Energy/Environment

Honeywell, DuPont defend R-1234yf; Ford backs refrigerant studies Daimler's decision to halt use of the new refrigerant on safety concerns leads to a product defense by joint-venture suppliers Honeywell and DuPont, citing SAE studies and their own tests. Although GM is the only U.S. maker with R-1234yf cars, Ford also backs the refrigerant's use. Read full story

E.J. Bowman solution facilitates ethanol fuels testing When trying to simulate vehicle cycles accurately on a test rig, it is essential that the fluid temperatures and warm-up profiles are precisely represented; design of the heat exchanger is critical. Now, ethanol testing makes new demands, but Bowman has a solution. Read full story

A new approach to Li-ion battery modeling The new approach of researchers at Battery Design LLC and CD-adapco avoids the limitations of the standard approach by resolving the structure of the electrode and explicitly modeling the transport of lithium in the electrolyte and solid phases. Read full story

Improved natural gas fuel tanks and pumps for autos ARPA-e program involves several companies, government labs, and universities developing solutions so the U.S. can take advantage of its abundant natural gas reserves. Read full story

“Lincoln Motor Company” opened for business New York City’s Lincoln Center served as the backdrop for Ford's “reboot” of its luxury brand as the Lincoln Motor Company. The revival begins with the MKZ midsize sedan, but further differentiation could come from more exclusive high-performance versions of existing powerplants, plus perhaps European engines. And Ford’s rear-drive architecture, used by the Mustang, and it is being evaluated for luxury performance car use. Read full story

Fuel-cell vehicles from Hyundai coming soon 1000 Tucson ix35 hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles are to take to the road by 2015, says the Korean carmaker. Read full story

2013 Honda Fit EV applies ‘lessons learned’ from fuel-cell Clarity The electrified powertrain, a newly developed regenerative braking system, and Bio-Fabric seating material in Honda's new Fit EV all stem from developments in the FCX Clarity fuel-cell car and other EV forebears. Read full story

Magnet-based wireless EV charger could be smaller, safer, and cheaper A new noncontact power-transfer technology is under demonstration at the University of British Columbia. Read full story

Alternative powertrains must survive the 'hype cycle' SEMA VP Waraniak explains the five-step “hype cycle” for such emerging technologies as plug-in electric vehicles. Chrysler VP Gradu sees diesel as the most cost-effective choice for car performance. In the background is “Goodwin Assist,” a prototype concept to provide electric-drive assist in large vehicles, but at obviously higher cost. Read full story