybrid electric conversion systems for Class 1-3 commercial vans and trucks (updated)

October 17, 2011

XL Hybrids, Inc., a company working with a hybrid electric conversion system for Class 1 through 3 commercial vans and trucks (earlier post), is conducting customer pilot tests of its system. The tests will begin with the GM 2500 Series vans, including the Chevy Express and GMC Savana vans. The hybrid powertrain can reduce fuel consumption and carbon dioxide emissions by up to 20% for urban fleets, according to the company.

XL Hybrids ~~has~~ had earlier partnered with Ashwoods Automotive in the UK, developers of a hybrid conversion system. (Earlier post.) (Update: that partnership is no longer in effect, according to a company spokesperson.) The XL Hybrids powertrain consists of a 2 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, a 40 kW (53 hp) electric motor and a proprietary hybrid control system that operate seamlessly with the original manufacturer’s 4.8L V8 internal combustion engine and automatic transmission.

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UC Riverside team receives $2M to evaluate emission reduction benefits of hybrid bulldozer and excavator

Purported benefits of the Caterpillar D7E Electric Drive Track-Type Tractor. Click to enlarge.

Scientists at the University of California, Riverside’s Center for Environmental Research and Technology have received a $2-million contract for a first-of-its-kind study of hybrid construction vehicles. The two-year project, which is being funded by the California Air Resources Board, will allow researchers to evaluate the emission reduction benefits of two commercially available hybrid construction vehicles: a Caterpillar bulldozer (earlier post) and a Komatsu hydraulic excavator (earlier post).

Little is known about the potential benefits of hybrid technologies for construction equipment because of their unique and diverse duty cycles when used. Manufacturers are saying the hybrid vehicles reduce fuel needs by 20% and cut emissions by 30%, said Kent Johnson, an assistant research engineer at the Center for Environmental Research and Technology and the principal investigator on the project.

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New BMW 3 Series includes a new 4-cylinder TwinPower Turbo, 8-speed automatic and start-stop; ActiveHybrid 3 model in 2012

October 14, 2011

BMW revealed first details of the new sixth-generation 3 Series; the 3 Series accounts for one-fifth of the company’s global sales. The sixth generation of the 3 Series is larger than its predecessor, with a wide track (front + 37 mm, rear + 47 mm), increased length (+ 93 mm) and augmented wheelbase (+ 50 mm). Despite the larger dimensions, the new car has a curb weight 40 kilograms (88 lb) below that of its predecessor.

BMW is applying a range of technologies to reduce fuel consumption and emissions. On the most-efficient end of the scale, the BMW 320d EfficientDynamics Edition, with peak output of 120 kW/163 hp, offers average fuel consumption in the EU driving cycle of 4.1 l/100 km (57 mpg US) and CO₂ emissions of 109 g/km. BMW will add further engines to the line-up in 2012, when the BMW ActiveHybrid 3 (using a powertrain similar to that of the ActiveHybrid 5, earlier post) will also make its premiere.

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Nissan unveils next-generation XTRONIC CVT, new 1-motor, 2-clutch FWD hybrid system, new fuel cell stack

October 13, 2011

The new XTRONIC CVT features a sub planetary gear to enable a higher ratio coverage. Click to enlarge.

At a technical briefing in Yokohama, Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. unveiled its new generation XTRONIC CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) for 2.0 to 3.5-liter engine vehicles as well as a new front-wheel-drive parallel hybrid system using the one-motor, two-clutch design earlier applied in the rear-wheel drive Infiniti M35 (earlier post).

The company also released its Next Generation Fuel Cell Stack (2011 Model) for Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEV). Through improvements to the MEA (Membrane Electrode Assembly) and the separator flow path, Nissan significantly improved the power density of the stack to 2.5 times greater than its 2005 model, achieving 2.5 kW per liter—the world’s best among auto manufacturers, Nissan said.

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ECOtality awarded $26.4 Million for advanced vehicle testing & evaluation by DOE

October 06, 2011

ECOtality, Inc. subsidiary ECOtality North America has been awarded a $26.4-million dollar contract by the US Department of Energy (DOE) to conduct the DOE’s Advanced Vehicle Testing and Evaluation (AVTE) project. The award is for a 5-year term to conduct vehicle evaluations with the Department of Energy’s Advanced Vehicle Testing Activity (AVTA).

The primary goal of the Advanced Vehicle Testing and Evaluation project is to provide key data for technology modeling, and research and development programs, by benchmarking and validating the performance of light-, medium-, and heavy-duty vehicles.

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Ford offering 1.6L and 2.0L EcoBoost engines in new Escape; next generation of Escape hybrid powertrain moves to the C-MAX exclusively

October 04, 2011

The new Ford Escape, slated for reveal next month at the Los Angeles Auto Show, features a powertrain lineup with three four-cylinder options, including the new 1.6- and 2.0-liter EcoBoost engines (earlier post) and a 2.5-liter Ti-VCT four-cylinder. The Escape will be Ford’s first SUV to be available with two fuel-efficient EcoBoost engines, delivering class-leading fuel economy and performance.

Ford is also moving the Escape hybrid powertrain exclusively over to the C-MAX platform; i.e., the Escape Hybrid is going away. C-MAX is a dedicated hybrid with two versions (conventional hybrid and plug-in hybrid electric), and with the same 5 passenger seating, replaces the Escape Hybrid in the Ford lineup.

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BAE Systems introduces HybriDrive series hybrid system for articulated buses

October 03, 2011

HybriDrive traction motor. Click to enlarge.

BAE Systems launched its HybriDrive series propulsion system for articulated buses at the American Public Transportation Association Annual Meeting & Expo in New Orleans, La. The HDS 300 system—the latest member of BAE Systems’ HybriDrive family—will support higher capacity buses with gross vehicle weight ratings of up to 63,000 lbs (28,576 kg).

The HDS 300 features the same benefits as its HDS 200 counterpart, now in service in the US and Canada. The integrated hybrid power system maximizes a fleet owner’s operational budget due to its superior efficiency and low maintenance costs. The system can be purchased as a standard package or with electrified accessories which further increase the system’s efficiency by reducing energy demands on the engine.

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Hyundai and Kia select Infineon HybridPACK 1 power module for current hybrid vehicle generations

October 02, 2011

Infineon Technologies AG announced that Hyundai Motor Company and Kia Motors Corporation have selected Infineon as supplier of power modules for their current hybrid car generations, the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid and Kia Optima. Hyundai and Kia teamed up with Infineon on the hybrid powertrain design including the Infineon HybridPACK 1 power module and the related control electronics as part of the electric motor inverter.

The HybridPACK 1 is a power module designed for mild hybrid applications for a power range up to 30 kW. Designed for a junction operation temperature at 150 °C, the module accommodates a six-pack configuration of 3^rd generation Trench-Field-Stop IGBT (Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistor) and matching emitter controlled diodes and is rated up to 400A/650V.

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BMW ActiveHybrid 5 to arrive in US showrooms in March 2012

September 30, 2011

The BMW ActiveHybrid 5. Click to enlarge.

BMW’s newest hybrid, the BMW ActiveHybrid 5, will arrive in US showrooms in March 2012. BMW unveiled the Concept version of the 5 Series ActiveHybrid at the Geneva Motor Show in 2010. (Earlier post.)

Based on the BMW 535i Sedan, the ActiveHybrid 5 brings together BMW’s 3.0-liter TwinPower Turbo inline six-cylinder engine, an electric drive system and an eight-speed automatic transmission for the first time. The latest generation of BMW ActiveHybrid technology also adds controlled energy management to the mix. The drive system generates combined output of 335 hp (DIN) (250 kW) a with maximum torque of 330 lb-ft (447 N·m); allows the car to be driven on electric power alone up to 37 mph (60 km/h); and accelerates the BMW ActiveHybrid 5 from 0 to 60 mph in 5.7 seconds (preliminary).

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CPT developing 48-volt electric supercharger for micro-mild hybrids

September 29, 2011

Controlled Power Technologies (CPT) is developing a 48-volt version of its 12 volt electric supercharger based on its variable torque enhancement system known as VTES. (Earlier post.) The higher-voltage variant will support moves by European vehicle manufacturers announced earlier this year to introduce 48 volt passenger vehicle power networks to help meet the requirement for lower fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions.

At 48 volts, a VTES electric supercharger will transform 7kW of battery power into a highly boosted charge of air for downsized gasoline and diesel engines. Unlike crankshaft-driven superchargers and exhaust-gas-driven turbochargers, an electric supercharger is mechanically decoupled from the engine, meaning it can deliver the air almost instantaneously into the engine—spinning up to 70,000 rpm in less than a third of a second.

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Inaugural Quadrennial Technology Review report concludes DOE is underinvested in transport; greatest efforts to go to electrification

September 28, 2011

The QTR frames 6 strategies to adress US energy challenges. Source: QTR. Click to enlarge.

The US Department of Energy released its inaugural Quadrennial Technology Review report (DOE-QTR)—an assessment of the Department’s energy technology research and development portfolios. The DOE-QTR establishes a framework for the Department’s energy technology activities, including principles it can use to prioritize its technology research and development.

The DOE-QTR defines six key strategies: increase vehicle efficiency; electrification of the light duty fleet; deploy alternative fuels; increase building and industrial efficiency; modernize the electrical grid; and deploy clean electricity. Broad findings of the DOE-QTR include:

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CMU study finds that HEVs and PHEVs with small battery packs offer more emissions and oil displacement benefits per dollar spent than large pack PHEVs and BEVs; policy implications

September 27, 2011

Value of life-cycle emissions externality damages and oil premium costs from vehicles in 2010 $. Michalek et al. Click to enlarge.

Strategies to promote adoption of hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) with small battery packs offer more social benefits (i.e., air emissions and oil displacement benefits) in the near term per dollar spent than PHEVs and battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) with large battery packs providing longer electric range, according to a new study by Carnegie Mellon University’s Jeremy J. Michalek and colleagues.

A paper presenting the results of the group’s latest year-long study on the lifecycle air emissions and oil displacement benefits of plug-in vehicles was published this week in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

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Prius v first member of expanded family to go on sale in US; 58% more cargo space than original Prius, with 42 mpg combined

September 19, 2011

Toyota expects Prius v to account for about 15% (incremental) of conventional Prius sales. Click to enlarge.

The new Prius v (earlier post)—the first of three coming members of the Prius family joining the original Prius in the US—will go on sale here at the end of next month. (The other two are the Prius Plug-in hybrid (earlier post) and the Prius c.)

The Prius v uses essentially the same Hybrid Synergy Drive system as the current third-generation Prius introduced in 2010, but will offer 58% more cargo space than the original Prius—resulting in more cargo space than 80% of all small SUVs, noted Toyota Division Group Vice President and General Manager Bob Carter at a media preview of the Prius family (minus the c). Despite the new spaciousness, the Prius v will deliver estimated EPA fuel economy ratings of 44 mpg city, 40 mpg highway and 42 mpg combined (5.35, 5.88 and 5.6 L/100km, respectively).

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Toyota introduces 2012 Prius Plug-in Hybrid

September 17, 2011

2012 Prius Plug-in hybrid. Click to enlarge.

Toyota introduced the production Prius Plug-in Hybrid at the Green Drive Expo in Richmond, CA, as the newest member of the expanding Prius Family. With a starting base price of $32,000 (before rebates), the production Prius Plug-in features a 4.4 kWh Li-ion pack enabling an electric range of up to 15 miles (24 km) at speeds of up to 62 mph (100 km/h), according to Toyota. (The advanced grade plug-in Prius carries a base price of $39,525.)

With seating for five, the 2012 Prius Plug-in hybrid is expected to achieve a manufacturer-estimated 87 mpge (miles per gallon equivalent) in combined driving and 49 mpg in hybrid mode, or 2.7 L/100km equivalent and 4.8 L/100km, respectively. The production plug-in hybrid has a number of key changes from the 125 prototype demo units that were deployed in the field for testing and customer feedback. Toyota applied experience from that test phase, along with input from participants, to finalize engineering and improve features for the production model. Changes include:

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BRABUS, Boston-Power and Protean Electric team to deliver high-performance EV and hybrid cars based on Mercedes-Benz E-Class

September 14, 2011

The BRABUS 4WD Full Electric. Click to enlarge.

Boston-Power, Inc. (earlier post) and Protean Electric (earlier post) are working together to provide the lithium-ion battery systems and electric in-wheel motor solutions for two new advanced BRABUS vehicles based on the Mercedes-Benz E-Class. (Protean CEO Bob Purcell is also on Boston-Power’s Board of Directors.) BRABUS, the largest independent automobile tuner in the world and manufacturer of exclusive high-performance automobiles, unveiled the new high-performance vehicles at the Frankfurt Auto Show.

The first BRABUS sedan based on the Mercedes-Benz E-Class is the 4WD Full Electric. It features an all-new EV system developed to demonstrate a peak combined 320 kW and 2,350 lb-ft (3,200 N·m) torque from pure electric power using four direct-drive Protean Electric motors, one in each wheel. A 56-kWh lithium-ion battery pack provides an operating range of up to 350 kilometers (217 miles). There are plans for a small-series production run of this automobile.

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Volvo Car outlines technological future: new Scalable Platform Architecture and focus on four-cylinder engines; Concept You

September 13, 2011

The new Concept You show car is an example of coming designs based on the SPA. Click to enlarge.

Volvo Car Corporation is building its technological future is based on two in-house developed strategies: a scalable vehicle architecture which in principle means that most Volvo models can be built on the same production line irrespective of vehicle size and complexity; and a new engine range consisting solely of four-cylinder gasoline and diesel engines. (Earlier post.)

The innovation program also includes a new 8-speed automatic transmission and, later in 2011, testing of a new Flywheel KERS (Kinetic Energy Recovery System) will start on public roads (earlier post).

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Mercedes-Benz presenting Concept B-Class E-CELL Plus extended-range electric vehicle

The Concept B-Class E-CELL PLUS. Click to enlarge.

Mercedes-Benz is presenting its first electric vehicle with Range Extender at the 2011 Frankfurt International Motor Show: the Concept B-Class E-CELL PLUS. Equipped with a Li-ion battery pack from Deutsche Accumotive (a joint venture of Daimler and Evonik), the E-CELL PLUS has a battery-only range of up to 100 km (62 miles). A 50 kW (67 hp), 1.0-liter three-cylinder turbocharged gasoline engine range extender delivers a total range of up to 600 km (373 miles).

The electric drive generates a peak power output of 100 kW and a continuous output of 70 kW. At low speeds, the engine charges the battery via a generator. At higher speeds—e.g., on prolonged highway stretches—it additionally serves as a driving engine, acting on the front wheels together with the electric motor via a newly developed automatic transmission. In combined driving mode the vehicle emits 32 grams of CO₂ per kilometer.

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Toyota introduces new 2013 Lexus GS 450h hybrid with improved hybrid powertrain at Frankfurt Motor Show

September 12, 2011

2013 Lexus GS 450h. Click to enlarge.

Lexus has introduced its all-new 2013 GS 450h hybrid at the Frankfurt motor show. The hybrid version of the 2013 GS 350 incorporates improvements to its hybrid powertrain and is equipped with a second generation Lexus Hybrid Drive system. GS 450h engineers have aimed for reductions in fuel consumption and emissions without sacrificing performance.

The Lexus Hybrid Drive system features an Atkinson cycle 3.5-liter V6 engine mated to a compact, high-output, water-cooled permanent magnet electric motor. The two powerplants drive the rear wheels both independently and in tandem, as needed. In addition to the gasoline engine and electric motor, the new GS 450h’s hybrid drive system includes a generator; a high-performance nickel-metal hydride battery; a power split device which, via planetary reduction gears, combines and re-allocates power from the engine, electric motor and generator according to operational requirements; and a compact power control unit to govern the high speed interaction of the system components.

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California Energy Commission adopts 3rd annual transportation energy Investment Plan; $100M for clean fuels and technologies

September 09, 2011

The California Energy Commission (CEC) has unanimously adopted the state’s third annual transportation energy Investment Plan to help change the types of vehicles Californians drive and the fuels they use. The latest Investment Plan for the Energy Commission’s Alternative and Renewable Fuel and Vehicle Technology Program prioritizes $100 million in state funds to leverage funding and investments from federal agencies, research institutions, private investors, auto manufacturers and other stakeholders.

Assembly Bill 118 (Núñez, Chapter 750, Statutes of 2007) authorized the Energy Commission to provide approximately $100 million annually over seven years to encourage new fuels and technologies. Funding comes from such sources as vehicle registrations, vessel registrations, identification plates, and smog abatement fees. The Energy Commission’s first investment plan combined $176 million in funds from fiscal years 2008-2009 and 2009-2010. The second investment plan, for fiscal year 2010-2011, provided $83 million.

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HyBoost demonstrator debuts at LCV2011; 50% by swept volume downsizing with low-cost electrification

September 07, 2011

HyBoost demonstrator. Click to enlarge.

The HyBoost project vehicle was revealed for the first time today at the Cenex Low Carbon Vehicle 2011 event hosted at Rockingham, UK, demonstrating a combination of high-impact, low-cost electrical systems which offer the prospect of radical engine downsizing using electric supercharger and energy capture and storage technologies within an otherwise conventional gasoline powertrain architecture. (Earlier post.)

The HyBoost project has been led by Ricardo in partnership with Controlled Power Technologies, the European Advanced Lead Acid Battery Consortium, Ford, Imperial College London, and Valeo, with co-funding from the UK government-backed Technology Strategy Board.

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Flywheel hybrid research vehicle delivers up to 22.4% fuel economy improvement in ARTEMIS cycles

FHSPV flywheel CVT system layout. Click to enlarge.

A research vehicle fitted with a flywheel hybrid system including stop-start has demonstrated improvements in fuel economy of up to 22.4% in the new European ARTEMIS test cycles. Developed by a consortium of British companies as part of the Government-supported Flywheel Hybrid System for Premium Vehicles (FHSPV) program, the mechanically-driven flywheel system delivers up to 80 bhp (82 PS, 60 kW) of recovered energy from a self-contained hybrid module. (Earlier post.)

The new Common ARTEMIS Driving Cycles (CADC), developed within the European research project ARTEMIS (Assessment and reliability of transport emission models and inventory systems), include three real-world driving cycles (urban, rural road and motorway) designed to be representative of the actual conditions of vehicle usage and driving and to reproduce the diversity of the observed driving conditions. In the industry-standard NEDC cycle, the flywheel hybrid including stop-start achieved an 11.9% improvement.

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Jaguar provides some details on its concept hybrid C-X16 to be introduced at Frankfurt

The concept hybrid C-X16. Click to enlarge.

Jaguar has released details of the C-X16 concept ahead of its world debut at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show. The two-seater concept hybrid features a next-generation supercharged 3.0L V6 gasoline engine producing 380 PS (375 hp, 280 kW) and 332 lb-ft (450 N·m) of torque and a Formula 1-inspired hybrid boost system with a steering-wheel-mounted button for on-demand acceleration.

Mounted in an aluminum chassis structure, the powertrain delivers 0-62 mph acceleration in 4.4 seconds, a top speed of 186 mph (299 km/h) and acceleration from 50-75 mph of 2.1 seconds. The C-X16 is also able to travel at speeds of up to 50 mph (80.5 km/h) under electric power alone and has CO₂ emissions of 165 g/km.

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Pike Research forecasts global hybrid medium- and heavy-duty truck sales to surpass 100,000 vehicles annually by 2017; about 2.1% of total MD/HD sales

MD/HD HEV Truck Sales as percentage of ICE trucks, World Markets: 2011 and, 2017. Source: Pike Research. Click to enlarge.

A new report from Pike Research forecasts that sales of medium- and heavy-duty (MD/HD) hybrid trucks—including hybrid electric (HEV), plug-in hybrid (PHEV), battery electric (BEV), and plug-in electric power take-off (EPTO) variations—will surpass 100,000 vehicles annually by 2017.

The global truck market is about 3.7 million vehicles in 2011 and is expected to grow at a rate of 4.1% annually to reach 4.7 million by 2017. In the United States, trucks represent approximately 13% of the total fleet market (in number of vehicles). Overall, Pike Research forecasts that the market for hybrid and plug-in trucks will grow at an annual rate of 47.2% between 2011 and 2017 to reach 100,746 trucks, or about 2.1% of global sales. The Asia Pacific market, spurred on by governmental economic development activities, will be the largest market with 41,657 HEV/PHEV/BEV trucks sold in 2017, followed by North America with 25,952 vehicles.

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Study finds that low carbon vehicles will make progress in closing TCO gap by 2030, but will still require financial support for wide adoption

September 06, 2011

Required support for alternative vehicles in 2025 to make the four year TCO comparable to conventional ICE vehicles. Click to enlarge.

An analysis of future vehicle total costs of ownership (TCO) in the UK found that low carbon cars can make substantial progress in bridging the current cost gap by 2030. By 2030, the TCO premium for plug-in vehicles has decreased to £2,400 (US$3,825) for a PHEV (plug-in hybrid electric vehicle) and £3,000 (US$4,782) for the pure EV (electric vehicle). In 2010, this cost differential is closer to £20,000 ($32,000) for the pure EV, excluding current incentives and OEM discounts.

The study, based on assumptions for the UK market, also concludes that as conventional ICE vehicles continue to increase in efficiency, the effect of changes in fuel cost become less important as fuel costs contribute to a lower portion of the TCO. The fuel contribution to the TCO changes from 16% in 2010 (for the C&D class ICE vehicle) to 9% by 2030. According to the report, low carbon cars are likely to require continuing financial support in the form of differential taxation if they are to be widely adopted in future.

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Ford unveiling Evos Concept with cloud-optimized plug-in hybrid powertrain at Frankfurt show; previews new global design language

August 30, 2011

The Ford Evos Concept previews a new global design language for the next generation of Ford cars, MAVs and CUVs. Click to enlarge.

Ford will unveil the Ford Evos Concept at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show in September. The company said the four-door, four-seat fastback concept with plug-in hybrid powertrain previews its new global design language, while exploring key future powertrain and vehicle technologies.

Ford’s global Research and Innovation team, led by Paul Mascarenas, was tasked with building Evos Concept around an advanced technology experience that exploits a new generation of driver interaction and awareness currently under development in the Ford Research and Innovation laboratories. Seamless connectivity between the vehicle and the driver’s “personal cloud” of information is at the heart of the vision for its capabilities.

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Hitachi Cable develops smallest compact connectors yet for use in power harnesses for hybrid and electric vehicles; some 40% reduction in connector volume

Comparison of the volume of a newly developed connector to that of a traditional connector. Source: Hitachi Cable. Click to enlarge.

Hitachi Cable, Ltd. has developed what it says are the world’s smallest compact connectors (as of 28 June, based on its research) for use in power harnesses for hybrid electric vehicles and electric vehicles.

The drive systems of these vehicles consist of electric motors, inverters, batteries, and AC and DC harnesses connecting these electrical devices. Given the limited space for wiring and high-temperature conditions inside engine compartments, these harnesses must provide outstanding high-temperature resistance and flexibility.

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Government of Canada investing $6.5M in five next-generation auto R&D projects; total project value of $16M

The Government of Canada is supporting five new projects through the Automotive Partnership Canada initiative, including development of a battery pack thermal management system for hybrid electric vehicles; more efficient systems for wheel production; performance-enhancing catalytic converters; enhanced fuel cell technology; and improved automotive manufacturing workplace design and ergonomics.

These university-industry partnerships will receive more than C$16 million (US$16.4 million) in total project support. This includes C$6.5 million in funding through the Automotive Partnership Canada (APC) initiative, and close to C$10 million from industry and other contributions. Two of Simon Fraser University’s projects will be in partnership with Future Vehicle Technologies and Ballard Power Systems; the University of British Columbia will work with Canadian Autoparts Toyota Inc; the University of Alberta will team up with Vida Holdings Incorporated; and McMaster University will collaborate with the United States Council for Automotive Research.

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Peugeot unveiling 508 RXH diesel-electric hybrid and concept HX1 plug-in diesel-electric hybrid at Frankfurt

August 29, 2011

The 508 RXH diesel-electric hybrid goes on sale in Spring 2012. Click to enlarge.

Peugeot will introduce the 508 RXH diesel-electric hybrid, the third model in the 508 range and the second deployment of the HYbrid4 diesel-electric drivetrain following its release on the 3008 HYbrid4 (earlier post), at the upcoming Frankfurt International Motor Show (IAA) in September. The model is due to go on sale in Spring 2012.

Peugeot is also staging the worldwide debut of the six-seat multipurpose HX1 plug-in diesel-electric hybrid concept at the show.

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Audi to start series production of A8 hybrid in 2012

August 24, 2011

Audi A8 hybrid. Click to enlarge.

Audi will start series production of the A8 hybrid in 2012. (Earlier post.) Its 2.0 TFSI gasoline engine and an electric motor develop peak output of 180 kW (245 hp) and 480 N·m (345 lb-ft) of torque. Average fuel consumption in the EU cycle is below 6.4 liters per 100 km (36.75 mpg US); CO₂ emissions are below 148 grams per km (238 g/mile). (All figures are provisional.)

The Audi A8 hybrid reaches 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 7.7 seconds from a standing start and has a top speed of 235 km/h (146 mph). The sedan can travel at speeds of up to 100 km/h (62 mph) on electric power alone, and cover around three kilometers (1.86 miles) with zero local emissions at a constant speed of 60 km/h (37 mph).

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Toyota introduces 7th generation Camry for 2012 with improved fuel economy and performance across all models; ~39% jump in EPA city cycle fuel economy for the hybrid

August 23, 2011

2012 Camry Hybrid. Click to enlarge.

Toyota has unveiled the seventh-generation Camry, the best-selling car in the US for nine years running and for 13 of the past 14 years. The 2012 Camry again offers three powertrain choices, all of which have been enhanced for 2012 to provide better fuel economy and more responsive performance: a revised 2.5L, 4-cylinder gasoline engine; an enhanced 3.5-liter V6; and a highly revised version of the Hybrid Synergy Drive powertrain for the Camry Hybrid, including a new 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine (the new 2AR-FXE, a variant of the Camry 2AR-FE 2.5L).

The 2012 Camry Hybrid LE, with preliminary EPA-estimated fuel economy of 43 mpg city/39 mpg highway/41 mpg combined, yields about 39%, 11% and 24% boosts in fuel economy in the EPA city, highway and combined driving cycles respectively compared to the previous generation, due largely to the new hybrid powertrain, but also due to lighter vehicle weight and optimized aerodynamics (Cd=0.27). (The outgoing model carries a 31/35/33 mpg US EPA rating.)

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Pike forecasts cumulative plug-in vehicle sales to reach 5.2M units worldwide by 2017

August 22, 2011

Annual light-duty electric vehicle sales, world markets: 2011-2017. Source: Pike Research. Click to enlarge.

Pike Research forecasts that cumulative sales of plug-in electric vehicles (PEVs), the category that includes both plug-in hybrid and battery-electric vehicles (PHEVs and BEVs), will reach 5.2 million units worldwide by 2017, up from just under 114,000 vehicles in 2011. By the same year, cumulative sales of hybrid-electric vehicles (HEVs) will represent an additional 8.7 million vehicles, for a combined total of 13.9 million units in all electrified vehicle categories.

Overall, the market for electrified vehicles will grow at a CAGR of 19.5% between 2011 and 2017 (this compares to a CAGR of 3.7% for the vehicle market overall during the same period), according to Pike. The plug-in electric vehicle (PEV) will see substantial growth (48.4% CAGR) because it is currently still in its infancy.

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Ford and Toyota to collaborate on new rear-wheel drive hybrid system for light trucks, SUVs; partnering also on telematics standards and technologies

Ford and Toyota are collaborating as equal partners on the development of an advanced new hybrid system for light trucks and SUVs. The two companies signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on the product development collaboration, with the formal agreement expected by next year.

Ford and Toyota also agreed to work together on enablers to complement each company’s existing telematics platform standards, helping bring more Internet-based services and useful information to consumers globally.

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Ricardo reports significant efficiency advance in its Kinergy hermetically-sealed high-speed flywheel energy storage system; prospects for price-sensitive hybridization

Exploded view of Kinergy high-speed flywheel prototype and magnetic gear system. Click to enlarge.

Ricardo reports that a significant improvement in the magnetic coupling and gearing system in its Kinergy hermetically-sealed high-speed flywheel energy storage device (earlier post) has now taken the system efficiency to better than that of a conventional geared-drive system.

The subject of nine Ricardo patent families in application, Kinergy is based on a high-speed carbon fibre flywheel operating within a hermetically sealed vacuum chamber at speeds of up to 60,000 rev/min. Unlike current devices in which energy is imported and exported via a drive shaft operating at flywheel speed, Kinergy transfers torque directly through its containment wall using a magnetic gearing and coupling system. This approach to high-speed flywheel technology offers the prospect of enabling the unit to be sealed for life, thus avoiding the need for high-speed seals and a vacuum pump, and hence reducing costs and maintenance requirements.

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Hamburg putting its first Citaro FuelCELL Hybrid buses into service

August 18, 2011

Hamburger Hochbahn AG has acquired four Mercedes-Benz Citaro FuelCELL Hybrids under the German “NaBuZ demo” scheme to promote sustainable bus systems for the future. Three more buses are to follow next year. (Earlier post.)

The Citaro FuelCELL Hybrid features a number of key enhancements in comparison to the fuel cell buses which went into trial operation in Hamburg in 2003: hybridization with energy recovery and storage in lithium-ion batteries; electric motors in the wheel hubs offering a continuous output of 120 kW; electrified auxiliary units; and more advanced fuel cells. The latter are designed for an extended service life of at least six years or 12,000 operating hours.

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Pike Research forecasts hybrid electric locomotive sales could reach nearly 500 units from 2011 to 2020; to utilize 514 MWh of battery capacity by 2020

August 10, 2011

Hybrid electric locomotive sales by region, baseline scenario, World Markets: 2010-2020. Source: Pike Research. Click to enlarge.

According to a recent report from Pike Research, hybrid locomotive sales will reach nearly 500 units during the period from 2011 to 2020, representing an increasing portion of the total market.

During that period, hybrid locomotive sales will increase at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 19.4% under a baseline forecast scenario, with annual unit sales surpassing 100 locomotives by 2020. Pike Research’s aggressive forecast scenario anticipates that the market could achieve a CAGR of 25.4% during the same period, with annual unit sales exceeding 170.

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ALTe working with PG&E to validate retrofitted range-extended electric powertrain for fleets

August 05, 2011

The ALTe system converts conventional light-duty trucks into a range-extended electric vehicle. Click to enlarge.

ALTe, the developer of a range-extended electric powertrain used to repower light commercial vehicles, is collaborating with Pacific Gas & Electric Company (PG&E) to help validate the ALTe powertrain for the fleet industry.

Under the agreement, ALTe will retrofit one of PG&E’s 2007 Ford F-150 trucks with a version of its plug-in series electric hybrid powertrain. (Earlier post.) PG&E will evaluate the performance of the initial ALTe powered truck and provide data and feedback to ALTe.

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Protean Electric’s retrofitted through-the-road plug-in hybrid van showing significant fuel economy gains

August 02, 2011

Protean Electric’s through-the-road hybrid van. Click to enlarge.

A European-based Vauxhall Vivaro van retrofitted with Protean Electric’s electric wheel motors (earlier post)applied in a through-the-road plug-in hybrid system (TTRH) has shown a more than three-fold improvement in fuel economy in hybrid mode over a conventional Vivaro on the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC).

Protean Electric and Millbrook Proving Ground partnered to produce the Vivaro diesel hybrid. The vehicle is being shown for the first time in North America at the Center for Automotive Research Management Briefing Seminar, 1–4 Aug. in Traverse City, Mich. The retrofitted Vivaro has been shown at the 2011 Michelin Challenge Bibendum in Berlin and the eCarTec show in Munich, Germany.

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BMW unveils i3 BEV and i8 PHEV Concepts

July 29, 2011

The i8 (left) and i3 Concepts. Click to enlarge.

BMW unveiled the i3 and i8 Concepts in Frankfurt, providing a look at first electrically powered production cars from the new BMW i sub-brand, due to be launched as the BMW i3 in 2013 and the i8 in 2014. (Earlier post.)

The rear-wheel drive battery-electric (BEV) i3 Concept has been specifically developed for use in an urban environment and features a 125 kW electric motor with torque of 250 N·m (184 lb-ft) and a range of approximately 150 kilometers (93 miles). (An optional gasoline-powered range extender can provide further range.) With its LifeDrive architecture (earlier post) featuring a carbon passenger cell, the BMW i3 Concept combines an extremely low weight of 1,250 kilograms with optimal interior space and the highest crash safety levels. The 4-seat i3 Concept has a 200-liter (7 ft³) luggage compartment.

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Azure Dynamics to begin integrating plug-in hybrid technology in Ford F-Series Super-Duty Trucks; F-550 is first in 2013

July 27, 2011

Azure Dynamics Corporation has entered an agreement with Ford Motor Company whereby Azure will integrate its proprietary plug-in hybrid (PHEV) technology into the Ford F-Series Super Duty product line.

In collaboration with Ford, Azure’s plug-in hybrid technology will be initially integrated on Ford’s F-Series Super Duty cab and chassis, the F-550, which is expected to be available in early 2013. The agreement also allows Azure to perform hybrid powertrain conversions on other Super Duty platforms including F-350 and F-450 models and spans all engine, frame length and regular production options and configurations.

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MTI report finds consumers receptive to alt-fuel vehicles, but still prefer gasoline; quantifying the trade-offs

July 20, 2011

Importance of AFV characteristics in ranking decision. “Concerns about GHG emissions” polled the largest “not important at all” results at 9%. Data: Nixon and Saphores. Click to enlarge.

A new survey of consumer preferences among four different types of alternative fuel vehicles (AFVs) by Hilary Nixon and Jean-Daniel Saphores of The Mineta Transportation Institute (MTI) finds that while consumers in general still prefer gasoline-fueled vehicles over AFVs, there is strong interest in AFVs.

None of the four types of AFV examined—hybrid electric vehicles (HEV), compressed natural gas (CNG) vehicles, hydrogen fuel cell (HFC) vehicles, and battery-electric vehicles (EV)—was overwhelmingly preferred, although HEVs seem to have an edge, the authors said in their study,Understanding Household Preferences for Alternative-Fuel Vehicle Technologies. Full EVs were ranked last in preference by 40% of the respondents.

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BAE Systems and Crane Carrier Company partner on heavy-duty parallel hybrid-electric propulsion systems for refuse trucks

July 19, 2011

BAE Systems has entered into an agreement with Crane Carrier Company, a US market leader in the refuse collection vehicle (RCV) industry, to integrate a heavy-duty hybrid electric propulsion system into one of its vehicles. The new alliance will perform field trials this year with a plan for Crane Carrier Company to offer HybriDrive powered vehicles to the market by the end of 2012.

This alliance will introduce the use of the HybriDrive parallel system (earlier post) into the North American RCV market and is part of BAE Systems’ broader strategic initiative to address a range of heavy-duty truck vocations that also will include construction, pick-up and delivery, and utility.

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Virginia Tech professor proposes simple biomass-to-wheel efficiency analysis to inform decisions on biomass/biofuel/powertrain combinations; the advantage of sugar fuel cell vehicles

July 15, 2011

Comparison of biomass-to-wheel (BTW) efficiency for different biomass utilization scenarios. Sugar Fuel Cell Vehicles and BEVs charged with electricity from a fuel cell (green bars) were the most efficient. Huang and Zhang. Click to enlarge.

The potential role of biomass-derived fuels as a substitute for petroleum has engendered a great deal of research into different fuel pathways and possible powertrain combinations. Numerous life cycle analyses (LCAs) have attempted—and continue to—gauge the potential sustainability and impacts of these possible pairings.

However, notes Virginia Tech Prof. Y-H Percival Zhang in an open access paper published in the journal PLoS ONE, such analyses rely heavily on numerous assumptions, uncertain inputs (e.g., fertilizers, pesticides, farm machinery), energy conversion coefficients among different energy forms and sources, system boundaries, and so on. As a result, conflicting conclusions have been made even for well-known corn ethanol biorefineries, he points out. Zhang proposes using a simple biomass-to-wheel (BTW) energy efficiency analysis to help make a more informed decision for how to utilize (limited) biomass resources more efficiently.

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MAN Truck and Bus establishes Center of Competence for hybrid drives; hybrid technology to play “fundamental role” in all commercial vehicle segments

July 13, 2011

MAN introduced the Lion’s City Hybrid at the UITP Congress at Vienna in June 2009. Its series hybrid drive saves up to 30% of fuel in city traffic.

MAN Truck & Bus is consolidating all its R&D activities in the field of hybrid technology in a newly created Center of Competence, which at the same time is expanding. The new Center of Competence also will be the interface to co-operation partners and suppliers as well as to further experts, such as from universities.

In September 2010, MAN Truck & Bus introduced the diesel-electric series hybrid Lion’s City Hybrid, which uses up to 30% less fuel than a conventional, diesel-powered city bus. The vehicle is already in regular operation on scheduled routes in Munich, Paris, Barcelona, Milan, Vienna and other cities. Orders for a further 66 of these vehicles have been received to date; delivery is scheduled for 2011.

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AECOM study finds EV adoption in Victoria can offer significant economic benefits by late 2020s; PHEVs initially lead uptake

July 12, 2011

Modelled vehicle sales per year in Scenario 3. Source: AECOM. Click to enlarge.

According to a recently published report commissioned by the Victoria (Australia) Department of Transport from AECOM, electric vehicle (EV) technology offers the state of Victoria potentially significant economic benefits by the late 2020s. Such economic benefits could be realized earlier through effective policies which reduce first mover costs in the short term and promote rapid take-up once non-ICE vehicle price premiums reduce to levels that make them affordable to most consumers, according to the report.

For the report, Forecast Uptake and Economic Evaluation of Electric Vehicles in Victoria, AECOM modelled the likely penetration of electric vehicles (including hybrid vehicles, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles and electric vehicles) under various scenarios, in the absence of significant government policy interventions.

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Europcar to introduce Opel Ampera extended range EV as a rental car throughout Europe

July 11, 2011

Opel Ampera. Click to enlarge.

Opel and Europcar have agreed to introduce the Opel Ampera extended range electric vehicle (earlier post) as a rental car throughout Europe. The market introduction of the Opel Ampera (the European cousin of the Chevy Volt) is due by the end of 2011.

The goal is to deploy the first vehicles in Europcar rental outlets in Germany in November of this year, followed soon afterwards by Belgium and the Netherlands. The Opel Ampera will then be rolled out throughout France, Italy, Portugal, Spain and the United Kingdom from the beginning of 2012.

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Volvo developing extended-range electric vehicle concepts with three different technology combinations

Volvo is taking the next step in its electrification strategy by producing test electric vehicles with range extenders. (Earlier post.) Supported by the Swedish Energy Agency and the EU, the project comprises three potential technology combinations: one a series-hybrid range extender configuration; and two parallel-hybrid range extender configurations. Tests of the concepts will get under way in the first quarter of 2012.

The concepts all use three-cylinder flex fuel (gasoline and E85) engines to complement the front-wheel electric drive. Two of the solutions are based on the Volvo C30 Electric. In both cases, the standard battery pack has been somewhat reduced in size to make room for the combustion engine and its fuel tank.

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Scaleo chip enters the automotive powertrain semiconductor market; leveraging OLEA development

July 08, 2011

Scaleo chip, a leading fabless semiconductor company in body control and driver-information car electronics, is entering the automotive powertrain semiconductor market.

Scaleo chip will leverage the “OLEA” microcontroller research project—led by Scaleo chip—which is pursuing a next-generation automotive powertrain MCU (MicroController Unit) that address three challenges related to powertrain efficiency and performance: the energy efficiency of the engine; the increasing complexity of electronics systems; and the in-vehicle extension of networking.

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Gillig offering Vanner Hybrid Beltless Alternator as standard equipment on hybrid buses

July 01, 2011

Vanner HBA. Click to enlarge.

Gillig LLC, one of the nation’s largest transit bus manufacturers, now offers the Vanner Hybrid Beltless Alternator (HBA) as standard equipment on their hybrid buses. The Vanner HBA replaces the alternator and the associated pulleys and belts.

The Vanner HBA uses DC Converter technology to replace the traditional alternator and deliver benefits including: 25-30% efficiency improvements over traditional alternator technology; fuel economy improvements and reduced exhaust emissions; stable DC power at all temperatures and speeds; and precise and maintenance-free integrated voltage regulation. Output is 28 VDC (±2%) and 250A @ curb idle.

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New PLUS Performance Package for 2011 Prius

June 30, 2011

Toyota is offering a new accessory package for the 2011 Prius. First debuted at the 2010 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show, the Prius PLUS Performance Package features components of the new PLUS hybrid performance line from Toyota Racing Development (TRD).

Developed to meet the evolving demands of the growing hybrid segment, PLUS adds sporty looks plus performance handling. Toyota says that PLUS is an evolution of hybrid design, where fuel-efficiency co-exists with aggressive styling and performance handling.

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Volkswagen presents status of fleet study in electromobility; latest generation of twïnDRIVE plug-in hybrid

June 29, 2011

Volkswagen study Golf Variant twïnDRIVE. Click to enlarge.

Volkswagen, in cooperation with 6 project partners and the German Ministry of the Environment, presented in Berlin the current status of the “Fleet study in electric mobility” that was initiated in July 2008. The primary goal of the project, which runs until June 2012, is consistently to utilize renewable energy sources for electrically powered vehicles.

Within the framework of the fleet study, Volkswagen is implementing a total of 20 of the latest generation Golf Variant twïnDRIVE plug-in hybrid electric cars as research vehicles. (Earlier post.) The Golf Variant twïnDRIVE enables distances of up to 57 km (35 miles) on pure electrical power; an additional small internal combustion engine provides for a total range of about 900 km (559 miles).

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