Powertrain

Aerospace leads in additive manufacturing Read full story

New tools simplify development of large electric motors for powertrains As powertrain electrification moves forward, tool providers are stepping up to help engineers improve efficiency. National Instruments has enhanced its hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) technology, partnering with JSOL to create a tool called the JMAG-RT add-on for NI VeriStand. Read full story

Waste heat recovery by Behr improves fuel economy for long-haul trucks Roughly 30% of the energy contained in diesel fuel is currently lost via the hot exhaust gases and EGR in a truck. By using a newly developed waste heat recovery system, Behr has demonstrated that 5% or more can be fed back into the drivetrain, which could improve long-haul fuel economy by the same amount. Read full story

Putting the brakes on wasted kinetic energy from trains Two makers of energy-storage devices recently announced projects involving the capture of energy from train braking that otherwise would be lost as heat. Read full story

Federal-Mogul's new 2D testing process helps diesel pistons stand the pressure Federal-Mogul's Durabowl process and new 2D ultrasonic testing helps OEMs develop diesel pistons that will endure the higher mechanical and thermal loads associated with downsizing and boosting trends. Read full story

A new drive toward wireless EV charging Inductive power-transfer coils—in the roadbed and on board—could help unleash EV use in the U.S., so the government is spurring wireless charging development. Read full story

2013 Avalon Hybrid shoots for 40-mpg overall EPA rating The all-new D-segment sedan is the first in its class to bring a full hybrid powertrain—Toyota’s proven input-powersplit Hybrid Synergy Drive system—to the premium midsize segment. Read full story

Avago engineers optical isolators for electrified vehicles Fault-free powertrain operation can be ensured by isolating systems from transients, shorts, and other faults. Read full story

Taking action on friction As Director, Engineering and Technology–Powertrain Energy, Federal Mogul, Keri Westbrooke is responsible for all North American applications engineering activities for automotive and heavy-duty pistons, piston rings, liners, and ignition design and has global responsibility for steel piston technology. Read full story