Valeo starter-alternator inside new Micro-Hybrid Smart
We are pretty big fans of the stop/start technology that is being implemented by a growing list of automakers lately, as it is a relatively inexpensive way to get some meaningful fuel economy and emissions benefits. The systems can be adapted to many different platforms, because all modern cars are already set up with the components to make it work. The alternators and starters need to be made more powerful, and are combined in the Valeo StARS system, which is going to be standard on the new Smart Micro-Hybrid model. For some pictures of the machine, click here.
Valeo has a demonstration on their website which shows how their system works. They also have other products which can raise the efficiency of the vehicle they are applied to. One of the other major benefits to this simple system is that you do not need to change your driving habits to make it work. Of course, you might be able to get higher mileage if you do adjust your driving style, but the system is seamless and will work whenever it can. That's good for consumers who just want their machines to work without any extra hassle.
[Source: Valeo]
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
Travis Rassat 11:21PM (7/13/2007)
It would be really cool if they offered this as a retrofit product for existing vehicles. I would buy it, if the price wasn't too outrageous.
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ricefarmer 3:08AM (7/14/2007)
@travis exactly what i was thinking.. i want to get a yaris and make it a plug in ev. but this would be the next best thing if i can retrofit it into the yaris
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Travis Rassat 12:53PM (7/14/2007)
@ricefarmer,
That would be an excellent application!
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L1G 8:31AM (7/17/2007)
It is not easy, because the engine belt was designed only for the generator mode and not for the starter mode. As a result, you have to add a tensioner and to communicate with the Engine Control Unit... So the retrofit will be more expensive as the money could be save to use this system.
But what you could already do, it is to stop your engine at each red lamp, engage the 1st gear and asap is green press the clutch pedal in same time to turn on your engine thank to the ignition key! (You could save also much gasoline if your drive in over-gear)
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