 Electric supercharger in demo engine (Image:CPT) |
Drivetrains and transmissions seem to be leading the way this month headed by a collaboration between Controlled Power Technologies in the UK and Germany's AVL List GmbH to produce a gasoline engine that apparently reduces CO2 levels to a diesel engine equivalent. |
Presented in a demonstrator at the International Vienna Symposium earlier this month, the new engine combines a range of technologies including variable torque enhancement, supercharging, smart alternator control and exhaust gas cooling and recirculation. As well as diesel-level CO2 emissions, the engine is designed to have similar torque levels at low speed.
 Mazda MPS (Image: Mazda UK) |
There was good news for GKN with the announcement that their innovative Driveline Super LSD (Limited Slip Differential) has been chosen for the Mazda3 MPS high performance hatchback. The ‘hot hatch' is powered by a 260ps (191 kW at 5,500 rpm) direct injection turbo petrol engine - meaning a great deal of power being delivered to the front wheels.
Keeping it in the family, VW Group have asked Skoda to produce their new MQ 100 transmission for a new VW family car. The MQ 100 is designed for petrol engines delivering up to 120Nm, with production slated for late 2010. The deal will require an investment from Skoda of more than CZK1.5bn ($78.6m).
Amongst green innovations, Dow announced the launch of its Symbio Base and Bio-hydraulic Fluids as the start of a range of biodegradable fluid products. According to Dow, these are the first ever to "combine the renewable and biodegradable characteristics of high oleic (HO) canola oil...with polyalkylene glycol (PAGs)". The base fluid is intended for formulating hydraulic, metalworking and other fluids and greases, while the Bio-hydraulic product is intended for stationary industrial hydraulic systems.
Other lubricant innovations included the introduction of Lubrizol's new HyperZDP System which is an additive technology designed to balance extended catalyst life and engine wear protection in order to meet the forthcoming ILSAC GF-5 specifications highlighted in last month's OATS bulletin.
 Image:zerotohundred.com |
In the marine sector, the US National Marine Manufacturers Association have now approved a new catalyst-friendly marine engine oil specification for the four-stroke cycle, with a roll-out date placed for the summer of this year. And Malaysian producer Petronas has announced that it's newly launched Urania heavy-duty diesel lubricants will soon be available worldwide as well as in their home country. |