DETROIT, March 9 /PRNewswire/ -- An increasing number of automakers now
see the Continental Temic ISAD system as the key to lower fuel consumption,
less CO2 emissions, and more enjoyable motoring. ISAD stands for Integrated
Starter Alternator Damper, and following the debut of this "mild hybrid"
technology in a General Motors light truck in 2003, the system is to be fitted
to another US-built vehicle later this year. In addition, development
engineers at Continental Temic are readying the system for volume production
for two European carmakers.
Regenerative braking and start/stop function: Up to 15 percent less fuel
ISAD is the ideal technology to help automakers cut emissions and fuel
consumption en route to meeting the voluntary commitment by the European
Automobile Manufacturers Association (ACEA) to reduce average new-car-fleet
emissions to 140 grams CO2/km by 2008. ISAD is also a key technology in the
drive to meet new, stringent corporate average fuel economy legislation to be
introduced in the USA.
During braking, ISAD generates electrical energy with a matchless
efficiency of around 80 percent and stores it, ready to boost the performance
of the internal combustion engine during acceleration. In simple terms, every
time you brake, you reduce your fuel bill. The start/stop function also helps
cut fuel consumption. As soon as the vehicle comes to a halt, the engine is
automatically switched off. Then, the moment the driver depresses the gas
pedal, ISAD restarts the engine almost silently, bringing it to full idling
speed in just 0.2 seconds -- about ten times faster than a conventional
starter motor. When the system is fitted to otherwise unmodified vehicles,
these functions result in fuel savings of over 10 percent. When all of the
relevant vehicle systems are modified accordingly, savings of up to 15 percent
are possible.
More torque: Better acceleration
ISAD also makes driving more enjoyable by providing up to 200 Newton-
meters of additional torque for the engine. This makes for a perceptible
boost in agility and in turbocharged engines in particular the additional
torque effectively smoothes out any turbo lag. Where there is no need to
improve performance, ISAD makes it possible to achieve the same kind of
performance with a smaller engine (downsizing). And as smaller engines have a
lower basic level of fuel consumption there are added benefits in terms of
environmental protection and resource conservation.
Vibration damping: Taming the bucking bronco
The patented ISAD control electronics can switch from alternator to
electric motor mode within ten milliseconds. This makes the system an
extremely effective means of offsetting torsional vibrations in the drivetrain
by applying synchronized torque to the crankshaft, helping to avoid the
"kangaroo" or "bucking bronco" effect.
Highly efficient system: Power for new functions
The ISAD system comprises an electric motor which is "wrapped around" the
crankshaft between the engine and the gearbox or mounted on the side of the
gearbox, control electronics, and a power storage unit. The storage unit
combines an optimized version of the conventional lead-acid battery and a
high-performance "Ultracap" capacitor. For greater efficiency, ISAD features
a 42-volt island configuration which is compatible with current 12-volt and
24-volt onboard networks.
One very attractive feature is that ISAD can develop up to 15 kilowatts of
electric power -- 5 kilowatts when the engine is idling -- to drive onboard or
external equipment. That kind of power means that heater output can reach
levels that previously called for engine-powered auxiliary heaters. In cold
weather the interior is soon snug and warm, and the engine reaches operating
temperature faster. That means less harmful emissions, a longer service life,
and much safer motoring, because rapid-action heating for the windshield makes
for good visibility.
With 2002 sales of approximately $12 billion (US), Continental AG is a
major supplier of brake systems, chassis components, vehicle electronics,
tires and technical rubber products. Continental Automotive Systems' North
American operation is headquartered in Auburn Hills, Mich. For additional
information, visit these websites: http://www.conti-online.com and
http://www.contitevesna.com .
SOURCE Continental Teves
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Related links:
http://www.conti-online.com
http://www.contitevesna.com
CONTACT:
Jim Gill, M.S., APR of Continental Teves,
+1-248-393-5210, cell: +1-248-882-6309, or
jim.gill@usa.contiteves.com
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