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Operators see bright screens in their future HMIs borrow from tablets, phones to help operators perform a broad range of tasks Small engine landscape Kubota engineers developed new small-displacement engines that adopt a common-rail system while optimizing the combustion system and injection characteristics. Sensitive to safety A growing number of digital sensors are among the tools being used to make sure failures are rare and injuries are even more infrequent.

Big future for e-axles, advanced motors Top transmission engineers claim driveline electrification will transform everything from all-wheel drive to Class 8 tractor-trailers. Big data's benefits keep a-comin' Gigabytes of data are being collected and increasingly mined to improve field operations, maintenance and even vehicle design. Transformative times Despite a challenging climate, technology development progresses - as does the sharing of innovative ideas - virtually. Editorial Zeroing in on zero emissions Softing envisions secure, reliable predictive maintenance Reconstructing accidents in the ADAS age Paving the way to improved truck fuel efficiency Nikola looks to accelerate production, hydrogen infrastructure Mecalac designs unique-pivoting swing loader Q&A' Horiba's Joshua Israel discusses complex regulatory landscape's impact on commercial-vehicle development and shift to electrification.

Delivering simulation benefits Product-development software tools are being put to good use in many off-highway industry segments. Movingalong with stationary power Performance, reliability, and cleanliness are just a few of the golden rules for all engines, whether they are propelling a tractor or powering a barn. Frames adapt to changing environments Heavy-equipment frames do not often get a lot of attention from customers, due mainly to the fact that they get plenty of attention during the design cycle. 2005 technology in review A look back at some of the most significant technological innovations in the news during the past year, as deemed by readers and editors.

Operator station innovations Off-highway engineers work hard to provide comfort, ease of operation, and reliability to users. As an added challenge, they must design for operators who can spend an entire day working hard in their cab. Designing online Major developments in internet-based technologies are profoundly changing the engineering/design process, revolutionizing the way OEMs and suppliers do business, and speeding the industry's time-to-market. FEA simulation of an electrohydraulic system Researchers from the Milwaukee School of Engineering provide an accurate model of a typical magentic actuator Predicting injury in forklift upsets Researchers from the Biomechanics Institute present test results that demonstrate operators can prevent ejection and injury from a forklift if they are lap-belted and have either a winged seat or hip restraint.

The diesel engine diet Researchers correlate engine performance and durability with the properties of alternative fuels that consist of vegetable oils and animal fats. Looking at a safer future Software, other sensors will augment cameras as safety's role in the off-highway industry takes an upward spiral. Plastics expand their range From high-speed train exterior panels to powertrain components, plastics and composite materials are finding their way into more off-highway applications.

Technology for small-engine emissions reduction Swiss researchers used a modern four-stroke engine in conjunction with a commercially available catalytic converter and special gasoline to develop a significantly cleaner-running walk-behind mower. Large-scale application of J1939 The SAE electronic systems communication standard provides a method for achieving engineering flexibility, product standardization, parts rationalization, service, and customer convenience. Focus on electronics OEMs and their suppliers are developing vehicle systems for improved vehicle operation and reliability/durability with the help of electronics. The following pages review some recent industry advancements. 2000 SAE International Off-Highway Congress: one for the ages From antique off-highway equipment to the latest in intelligent vehicle technology, the 2000 SAE International Off-Highway & Powerplant Congress & Exposition brings yesterday and tomorrow together today.

Tier 4 for large bore Engineers show that a pre-turbine aftertreatment system offers clear and distinct benefits in terms of compact, cost-effective emissions reductions. Programmed for safety and reliability The software that adds features and functions is becoming more reliable as standards and new techniques transform design processes. Electrohydraulics improve with new lift-control strategy Fuel consumption, torque delivery, and emissions can all be improved through flexible control of the valve timing, duration, and lift.

Frankfurt Motor Show The art of automotive product packaging is a complex, multifunctional design and engineering discipline that has led to cars with relatively small overall dimesnions yet remarkable interior space. E-volutions As the movement to improve various supply-chain functions through the implementation of e-business initiatives gains momentum, the providers of the products and services that make the benefits possible are becoming more important to the automotive industry's future. Automakers going digital A math-based, vehicle-devleopment-process strategy has helped General Motors to achieve greater engineering capability, efficiency, and quality. A more redefined Ram Chrysler Group engineers have employed the use of hydroforming, new airbag technology, and aerodynamics, among other things, to improve the design, ride, and safety of the Dodge Ram 1500 for model year 2002.

2004 Paris Motor Show Highlights Though themes were distinctly elusive, there was a broad spectrum of technology, design, and styling on display from Europe-based manufacturers. Production-based cars race ahead The SCCA's Speed World Challenge has delivered automakers a U.S. platform for racecars that are closely related to the vehicles they sell. Let's come together Supplier parks are beginning to take hold in North America as automakers and their suppliers look to improve supply-chain efficiency and reduce costs. Grand ride for Grand Cherokee Jeep engineers give the 2005 model more on-road comfort, with all the off-road capability. Land Rovers makes a Discovery The new SUV, to be called LR3 in the United States, is the first all-new vehicle developed under Ford's leadership and is described as the most technologically advanced Land Rover so far.

Frankfurt Motor Show concepts Visitors to the 60th IAA held in September were greeted with 125 world premieres, 60 of which were new vehicles by the world's automotive manufacturers. Prior to the public event, AEI editors scoured the show to put together this special section of Global Vehicles highlighting the best-in-show concept cars. Dynamic rollover testing on the way NHTSA announces that the 'fishhook' manuever, along with the static stability factor, will be used to rate vehicles for rollover propensity beginning with the 2004 model year. Shortening the chain Despite the trend toward increased outsourcing, the integration of compounding and molding operations at molded composite parts maker Composite Products resulted in a leaner and more economical supply chain. NASCAR research and development With the help of a new managing director and R&D center, the popular racing series is pursuing technology to improve safety and level competition.

A controlling interest Motorola's Scott Anderson provides insight on how electronic controllers are making cars safer, better-performing, and more fun. Software support for telematics Microsoft's Automotive Business Unit is focusing on the convergence of Internet technologies with vehicle systems through the deployment of Windows CE and .NET software platforms. Cadillac CTS The company's latest passenger car ushers in a new era of Cadillac performance with the V-series. Lincoln Navigator Redesigned for the first time since its 1997 launch, the full-size SUV not only looks different from the original version, it feels different, too. A heavy-duty RAM Chrysler Group engineers have included several firsts for the 2003 Dodge Ram 2500 and 3500 pickups, including side curtain airbags and power adjustable pedals. Enzo Ferrari: the car Ferrari is planning to build 349 copies of its "extreme sports car," which embraces a raft of Formula One technologies.

Consumed by changes Reprogramming becomes the focus of engineers as radios become multifunction head units integrating many infotainment functions. Design insiders Packaging, comfort, 'premiumness,' and quality are keywords in the vocabulary of car interior designers, but significant changes to interior structures could lead to a design revolution. Accident avoidance 2.0 OEMs and suppliers are going to great lengths to ensure the proper performance of their next generation of active safety products. Automotive policy goes to the polls Presidential candidates John McCain and Barack Obama stake out different positions on issues affecting the automotive industry and future vehicle engineering. Mitsubishi i MiEC Instead of focusing on hybrid propulsion, the company is hoping to be a leader in all-electric vehicles by readying a minicar for 2010 launch. Tato Nano The Indian automaker intends to overcome obstacles and deliver on its promise of a $2500 all-weather, safe family car.

Like a rolling home Suppliers are helping automakers engineer vehicles that allow passengers to bring along the comforts of home. Focusing on distraction An explosion of new features, functions poses challenges for safety. Performance goes green With record-high fuel prices and CO2 concerns providing the impetus, automakers are developing more fun-to-drive cars with an eye towards efficiency. GM re-engineers pickips More refined ride, higher-quality interiors, and greater efficiency are some of the highlights of the 2007 models. Jeep takes on tough terrain For 2007, the brand's iconic Wrangler is engineered to be more rugged off-road and more refined on it. Audi updates TT theme The second-generation rendition is bigger, more powerful, and uses a subtle metals mix and match. Vantage: as Aston to the core A common platform strategy is a vital element of the company's design and manufacturing flexibility.

Avoiding crashes through engineering Sensor fusion and FlexRay adoption pose big challenges for active-safety systems developers. Sounds of silence NVH analysis comes into the spotlight as traditional targets are addressed and new trouble spots are uncovered. Fuel cells power up As the alternative-propulsion technology moves from lab to limited production, car makers are looking for new design solutions and materials to reduce costs.

Trends in advanced chassis control Motorola vehicle system developers examine the state-of-the-art microprocessor and other electronic technologies driving the development of advanced braking, steering, suspension control, and collision warning/avoidance systems. Wheel design and engineering Consumer demand is driving the automakers' move to large-diameter, shiny, alloy wheels. Telematics and the digital car As development of new telematics products and services gain speed, OEMS, suppliers, and other players in the automotive industry are using simulators as a tool to gain greater understanding of driver distraction. NisSun Rising Nissan is back, according to President and COO Carlo Hosn, thanks to a revised product development structure that makes better use of employees and technology. Back to the future for Ford manufacturing The Vice President of Vehicle Operations said the company's goal is raw materials to finished goods in one day.

Global Viewpoints North America North American automakers and suppliers know that moving the ball forward technologically is their best bet for survival, if not success. In the special section on the following pages, some of the automotive industry's top executives discuss the latest trends and their strategies for game-changing vehicle engineering and development. GM's new battery boss Denise Gray has global responsiblity for bringing the best energy storagte systems to GM's expanding hybrid program. Energy, environment, and engineering The drive toward energy security and environmental responsiblity is leading many automakers, Chrysler Group included, down a variety of technological avenues--diesels, biofuels, and hydrogen fuel cells among them. Investing in future business Delphi has had its ups and downs since departing from the General Motors umbrella in 1999 as a fully independent publicly traded company, but 2007 may reign as the ultimate watershed year for the supplier.

Global viewpoints: technology leads the way From fuel cells to flexible circuitry, advanced technologies are helping North American automakers and suppliers build vehicles that deliver increasingly high levels of safety, reliability, performance, and comfort/convenience. Sensor development for occupant rollover protection Delphi Automotive Systems pursues new devices for the pecularities of rollover conditions. Several steps toward recovery Making new vehicles out of old vehicles--as well as discarded carpeting--enables automakers to do the right thing for the environment, society, and their balance statements. Englightened interiors Product developers at Chicago Miniature Lamp discuss trends and advances in automotive interior lighting. Geneva Motor Show highlights Vehicles on display at the event, held in early March, ranged from the bizarre to the functional.

Finding the right niche As technology, politics, and OEMs struggle to achieve environmental cohesion, small and niche companies are determined to ride out the maelstrom with their ability to adapt, react, succeed, and survive. Jaguar and Land Rover shift Access to technology and engineering takes center stage as the two brands transition from one giant parent to another as Tata takes over from Ford. Aston Martin bonds The company is developing closer ties with Tier 1 suppliers in its new role as an independent. Bentley has secret CO2 plans The company wants to combine luxury and high-performance hallmarks with massive cuts in emissions. Lotus small and manueverable The engineering arm's technology menu--including lightweight, small engines, and high performance--is being sampled across the world. Porsche looks to the future Gasoline hybrid technology, convergence potential, and diesels could be in store for the company.

NAIAS production vehicles Editors review the engineering highlights of the show's production-vehicle introductions. BMW 7 Series: AEI's Best Engineered Vehicle for 2002 With help from its suppliers, BMW has produced a vehicle that blazes the engineering trail with innovations that will influence passenger vehicles for years to come. Developments in fuel cells Automotive engineers are concentrating on providing quick startup, cost reduction, mass manufacturability, and crash safety. AEI Tech 2002 Awards Automotive Engineering International editors highlight the top products and technologies that were displayed at the SAE 2002 World Congress. Introducing S.M. Shahed, SAE President for 2002 From humble beginnings, S.M. Shahed carves out a seat at the society's top spot. Urea selective catalytic reduction Testing by Ford researchers of a small-diesel emissions-control system proved successful in meeting ULEV emissions standards.

Toyota Prius: Best-Engineered Car of 2001 Following the Japanese introduction of the first-generation Pruis in 1997, the significantly re-engineered second-generation model features new technology to meet the demands of the Western market, including improved driving performance, lower emissions, and reduced costs. Introducing Niel Schilke, SAE President for 2001 General Motors' former top engineer in Canada brings a systems engineering mentality, along with high expectations, to the SAE presidency. Fuel cells start to look real It is looking more and more as if the fuel-cell-powered car--the long-awaited "clean personal transportation of the future"--is moving from laboratory vision to technical reality, if not yet market actuality. Fuel-cell testing Capabilities that deliver reliable monitoring and control, as well as offer the benefit of a flexible configuration, are critical to keep pace with evolving fuel-cell technology, according to National Instruments.