Automotive Engineering International 2008-09-01

Automotive Engineering International 2008-09-01
    • Looking forward to safer highways
      New camera technologies, along with better algorithms and software, are enabling the move to active-safety systems that warn and then take control of vehicles in dangerous situations.
    • Fuel-cell futures
      Eager to find alternative-propulsion solutions, automakers are betting that renewed emphasis on fuel-cell vehicles will pay off in the long run, with the latest examples aiming to prove higher-volume production feasibility.
    • Consensus building ojn refrigerant type
      The hydrofluoro-olefin refrigerant HFO-1234yf has emerged as Europe's favored R-134a replacement, but some prefer R-744.
    • Strengthening the link through software
      The next generation of simulation tools could help better synchronize manufacturing engineering and product design.
    • NVH challenges get tougher
      Though one of the more complex disciplines within automotive engineering, designing for good noise, vibration, and harshness characteristics can enhance safety by reducing driver fatigue and bring to the most modest of cars a perception of high quality.
    • Planning for the future
      At Mazda North America, well-executed product planning involves trend forecasting, market-data interpretation, and a vehicle-development program built for flexibility.
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