Chrysler VP says company will add start/stop system to some models
Following the public introductions of the Dodge Durango and Chrysler Aspen with the Two-Mode Hybrid system last week in Los Angeles, Chrysler executive VP for Product Development Fran Klegon spoke to Automotive News. Klegon reiterated some things that he has said on several previous occasions, notably that they would spread the application of the Two-Mode hybrid system to other vehicles in the Chrysler line up. Given that GM is installing the system in their full-size pickups next year and a new Ram pickup is also due later next year, that would seem a likely choice. It will be interesting to see if Chrysler pairs the hybrid system with their new Cummins light-duty diesel engine that's also coming in 2009. Perhaps on a shorter time-frame, Chrysler will add mild and micro hybrid systems to some vehicles. The latter are simply automatic start-stop systems that shut-off the engine when the vehicle isn't moving. According to Klegon, such systems could yield a five percent improvement in efficiency for only a few hundred dollars. We'll probably see that system get added to vehicles like the Caliber, Avenger and Sebring in the near future.
[Source: Automotive News - Sub. req'd]
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
66coronet 12:26PM (11/22/2007)
I'm all for the two mode hybrid in all vehicles. But to have engine shut down without the electic motor seem hazardous. Imagine stopped in traffic on a steep hill in the city. You need to creep forward but the motor is shut off. You press the accellerator and the motor starts and will you slide back into the next car during the time the motor is starting? I suppose you can keep your foot on the brake and press the gas. What if you want to feather the gas pedel? Will it start the motor at a slight pressure and slowly move the car as needed in stop and go traffic in a city?
The only way I think would be safe way to have engine shut off system is to have an electric motor to move the vehicle when the fuel motor is off. The electric motor will provide instant movement.
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Sam Abuelsamid 2:04PM (11/22/2007)
The start-stop systems typically work by restarting the engine as soon as the driver releases the brake pedal. Many new cars are also now being equipped with a hill-hold feature. When the brake is applied on a hill, the traction control will hold some pressure in the brakes until the gas is pressed at that point the brake pressure is released.
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