New Hybrid Technology Being Developed
General Motors, which has lagged behind Toyota in the building of hybrid cars, announced at the Geneva Auto Show earlier this year that they would introduce advanced hybrid technology in 2010. Based on current technology powering several of its sedans, the next generation hybrids will utilize an advanced lithium-ion battery, supplied by Hitachi Vehicle Energy Ltd., a subsidiary of Tokyo-based Hitachi Ltd.
GM Hybrid System — Many Uses
This particular hybrid system is different from the two-mode system which is used to power some of the larger trucks and SUVs in the GM portfolio. According to the GM press release announcing this initiative, “The increased power from the lithium-ion battery will allow the next-generation GM Hybrid System to be used in a wide range of global powertrains, including naturally aspirated engines, new high-efficiency turbocharged engines, bio-fuel engines and diesels.”
Saving Fuel, Reducing Emissions
The next-generation GM Hybrid System helps optimize fuel efficiency and reduce emissions by:
Turning the engine off at idle Offering brief electric-only propulsion Using a more powerful electric motor to enhance engine efficiency Extending fuel cutoff during deceleration Extending regenerative braking to recapture more energy Performing intelligent hybrid battery charging
Making Good Use Of Slushbox Technology
For additional energy savings, an advanced six-speed automatic transmission also may be used, depending on the vehicle application.
GM expects to eventually sell as many as 100,000 hybrids annually and offer this technology in as many as 16 different models. Expect even those numbers to be multiplied once the technology has been refined, price points lowered, and consumer demand surges.
Matthew C. Keegan is a freelance writer who resides in Cary, North Carolina. Custom Jewelry . Matt provides magazine, web content, and article writing services to clients all over the world serving the automotive, human interest, and business communities. If you are looking for quality performance parts for your vehicles, then consider Buick Riviera mufflers and Buick Skylark body kits, products which are available to you at discount prices.
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