Powertrain

Evora 414E proves Lotus' range-extender hybrid technology AEI spent a day recently at Lotus' Hethel test track driving the 133-mph Evora 414E range-extended hybrid demonstrator. Lotus engineers said much of its technology "will end up on other people’s cars." Read full story

Microorganisms, genetic engineering, and alternative fuels Audi has espoused an idea that may see the effects of the combination of microorganisms, waste CO2, sun-seared deserts, and genetic modification creating commercially viable synthetic e-fuels. Read full story

Democracy and CAE at GKN Driveline CAE is no longer the sole domain of simulation specialists at GKN Driveline. A foundation architecture for handling digital test and simulation data enables wide use of complex CAE by non-specialist product engineers. Read full story

Oerlikon Graziano unveils new 4-speed transmission for EVs The modular architecture is scalable for a wide variety of vehicle applications. It features two input shafts, each driven by its own electric motor, following DCT principles but with two motors instead of twin clutches. Read full story

Benteler leads engineering of MAN heavy-duty serial hybrid concept Featuring a diesel engine from Audi as a range extender and modular energy storage beneath the driver’s cab, the MAN Metropolis plug-in hybrid truck concept—developed in cooperation with Benteler Engineering Services and revealed at the recent IAA Hanover Show—will begin a two-year field test as a refuse collection vehicle in January 2013. Read full story

Bosch's 2015-16 stop-start system to add coasting functionality The advanced system to debut in Europe will require a more robust and reliable starter for a higher number of starts and an advanced power net architecture. The similar U.S. market version is expected to arrive in 2016-17. Read full story

EVs get boost from new SAE standard for dc fast charging The J1772 Combo Connector is designed to drastically reduce charging times. Read full story

Compressed natural gas gains momentum New commercial vehicles, onboard storage tanks, and shipping container-sized fueling stations signal the latest CNG products. Read full story

GM's new modular Ecotec I4 architecture adds first variable intake-valve lift The 2.5-L I4 is optimized for greater fuel efficiency, refinement, lower manufacturing costs, and broad vehicle applications. It features GM’s first application of variable intake-valve lift. The new engine architecture includes a 2.0-L turbo version. Read full story