Hybrid powertrain will drive future automobiles in India
The automotive companies are formulating their strategies to abide by the emission norms outlined by the Government of India. The companies have to carry out the BS VI norms in 4 years. Hybrid and electric vehicles are the available and accepted options. A hybrid vehicle is a combination of internal combustion engine and electric motor.
When hybrid vehicles start plying on the roads, 50% of the fuel consumption, and hence toxic emissions, can be reduced. The electric vehicles are viable, but it is very difficult to extract enough power and the infrastructure (charging station) is not available across the country.
The hybrid drivetrain or the powertrain is different from the normal vehicles. The powertrain components of the hybrid vehicle are IC engine, electric motor, batteries and transmission. The space of the internal combustion engine is shared by both the diesel/petrol or gasoline and electric motor. Many computer-controlled systems are in place.
Hybrid cars integrate the power of conventional gasoline engine with that of the electric motor. The high-power batteries provide energy to the motor and the battery gets charged during deceleration of the car with the use of regenerative braking energy. The engine also provides assistance in recharging which eliminates the plug in need of the hybrid which serves as one of the major advantages especially for the Indian market with moderate infrastructure.
Hybrid vehicles
The OEMs have started rolling out hybrid vehicles. The Ashok Leyand ‘Hybus’ is India’s first hybrid bus assisted by ultracapacitors in the powertrain which eliminate the need for external charging equipment and infrastructure.
Especially designed for urban transport with frequent stop-start cycles, a diesel genset charges the ‘Hybus’, while ultracapacitors provide the electric motor with the necessary power for movement. This environment-conscious technology is combined with international standards of comfort and convenience. The company claims that 25% of savings has been achieved on fuel consumption and significant reduction in emissions.
The series hybrid powertrain used in the HYBUS is a combination of a high-torque