H.C.C.I.
Engine + Hybrid Technology = Gasoline Hybrid Perfection?
Wednesday,
August 22, 2007
An
H.C.C.I. hybrid - as efficient as a diesel hybrid?
GM hasn't been the biggest fan of clean diesel technology.
O.K., not long ago, GM wasn't much of a fan of hybrid
technology either, but that has changed. So, it isn't
necessarily surprising that GM might not rush into clean
diesel, right?
Or, maybe there is an alternative reason why GM hasn't
been going diesel crazy?
One such reason just might be the Homogenous-Charge
Compression-Ignition engine, or H.C.C.I. - the next big
step for the internal combustion engine according to some.
"In principle, the H.C.C.I. engine takes advantage of
the best characteristics of gasoline engines low
emissions that can be controlled effectively with
available technology and diesel engines, which offer
low fuel consumption," writes
the NYTimes in a recent test drive of the technology.
More interesting, however, for hybrid fans is the fact
that like hybrid technology, computers are critical to
H.C.C.I technology. "When H.C.C.I. is finally ready
for the road G.M. wont say exactly when that might
be computers will take over the task of keeping the
engine in its ideal operating range."
That sounds like a perfect partner for hybrid technology.
Since an H.C.C.I. engine functions best at a certain range
of RPM's, it might make great sense to have hybrid
technology help keep the engine in its optimal RPM range.
For example, if the engine is above its optimal RPM range,
let the electric motor assist. Essentially, the computers
and software optimizing today's hybrid powertrains almost
operate in such a manner already. Rather than add a new
software system, combine the two.
What's the gain?
H.C.C.I hybrids could be 40 percent, or more, efficient
than conventional vehicles, largely based upon today's
technology.
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