Hybrid Propulsion
      (additional information)

Function

The dimensions, organisation and even the form of the casing could point towards a gearbox with final drive in a transversely mounted engine. But, nevertheless, the internal design is very different, also in comparison to an automatic gearbox. The hypoid drive takes over the task of the starter, generator and also that of the variable speed gearbox. In addition, a continuously variable transmission develops. The acceleration attainable with the relatively small consumption-favourable internal combustion engine is improved a little by the implementation of aluminium and other weight reduction materials and particularly by adding the electric motor. For the maximum speed the low air resistance of the vehicle pays off.

How it works

The engine is mounted below to the left and drives the planet wheel carrier of an easy planet set (green point). The rotor of the electric motor (red point) is connected with the hollow wheel of this planetary gearbox and with the multiple chain going to the final drive. The generator 1 (blue point) is connected with the sun wheel.Prominent specific feature of the engine is the variable opening angle of the intake valve, enabling a changeable compression of up to 13: 1. With it the engine can be driven consumption-favourably and be integrated almost indiscernibly into the power flow. Also the SBC brakes are optimised to achieve a favourable consumption, because for light to middle braking not the brake, but the generator is activated initially.

This and the co-operation of the engines and generator is automatically controlled by computer. The only intervention possibility is the forcing of the electrical drive which is possible, however, only under specific conditions (e.g., max. 45 km/h), and the engine brake during a mountain departure. All gear ratios develop from the co-operation of three main components, including the reverse gear. This prevents at the moment the full summing-up of the torques of the internal combustion engine and the electrical motor, presumably in view of the subsequent power distribution. 06/08

Components