GM’s 2nd-Gen Mild Hybrid Powertrain
GM has indicated that it is ready to release the second generation of its mild-hybrid powertrain. The new system is still a belt-alternator-starter (BAS)-based system, but is smaller and replaces the nickel-metal hydride battery with a Li-ion cell. The company has been locked in a well-publicized Li-ion battle with Toyota, in its effort to bring an all-electric Li-ion-powered vehicle to market. Both companies had been hoping to have Li-ion models available for the 2009 model year, but each has recently announced that Li-ion based vehicles will be introduced in 2010 instead.
GM’s second-generation mild-hybrid system is smaller and contains a more powerful motor, works with gasoline, flex-fuel and diesel engines, and can be easily adapted for rear-wheel drive vehicles, allowing the company to introduce the system a wider variety of its entry-level vehicles, including those in the Saturn and Chevrolet lines. Saab is also using the GM power train for its 9-X BioHybrid concept vehicle.
According to the company, the improved powertrain system will deliver an increase in fuel economy of 20 percent over its conventional internal combustion engines. GM Chairman Rick Waggoner said that the powertrain will be available in GM’s 2010 hybrid vehicles and the company expects to produce at least 100,000 units annually. Waggoner indicated that the affordability of the technology, which promises significant reductions in both gasoline consumption and carbon emissions, is based on the company’s sales volume and expects prices to drop if the hybrid models are widely embraced.
GM offers two separate hybrid power systems. The mild hybrid system, which is being replaced, is currently available in the Malibu and the Saturn Aura and Vue hybrid models. The mild hybrid system is not as efficient as the two-mode hybrid system, currently used in the company’s larger hybrid Tahoe, Yukon and Escalade models.
March 14, 2008 - by Hybrid Car Chat · Filed Under Hybrid Technology |
