Editorial
Special Issue on Vehicle Fuel Economy: High Efficiency Engines and Hybrid Powertrains The automotive industry is going through a period of rapid transformation. The impetus for innovation and development of advanced technologies is created by recognition of energy supply and climate change challenges, as well as awareness of market pressures and ever increasing consumer expectations. This Special Issue of the Proceedings of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, Part D, Journal of Automobile Engineering is focused on research critical for development of powertrain technologies promising breakthroughs in vehicle fuel efficiency. Two main themes are highlighted, i.e. the advanced, flexible IC engine systems and hybrid propulsion for light-duty vehicles. The contributions were sought from amongst the most reputable authors in the worldwide industry and academic communities. The topics related to advanced engine systems include novel modes of combustion and flexible engine systems. Topics related to engine in-cylinder processes include the Premixed Compression Ignition (PCI), the Reactivity Controlled CI concept and a low-emission heterogeneous CI engine utilizing an innovative injection strategy. Systems work addresses improvements to part-load engine operation, including downsizing, an innovative engine breathing system, advanced engine design for improved efficiency using hydrogen and a study of the interplay between the novel modes of combustion and exhaust after-treatment.
Proc IMechE Part D: J Automobile Engineering 227(1) 3 Ó IMechE 2012 Reprints and permissions: sagepub.co.uk/journalsPermissions.nav DOI: 10.1177/0954407012470600 pid.sagepub.com
The hybrid propulsion systems theme includes the synergy between engine technologies and a given hybrid concept, the impact of accessories, the optimization of the extended-range vehicle based on CO2 targets, the novel approach to assessments of cycle-averaged efficiency and an air-hybrid concept focused on benefits of start–stop strategy. The contributions under both themes include simulation studies using predictive modelling tools, advanced experimentation and a combination of both. While high efficiency is a primary focus, emissions and environmental impacts are considered too. We would like to thank all the authors for their valuable contributions. We also extend our sincere thanks to the referees for conducting thorough and detailed reviews that have raised even further the level of the contributed papers. The Journal editorial staff have provided outstanding support to facilitate the Special Issue and keep everyone on schedule.
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Professor Zoran Filipi Timken Chair in Vehicle System Design, Department of Automotive Engineering, Clemson University International Center for Automotive Research, Greenville, SC, USA. Email:
[email protected]
