Fully Charged YASA motors episode 23 [video]

In this episode of Fullycharged Robert Llewellyn makes a quick visit to the YASA motor works to see their developments in electric motor design and construction.

Hybrid rally car banned for being too fast [video]

What has been called the “world’s greenest rally car” has been kicked out of its championship because it’s too fast. The gasoline-electric Honda Insight hybrid, which competes in Britain’s Formula 1000 rally championship, has been asked to withdraw following concerns from rival competitors that it has an unfair advantage, after dominating the 2011 series with two wins and a second place from the first three rounds.

The car, which uses a tuned gasoline-electric hybrid system to give it more power and better fuel efficiency, has been developed by the Oaktec team from Lancaster over a six-year period using the low-emission Honda car as a base. The developments of the green technology have been so successful that the eco-car, which can return 2.8 L/100 km when driven slowly, has blown away a field of conventional rally cars to gain a 19-point championship lead after just three rallies.

The championship organizers phoned the Oaktec team to request that it stand down from the series and compete the car in a higher class to appease rival competitors. The team has agreed to the demand and will now look to race in other classes.

“It was a bit of a shock when I got the call as, after six years of hard work ,we finally had our chance for a bit of glory,” says Oaktec boss Paul Andrews. “But I fully understand the perspective of the organizers and their wish not to spoil the sport for the other drivers. Formula 1000 is a great championship and they were really supportive by allowing us to compete with these new hybrid technologies in their rallies and we always agreed that if we had a clear advantage we would step aside.

“It’s a shame it had to happen mid-season, but it’s the risk you face in going against the grain and trying something radical. If it fails, no one notices; if it’s successful, you have an unfair advantage. I think our project has made people realize that there is a real future for genuinely green technologies in motorsport and other leisure activities.”

To prove the eco-credentials of the tuned Honda hybrid system, Oaktec entered the rally car in a fuel economy competition and returned 3.45 L/100 km, beating the next best car, a small diesel, by almost a litre per 100 km. It has regularly returned less than 2.8 L/100 km in testing and has ultra-low CO2 emissions, yet uses the same combination of efficient engine, batteries and electric motor to win rallies.

In addition, the car is unique in motorsport because it uses a continuously variable transmission developed by Bosch, who also sponsor the car.

OakTec Motorsport

FIA OK new 1.6-litre V6 engine plans to be introduced in 2014

Formula 1 will officially switch to a 1.6-litre V6 engine format from 2014 after proposals finalised by the sport's stakeholders during last weekend's European Grand Prix were rubber-stamped by the FIA's World Motorsport Council on Wednesday.

According to a statement from the sport's governing body, WMSC members agreed in a fax vote to formalise the new turbo-charged engines, which will feature energy recovery units.

The statement read: "Following a fax vote by its members, the World Motor Sport Council has ratified the engine regulations recently drawn up in consultation with the main stakeholders in Formula One.

"The new power plant will be a V6 1.6 turbo unit with energy recovery systems. This new formula will come into effect as from the start of the 2014 FIA Formula One World Championship season."

F1's teams and the FIA were in deadlock over the engine situation for several weeks until agreement was reached during a Formula 1 Commission meeting prior to the European Grand Prix weekend to delay introducing the regulations by a year to 2014.

The new plans also featured a change in the format from a four cylinder engine to a six cylinder unit - Ferrari having been against the former on marketing grounds. Mercedes and Cosworth had also voiced concerns about development costs. F1 technical chiefs then met in Valencia to give their formal backing to the V6, 1.6-litre plan.

The teams indicated after the Valencia gathering that they would ask for a rise in the proposed rev limit of 12,000rpm to 15,000rpm. It remains unclear whether this was included in the ratified plans. Similarly it is not known whether a request to delay the introduction of new chassis rules set for 2013 - to coincide with the new engine plan - has been successful.

Pikes Peak on an Electric Motorcycle - Record Setting Ride [video]

Chip Yates piloted his homebuilt 240hp electric superbike to 14,110 feet setting the world record for electric motorcycles on Pikes Peak and placing 2nd in class.

Chip was hampered by 2.6 agonizingly slow miles of dirt, a huge oil slick on the Bottomless Pit right hand sweeper, and many hairpins had dirt strewn across them. Next year the course is entirely paved and Chip will be going for a top-10 or better result!

Mission R Electric Bike sets new Record time @ Laguna Seca [video]

Mission Motors: One lap of Laguna Seca on the Mission R from Mission Motors on Vimeo.

Steve Rapp put the Mission R electric race bike around Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca in 1:43.7. His run at Sunday’s REFUEL event handily topped the previous EV record of 1:44.4 held by Michael Czysz and his 2010 MotoCzsyz E1pc.

Nissan Leaf set bench mark in EV production class @ Pikes Peak

Under beautiful blue skies at the 89th running of the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb yesterday, veteran Nissan off-road truck racing champion Chad Hord and the 100 percent electric Nissan LEAF made history as the first winners of the Electric Production Class. The LEAF completed the run with a time of 14 minutes 33 seconds for the 12.42 mile run. Even though the LEAF was virtually stock except for interior safety modifications and more aggressive wheels and tires, it out ran several competitors with highly modified internal combustion engines.

The race is run on a 12.42 mile course with 156 turns that begins at 9,390 feet and finishes at the 14,110 foot summit of Pikes Peak. As the drivers climb toward the summit, the thin air slows reflexes and saps muscle strength. The thin air also robs internal combustion engines of up to 30% of their power at the summit but the LEAF's electric motor is not impacted by the thin air. It produces the same amount of power at the start and the summit.

The LEAF zipped from corner to corner in near silence other than the sound of squealing tires and the high pitched sound of a warning beeper installed at the request of the race organizers to warn spectators and workers. The LEAF comes from the factory with a pedestrian warning system that is active up to about 30 miles per hour but since the LEAF was traveling much faster on the course a supplemental system was a good way to warn those along the course that it was approaching.

"The LEAF was great fun to drive up the mountain" said Hord. "With the instant torque from the electric motor we were able to jump out of the many slow corners and the performance was very consistent from the bottom to the top since the electric motor wasn't affected by the high altitude near the summit like the gasoline powered cars."

Since the competitors can only practice a third of the run at a time during the week leading up to the race, today was the first time Chad and the LEAF had completed the entire race distance in a single run. "The Nissan LEAF and Chad both performed flawlessly this week" said Ron Stukenberg, senior manager, Marketing Communications, Motorsports. "This was an innovative way to demonstrate that 100 percent electric vehicles perform very well in highly demanding situations like the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb."

Fresh off his first ever Traxxas TORC series podium finish in his Nissan Frontier last weekend at Crandon International Speedway, Colorado Springs resident Brad Lovell made it two in a row with a second place finish in the tough Pikes Peak Open class in a time of 12 minutes and 33 seconds. This was done in the same truck that finished second at Crandon despite the very different nature of the course at Pikes Peak verses that at Crandon.

MotoCzysz looks to sell equity stake for $10m

Electric drive system innovator MotoCzysz will look to raise $10m through the sale of a 25 per cent equity stake in a capital raise that will see it expand its production capabilities.

Company founder Michael Czysz said it had already secured an order for its D1g1tal Dr1ve technology, which it bills as the simplest and most complete electric drive solution for any company manufacturing electric vehicles, and is now looking to increase its production levels.

The California-based company is also a pioneer in the electric bike space, recently winning the Isle of Man TT Zero race with its MotoCzysz E1pc 011 model.

Czysz told NewNet that to date capital has been solely raised from high net worth individuals but it was open to various options going forward.

‘We are looking to raise $10m for a 25 per cent equity share in the business. We have not gone down the venture capital route yet and I think that has so far been of benefit to the company. We are open to venture capital investment, we would just choose our partners very carefully,’ he said.

He said the company was very focused on getting the D1g1tal Dr1ve units into production and is in the process of securing more orders.

Earlier this year the company announced a strategic alliance with battery systems provider Dow Kokam, for MotoCzysz to build battery systems based on its lithium polymer batter technology for the motorsports market.

Czysz also hinted that a further industry collaboration was due to be finalised.

He said the technology the company has developed for the electric bike market could be easily transferred to other forms of green transport, with a revolution in how hybrid vehicles are being developed needed.

‘I do believe the technology we are developing is almost 100 per cent applicable to a car. Ultimately the cars have to be competitive in price. Range anxiety is easy to overcome and we need a hybrid vehicle where the combustion engine supports the electric vehicle. Integrated drive is a major step forward in that.’

Ahead of this year’s TT Zero race expectations were running high that the 100mph average lap time could be achieved for the electric bikes but even the fastest model missed just shy of that barrier.

Czysz said progress has been made since he first competed at the race three years ago, but evolution of the technology is not happening as quickly as some had hoped.

‘We can not go round the track about 7/8ths of the speed of the other bikes. There has been progression of the technology but the economy has harmed that rate of progression. In addition, the big companies have not come into the sector yet.’

AC Propulsion Electric Car Smashes Its Own Pikes Peak EV Record

AC Propulsion, a global leader in electric drive design, development and manufacturing, announced today that the Yokohama-sponsored electric race car using AC Propulsion’s proprietary electric drive system broke it’s own record set last year at the 88th annual Pikes Peak International Hill Climb.

The electronic race car won the hill climb’s Exhibition Class and set a new EV record, coming in at 12:20:084, beating last year’s 13:17:575 record. The car was also the race’s fastest EV among both cars and motorcycles.

“AC Propulsion electric drive systems deliver performance,” said AC Propulsion CEO Tom Gage. “Our string of Pikes Peak EV records–especially this one, where we are well into the 12-minute bracket–clearly demonstrates that electric vehicles can get up the hill fast. Now that more people are buying EVs, it’s important to offer really good performance. For us, the old racing slogan holds: win on Sunday, sell on Monday.”

This year’s 89th annual Pikes Peak International Hill Climb is comprised of racing to the 4,301-meter summit, covering 12.4-miles. Road conditions vary based on rapidly changing temperatiures and weather as well as combination of tarmac/ gravel surfaces and 156 turns.

The Yokohama EV is a rear-wheel drive, open-wheel race car . The AC-180 motor cranks out 268-hp at 6000-7000 rpm and has 258 lb-ft of torque.

GM showcases Chevrolet Beat Battery Electric Vehicle

Chevrolet selects India as an important market to test battery electric technology. General Motors India today showcased the Chevrolet Beat Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) as part of the ongoing celebrations of World Environment Day. The demonstration vehicle will be used by GM India to showcase the effectiveness of battery electric vehicle technology in India. GM India engineers will also use the vehicle to address potential cost savings to help make BEVs more affordable for global customers.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr Karl Slym, President & Managing Director, General Motors India said, “General Motors is committed to providing customers around the world with electrification technologies that will reduce their fuel consumption, helping them save money. GM India will lead in this ‘tailored for India’ demo program for battery electric technology, with Chevrolet Beat chosen as the best way to evaluate the technology. We are delighted that Chevrolet selected India as an important market to test battery electric technology, while recognizing the capabilities of our engineering team to help identify ways to make this technology more affordable.”

Powered by a 300 cell lithium-ion battery with a total energy capacity of approximately 20 kWh, the 270 kg battery can power the Beat for at least 130 km under normal driving conditions. The liquid cooled battery can operate in temperatures ranging from approximately -20?to 45?, with charge times of less than 8 hours using a 240V outlet. Power from the battery is transferred to the drive wheels through a single speed drive unit and an electric motor producing approximately 45kW of power.

This demonstration project is the latest example of GM’s commitment to be a leader in the development of vehicle electrification technologies. GM has already announced demonstration programs in Korea, China and Germany. The company is committed to delivering customers around the world with electrification solutions that best fit their lives, including the industry’s first extended-range electric vehicles: Chevrolet Volt and Opel Ampera.

Learnings from this demonstration fleet, and others around the world, will strengthen GM’s core vehicle electrification competencies including batteries, electric motors and power electronic and controls, and charging. GM India is already offering a range of alternate fuel vehicles including Chevrolet Beat LPG, Chevrolet Spark LPG and Chevrolet Aveo CNG to its valued customers.

GM has already established battery leadership. It has one of the most advanced battery labs in the world at its Technical Center in Warren, Michigan in the United States and will be opening a new battery lab in China soon.

The year 2011 marks the completion of 100 years of Chevrolet’s successful operations globally. With a wide array of products and services, Chevrolet has brought unmatched product quality and unparalleled performance to the customers around the world. Inspirational designs, superior technology and innovative programs have made Chevrolet one of the most-loved and sought after brand worldwide. Continuing its journey, Chevrolet plans to launch several new products and services for the global audience, relevant to the respective markets and customer preferences.

Nurburgring 24 Hour qualifying report [video]

The further-developed Porsche 911 GT3 R Hybrid (Version 2.0) with its innovative hybrid drive was not able to match the pace of the fastest vehicles after its performance was capped recently by the organizers due to the car winning the recent 4 hour endurance race at the Nurburgring.

Porsche driver Joerg Bergmeister had to contend with heavy traffic during his fastest lap and only managed 14th. He shares the cockpit of the 911 GT3 R Hybrid with his factory pilot colleagues Richard Lietz, Marco Holzer and Patrick Long.

The second and final qualifying takes place on Friday from 16.55 to 18.55 hours. The 24 hour race gets underway on Saturday at 16.00 hours.

Formula 1 to introduce V6 turbo with 10x more powerful KERS in 2014

The new engine regulations planned for 2014 will also see the Kinetic Energy Recovery System (KERS) output increase.

New 1.6 litre V6 turbocharged engines will be introduced as manufacturers attempt to reduce fuel consumption levels with the KERS hybrid technology also integrated. RenaultSport F1 deputy managing director (technical) Rob White told the Red Bull website that the lack of power from the engine will be partly compensated by an increase in performance ten times that of the current KERS units.

"It will be much more potent than KERS is now," White said. "In 2011 KERS is limited to 60kW power, using 400kJ of energy per lap. The equivalent numbers for [the new engine] are 120kW - so twice as much power - but more importantly, up to 4MJ (4,000kJ) will be available to the driver each lap.

"Basically it will contribute performance ten times greater than the 2011 KERS. We've become used to the cars using 60kW for a few seconds a lap. What we're talking about is twice as much power for much, much longer."

Toyota to Show New GRMN Hybrid Concept at Nurburgring

Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) will show the "GRMN (GAZOO Racing1 tuned by MN2) SPORTS HYBRID Concept II", a convertible mid-ship gasoline-electric hybrid concept, at the 39th Nürburgring 24-hour endurance race to be held near Nürburg, Germany, from June 23 through 26.

The GRMN SPORTS HYBRID Concept II is an updated version of a gasoline-electric sports concept shown at Tokyo Auto Salon 2010 and has been developed to embody the enjoyment of automobiles. The vehicle features advanced styling and an improved sports-hybrid AWD system with the main power unit (gasoline engine, rear-wheel drive motors and transmission) located in the middle of the body and a front-wheel drive motor in front—all positioned to improve maneuverability, enhance driving enjoyment and provide enhanced stability. Meanwhile, top-down driving in electric-vehicle mode gives a fresh and exhilarating driving experience.

TMC launched the world's first mass-produced gasoline-electric vehicle in 1997, and has long conducted active research on applying hybrid technologies to racing and sports cars. The GRMN SPORTS HYBRID Concept II is positioned as the next step in the evolution of these efforts.

GRMN SPORTS HYBRID Concept II Details

Engine	Type	2GR-FXE
	Displacement	3,456 cc
	Maximum output	183 kW (249 PS)
System	Maximum output	220 kW (299 PS)
Body	Length	4,350 mm
	Width	1,890 mm
	Height	1,200 mm
	Wheelbase	2,575 mm
	Weight	1,500 kg or less
Vehicle layout		Mid-ship with front electric motor
Tires	Front	225/40R19
	Rear	255/35R19

 

24 Hours Nürburgring Race Outline

Name	39th ADAC Zurich24h-Race 2011
Dates	June 23 through 26, 2011 (main competition runs from June 25 through 26)
Venue	Nürburgring (Nürburg, Ahrweiler, State of Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany)

Toshiba to Supply Automotive Inverters for Ford's HEV and PHEV from 2012

Toshiba Corporation today announced that the company has been selected by the Ford Motor Company to supply automotive inverters for hybrid electric vehicles (HEV) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV). Ford plans to start mass production of new models of both kinds of vehicle in 2012.

Toshiba will support Ford with a new inverter production line at its plant in Mie Prefecture, Japan, which has extensive experience in manufacturing for automotive applications. The new line will have a production capacity of 150,000 inverters a year and be ready to start supply in April 2012, following final adjustments to manufacturing equipment and final qualification by Ford.

Toshiba already has a June 2010 contract with Ford under which it will supply high-performance drive motors for HEV and PHEV from 2012, from its facility in Houston, Texas. The automotive inverters will be supplied to Ford with the motors as a set.

As the automobile industry moves toward a new generation of environmentally friendly vehicles, including HEV, PHEV and electric vehicles (EV), Toshiba is promoting advances in essential automotive technologies, from dedicated on-board control systems to batteries and Intelligent Traffic Systems. The company’s development of key components for HEV, PHEV and EV, including inverters and drive motors, is an essential part of Toshiba’s strategy in growing this promising business.

Electrified vehicles are attracting increased attention and growing levels of investment from the automotive industry. Toshiba estimates that the global market for inverters for such vehicles will grow from 180 billion yen in fiscal year 2010 to 1.5 trillion yen in fiscal year 2020*1.

How does the Nissan LEAF Nismo RC compare to a standard Leaf? [video]

During the shooting of GT Academy in Silverstone, Colin Price of Nissan takes us through a side-by-side comparison of Nissan's 100% electric Nismo Race Car, and the Nissan LEAF from which it was born.

AAA Plans Electric-Vehicle Charger Trucks

AAA, the largest U.S. motorist group, plans to deploy fast-charging trucks to aid drivers of electric vehicles such as Nissan Motor Co.’s Leaf when their batteries run down.

The organization will test the trucks starting in August, Christie Hyde, a spokeswoman for Orlando, Florida-based AAA, said today. Initially, the group will have at least six “mobile charging units,” including in states such as California, Oregon, Washington, Florida, Tennessee and Georgia, she said.

“We know electric vehicles are coming and we’ve got to be ready for them,” Hyde said. She declined to provide details on the cost or makers of the units and said AAA will test chargers from multiple suppliers.

Models such as the Leaf and Tesla Motors Inc. (TSLA)’s Roadster are already available and major automakers are preparing to offer more electric vehicles, prompting development of charging infrastructure. Governments are pushing carmakers to boost fuel efficiency and trim emissions of carbon dioxide and pollutants.

With the prospect of more electric cars, power companies are upgrading their networks with so-called smart meters and new transformers to ensure customers can recharge their vehicles at home without difficulty. Companies such as General Electric Co. are developing charging stations.
AAA will unveil its first “mobile charging unit” at an electric vehicle conference in Raleigh, North Carolina, in July, Hyde said. Edmunds.com’s Auto Observer blog reported AAA’s plans earlier today.

Following Japan

The U.S. plans come after Nissan and the Japan Automobile Federation this month said they’d also test charger trucks to repower stalled electric cars on that nation’s roads.

Nissan’s Leaf travels about 70 miles in combined city and highway driving per charge, while Tesla’s $109,000 Roadster is rated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency as getting more than 200 miles per charge.

Nissan, which aims to be the world’s largest seller of electric cars, is aware of at least two incidents in which Leaf drivers drained their lithium-ion batteries and needed assistance, Katherine Zachary, a spokeswoman for the Yokohama, Japan-based company, said last week.

Mitsubishi iMiEV Electric Car Test Drive EEVblog #179 [video]

Malcolm Faed drives an Mitsubishi MiEV Electric Car into the EEVblog to give Dave Jones a look and a test drive. And also talks about his electric ute conversion.

Source: EEVblog #179

Linear Motor powered World's steepest roller coaster to open in Japan

A new rollercoaster in Japan - which will boast the steepest vertical drop of any ride in the world - is set to raise the bar for thrill-seekers.

On July 16th, the Fuji-Q Highland Amusement Park, in the shadow of Mount Fuji in Yamanash, will unveil the stomach-flipping Takabisha ride - an attraction that includes seven major twists over 1000 metres of track, and a nerve-jangling drop of 43 metres.

The Takabisha, which translates as 'dominant' in English, relies on a combination of gravity and a set of linear motors on the cars. These accelerate the coaster to speeds of 100kmph. Riders experience weightlessness as they 'nosedive' down the sharp incline, before later being plunged into darkness.

Source: Daily Mail

The 2012 Audi Q5 hybrid quattro [video]

The First Full Hybrid in the Premium Mid-sized Class

Power like a V6, fuel consumption like a four-cylinder TDI - after three generations of the Audi duo, the Q5 hybrid quattro is the first hybrid model from Audi with two drive systems. Its gasoline engine, a 2.0 TFSI, and its electric motor have a system output 180 kW (245 hp) and 480 Nm (354.03 lb-ft) for sporty dynamics - the mean consumption in the normal cycle (NEDC) is limited to less than 7.0 liters per 100 km (33.60 US mpg).

During the development process, Audi focused on a high share of electrically powered driving. The sportiest hybrid SUV on the market covers about three kilometers (1.86 miles) locally emission-free at a speed of 60 km/h (37.28 mph), and can drive up to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) under electric power alone. With the equally powerful and lightweight lithium-ion battery and many other solutions, the Audi Q5 hybrid quattro represents the state of the art.

Performance
The 2.0 TFSI and the electric motor of the Audi Q5 hybrid are mounted directly behind one another as a parallel hybrid system - a straight-line concept with impressive efficiency. Together they have a system output of 180 kW (245 hp) and a system torque of 480 Nm (354.03 lb-ft). The new top model in the successful Q5 series sprints from 0 to 100 km/h (62.14 miles) in 7.1 seconds, while the interim sprint from 80 to 120 km/h (49.71 to 74.56 mph) is accomplished in fifth gear in 5.9 seconds. The powerful propulsion ends at no less than 222 km/h (137.94 mph).

The consumption by the Audi Q5 hybrid quattro lies under 7.0 liters per 100 km (33.60 US mpg) in the normal cycle - that corresponds to a CO2 emission of less than 160 g/km (257.50 g/mile). The 75 liter (19.81 US gallon) tank yields a reliable range comparable to that of a TDI.

The Drive
The 2.0 TFSI in the Audi Q5 hybrid quattro has a displacement of 1984 cc (121.08 cu in). Its output is 155 kW (211 hp), with the maximum torque of 350 Nm (258.15 lb-ft) permanently available at 1500 to 4200 rpm. The 4-cylinder engine combines direct injection with turbocharging - typical for the Audi philosophy of downsizing, which replaces displacement by charging. The Audi valve lift system (AVS) further increases power, torque and efficiency by switching the stroke of the exhaust valves between two stages depending on the load and rpm.

The 2.0 TFSI has been overhauled in some respects for use in the Audi Q5 hybrid. The drive of the ancillary units has been dropped, and the crankshaft bearing and fine tuning of the turbocharger have been adapted to the specific demands. A secondary air system at the cylinder head makes sure that the exhaust gas treatment cuts in particularly fast. Integrated in the engine control unit, the so-called hybrid manager controls the efficient change and smooth transitions between the operating modes, and was fully developed by Audi alone.

A largely modified eight-speed tiptronic serves the power transmission without the aid of a torque converter. Its place is taken by the disk-shaped electric motor, combined with the multi-plate clutch operating in an oil bath - it couples and decouples the electric motor and the TFSI. The innovative decoupler operates with high precision, smoothly and quickly in any situation.

The highly comfortable and fast-shifting hybrid gear unit contributes significantly to the efficiency of the Audi Q5 hybrid - its eight gears are widely spaced. When the 2.0 TFSI is turned off, an electric pump maintains the oil pressure in the hydraulic system to safeguard the convenient start-stop feature.

The Power Electronics and the Electric Motor
The power electronics, connected to the battery and the electric motor by high-voltage cabling, is located in the plenum chamber of the engine compartment. In the form of a so-called pulse-controlled inverter, the power electronics serves as a controller between the battery, which outputs direct current, and the electric motor that operates on alternating current.

Innovative technologies keep the volume and weight of the power electronics low, with cooling provided by a separate low-temperature water-filled circuit. The component includes a DC/DC converter that couples the electric consumers in the 12 V electrical system with the high-voltage network.

A so-called permanently excited synchronous machine serves as an electric motor, as a starter and - during deceleration - as a generator. It outputs up to 33 kW (45 hp) of power and 211 Nm (155.63 lb-ft). The electric motor is integrated in the cooling circuit of the engine.

The Battery
A lithium-ion battery system, weighing merely 38 kg (83.78 lb), serves as the energy store for the electric motor of the Audi Q5 hybrid quattro. The compact unit with its 26 liter (6.87 US gallon) capacity is positioned in a crash-safe area under the loading floor, with hardly any detriment to the luggage compartment. The battery consists of 72 cells; at 266 volts its nominal energy is 1.3 kWh and its output 39 kW.

The lithium-ion battery is cooled by air in two ways, depending on the requirement. At low-temperature load, it draws temperate air from the vehicle interior by way of a fan. If its temperature exceeds a certain limit, a separate refrigerant circuit is activated. It is coupled to the main climate control system of the vehicle and uses a separate evaporator.

This heavy-duty active cooling system distinguishes the Audi Q5 hybrid quattro from many other hybrid vehicles, and makes a key contribution to the high electrical availability of the hybrid system.

The Operating Modes
With its parallel hybrid system the Audi Q5 hybrid quattro can travel in five different operating modes. Driving with the combustion engine alone, with the electric drive alone or in hybrid mode is possible, as are recuperation and boosting.

At a standstill, e.g. before starting or at a traffic light, both drive sources are deactivated. In this convenient start-stop mode the climate control system remains active. Once the driver releases the brake, the Audi Q5 hybrid quattro starts rolling. It can be driven up to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) under electric power - with almost no noise or local emissions. At a constant 60 km/h the possible range is three kilometers (1.86 miles) - this high electrical share of the driving suffices for most residential areas and many urban centers.

The driver can change between three programs using a button on the center console or a selector lever. The EV characteristic map gives priority to the electric drive in the city, the D mode controls both motors for optimal consumption, and the S mode as well as the touch control gate of the tiptronic are designed for a sporty driving style.

When the driver accelerates sharply, the combustion engine serves as a power source for the drive. The electric motor is then actuated by the operating strategy in order to achieve optimal efficiency and consumption. In quick acceleration, or "boosting," the electric motor operates together with the TFSI; at full throttle in the S mode the full system output is briefly available. The hybrid drive then supplies the propulsion power of a large naturally aspirated engine, but with far more efficiency.

When the driver releases the accelerator, the electric motor acts as a generator and recovers energy. In most situations the TFSI is then decoupled from the drive system so as not to cause any loss from towing. The electricity recovered by the electric motor here and in braking is buffered in the lithium-ion battery. If the driver brakes only slightly, the electric motor performs the deceleration itself; in more forceful braking the hydraulic braking system is simultaneously activated.

Operation
The Audi Q5 hybrid comes with a new display concept, rendering the individual driving states of the hybrid drive clear-cut and tangible. Instead of the tachometer, the needle of the power meter in the dash panel insert indicates the total output of the system on a scale of 0 to 100 per cent. A second scale is divided into colored segments - their green and orange-colored sections show at a glance how the Q5 hybrid quattro is currently traveling - with a greater share of electrical power or combustion engine power. An additional instrument displays the charge level of the battery.

At the same time, the display of the driver information system and the large monitor of the MMI Navigation plus show the operating states and power flows in the hybrid system in elegant graphics with a three-dimensional effect. The MMI screen also displays differentiated consumption and recuperation statistics in easily understandable bar graphs.

The MMI Navigation plus is standard on the Audi Q5 hybrid quattro, and comes in the latest stage of evolution. The storage capacity of the hard drive is 60 GB, the menus can be selected via a state-of-the-art wizard, and the album tracks are displayed using the cover artwork. An external device such as a cell phone or player can be connected via Bluetooth, and the voice input understands town and street names in a single command. The resonant Audi sound system is also standard.

The quattro Drive and the Running Gear
The permanent four-wheel drive applies the power of both power units safely to the road in any situation. In the normal condition the sporty drive is emphasized at the rear; if need be, it transmits most of the power to the axle with the better traction. The sophisticated running gear includes many aluminum components for reduced weight. The Audi Q5 hybrid quattro may pull trailer loads of up to 2000 kg (4409 lb).

An electro-mechanical unit serves as the steering system, with a small electric motor generating the power. The system operates at high efficiency, since it need not consume any energy in straight-ahead driving. The brake servo is additionally supplied by an electric vacuum pump. A complex rule-based strategy adapts the braking to the conditions of electric driving and energy recuperation.

The Exterior
The Audi Q5 hybrid quattro is distinguished by visual features on the outside. The tailgate, the fenders and the aluminum sill panel strips bear the hybrid lettering. The radiator grill is glossy black, and the tailpipes chrome-trimmed. Polar Silver, metallic is available for the exclusive paintwork.

The 19 inch cast aluminum wheels were specially designed for the hybrid - their ten spokes resemble turbine blades. The tires are size 235/55. On request Audi supplies other wheels with 19 and 20 inch diagonals, with an S-line bumper available from quattro GmbH.

The body is unusually light in weight; the tailgate and the engine hood are aluminum. The rigid body shell incorporates hot-stamped steel at numerous places, combining low weight with very high strength.

Despite the generous level of standard equipment, the Q5 hybrid quattro with its curb weight of less than 2000 kg (4409 lb) is the lightest hybrid SUV on the world market. All its hybrid components add less than 130 kg (286.60 lb) extra weight.

The Equipment
The climate control system of the Audi Q5 hybrid was adapted to the requirements of electric driving. The compressor of the air conditioning has a high-voltage based electric drive; demand-controlled for high efficiency, the compressor ensures AC operation even when the combustion engine is shut down. An electric auxiliary heater supports the interior heating.

The Audi Q5 hybrid quattro offers almost the same equipment as its successful sister models - the model series leads the European market in the mid-sized SUV segment. The options also include sophisticated driver assistance systems. A new feature is connection to the internet via the optional Bluetooth car phone online. A UMTS model sets up the connection to special services from Google and the World Wide Web, bringing the latest news and weather information into the vehicle.

The driver can plan his or her travel route at home, save the information in an area of the internet site www.audi.com and from there download the data into the navigation system via UMTS at the start of the trip. Through the fast connection the hybrid SUV also downloads three-dimensional satellite images and aerial photos from Google Earth. They appear as bird's eye views on the monitor; the computer draws in the roads.

Another high-end feature is the WLAN hotspot, allowing connection to the internet via up to eight terminal devices. Communication occurs via the roof antenna, the connection is very stable and the reception quality excellent. Thanks to a special modulation process, UMTS data transfer occurs at speeds up to 7.2 MB per second. Encryption follows the WPA 2 standard - a very secure method.

The use of the WLAN hotspots is as easy as can be - the driver need merely insert a data-capable SIM card. At the same time the driver can pair a cell phone with the system via Bluetooth, if the phone has the SIM Access Profile. The existing mobile phone contract with a data option suffices in most cases with the result that no additional charges or separate contracts are necessary.

The Audi Q5 hybrid quattro will arrive at dealerships during 2011.

Renault and Better Place partner in Australia to launch Fluence Z.E. in 2012 [video]

Better Place and Renault today announced a strategic partnership in Australia, expanding their global relationship by bringing the world’s first mass market, zero-emission car with a switchable battery to the region. Under this agreement, Renault will import the first electric car equipped with a switchable battery, the Fluence Z.E. into Australia, and Better Place will provide the electric car charging network and services that make the car more convenient and affordable for the mass market.

Renault and Better Place will commence a joint marketing campaign in the lead up to launch in 2012. The cars will arrive in Australia by the middle of 2012 for the first customers in Canberra, with general sales due to commence later in the year. Customers will buy the Fluence Z.E. from Renault and sign up for a Better Place membership package that is tailored for their driving needs.

Renault Fluence Z.E.

Renault has developed Fluence Z.E., an elegant, family electric car that features a switchable battery. As the first production mid size sedan electric vehicle, Renault Fluence Z.E. targets both private motorists and fleet operators who are looking for a vehicle that is both economical to run and respectful of the environment.

The switchable battery technology completely offsets the range limitation of traditional EVs, as a depleted battery can be exchanged for a fully charged one at Better Place’s fully automated battery switch stations. The car will be fully compliant with ADR. The Fluence Z.E. will offer Australian drivers a range of 185 kilometers on a full charge, under the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC); however the effective range of the vehicle is unlimited. This infinite range is due to the convenience of the switchable batteries that enable drivers to immediately “fill up” their Fluence Z.E. via a fully automated process in any Better Place battery switch station, in less time than it takes to fill up with petrol.

A widespread infrastructure and an attractive offer

Better Place is building and operating the first fully integrated electric car charging network in Australia, and it will be the infrastructure provider for the innovative Fluence Z.E. Better Place has announced its plans to begin the deployment of its infrastructure in Canberra, Australia’s capital city, starting in late 2011, with a progressive national rollout to follow. By 2013 Better Place will give Australia the largest electric car charge network in the world, which is expected to outpace current deployment plans in market-leading countries including the US and China.

The Better Place membership provides unlimited access to batteries, the network of public charge spots and battery switch stations, and personal charge spots at home or work. The membership also includes supply of 100% renewable electricity, personalised energy management and navigation services via in-car and network software and 24-hour access to customer service and support. The membership packages give drivers a fixed price for their mobility, freeing them form the constant volatility of petrol prices.

When combined with the Better Place network, the Renault Fluence Z.E. is the first mass-market, electric car with unlimited range. It gives Australian drivers the same freedom they enjoy with a petrol car, but with zero oil and zero emissions.

A comprehensive network to purchase and maintain Fluence Z.E.

Customers will be able to purchase Fluence Z.E. in selected Renault dealers, as well as through Better Place Experience Centres. Those centres will provide visitors with a full experience of electric mobility. As for maintenance, most Renault dealers will provide after sales for Fluence Z.E., both for regular service and specific repairs.

Zero-emission mobility, a concept adapted to Australian cities

Renault and Better Place are committed to promoting zero-emission mobility, primarily for urban and suburban driving. Australian homes have an average of 2.7 cars per household and one million new passenger and light commercial vehicles are sold every year. Average fuel consumption is 11 l/100 km and average mileage 20,000 to 25,000 km a year. The petroleum cost per household is 45% higher in Australia than in France owing to higher mileage.