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Existing stop-start systems have several concerns such as take-off response, engine restart noise, high cost and system complexity. This paper describes a newly developed stop-start system that overcomes these concerns and can be used on high-volume production models at an affordable cost. The new system is based on a compact motor generator that allows cranking at restart and also functions as an alternator following engine start. A belt-driven system is used for restarting the engine to avoid noise from gear insertion and engagement. The motor generator is capable of high-speed operation for reducing engine startup time. Starting control has also been improved to achieve the shortest possible startup time in combination with a newly developed direct injection engine. Shortening the startup time tends to impair engine smoothness at restart. However, this concern has been resolved through cooperative control with the motor generator.

New technologies are needed to reduce cold-start emissions in order to meet the more stringent regulations that will go into effect in Europe (EC2000 or EC2005) and in California (ULEV), especially for larger engines such as 6- and 8-cylinder units. One new technology in this regard is the electrically heated catalyst (EHC). However, the use of EHCs alone is not sufficient to achieve the necessary reduction in emissions. This paper discusses techniques for effectively combining the elements of an EHC system, including the introduction of secondary air into the exhaust, improved control of the air/fuel ratio, and an electric power supply method for EHCs. It is shown that it is more effective to promote exothermic reactions in the exhaust manifold than at the EHC. A suitable method for this purpose is to introduce secondary air into the exhaust near the exhaust valves.