Chrysler adds integrated temperature humidity sensors on hybrid SUVs
In the course of developing hybrid vehicles, automakers typically try to minimize parasitic losses wherever possible to maximize the fuel efficiency numbers. For Chrysler's first production hybrids, the Dodge Durango and Chrysler Aspen, the struggling automaker has incorporated a new sensor that measures temperature and humidity. Like GM's two-mode hybrids, the air conditioning system in the Chryslers is electrically driven off the hybrid battery. As those of us who live in areas with hot humid conditions are aware, the moisture level in the air has as much to do with perceived heat as the ambient temperature.
The new integrated temperature humidity sensor factors this in to the climate control to use only as much A/C as needed. If the temperature outside is 80F and the humidity is 80 percent, the system will control the temperature to a lower level than if the humidity was only 30 percent. While this has absolutely no impact on the EPA (because the air conditioning is turned off during testing) numbers, it will benefit drivers in the real world. The ITHS has been patented by Chrysler and Daimler and will only appear in vehicles from those companies for the time being.
[Source: CarList.com]
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
Dad 5:57PM (6/23/2008)
"it will benefit drivers in the real world."
Very "cool" technology.
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Joseph 6:27PM (6/23/2008)
"While this has absolutely no impact on the EPA (because the air conditioning is turned off during testing) numbers"
I think you might be incorrect.
From the government website http://fueleconomy.gov/feg/fe_test_schedules.shtml
"Beginning with 2008 models, three additional tests will be used to adjust the city and highway estimates to account for higher speeds, air conditioning use, and colder temperatures."
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Dave 6:16PM (6/23/2008)
The Prius has been using a humidity sensor, multiple air temperature sensors and a light sensor to adjust A/C output since at least the 2nd generation model was introduced in 2004.
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MemphisNET 8:13PM (6/23/2008)
@Dave. These are Chrysler's first hybrids. The story is showing that they are looking at all area's for improvement, not just the basics (drivetrain).
Good to see they're trying to get their thirsty vehicles under control, but they really need to address weight in their smallest vehicles. The Caliber is great utility wise, but geesh is it ever a porker for its class.
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Dave 6:27AM (6/24/2008)
@MemphisNET - I don't know - the tone I got from the summary suggested that only Chrysler had the technology to do so, since they have it patented. I'm not sure what they have patented, since at least Toyota has been doing something similar for years which was my only point.
It's good to see that they're introducing this technology in their hybrid, but when are we going to see this across the product line? (Same goes for Toyota's intelligent A/C system!)
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TommyD 8:08AM (6/24/2008)
Will Chrysler be around long enough to sell these? It seems like they're putting a lot of effort into selling reduced fat bacon--it's still bacon!
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