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Electrify This: Toyota Opens Vehicle Patents to Advance Global Electrification

April 4, 2019 by admin

Electric vehicles may very well be the future, but the transition to them is a long process. Manufacturers must invest tens of billions of dollars to research, develop, and execute these models — a cost that can be prohibitive, if not downright impossible to meet for some companies.

This week, the Toyota Motor Corporation announced it would help its competitors enter the market, by granting royalty-free licenses on more than 24,000 patents it holds on electrification-related technologies. These include pending patents.

Also, the automaker said it will help its competitors by developing and selling electrified vehicles when they use the company’s components, including, motors, batteries, computers, control units, and related technologies in their own vehicles. In other words, a future hybrid model from Chrysler might feature Toyota technologies.


Toyota hybrid technology
Toyota’s hybrid technologies include motors, computers, batteries and scores of related components.

Global Electrification Leadership

Why would Toyota do this? Goodwill is an important reason as the company acknowledges that the worldwide effort to reduce vehicle emissions is a daunting task.

Furthermore, the move once again highlights Toyota’s leadership in all things electric — this Japanese automaker has produced the global-leading Toyota Prius hybrid since the 1990s and has the largest hybrid fleet in the world. Moreover, Toyota has long been involved in full electrification, most recently with its hydrogen fuel cell Toyota Mirai. Clearly, this automaker has the experience that no other manufacturer can claim.

“Based on the high volume of inquiries we receive about our vehicle electrification systems from companies that recognize a need to popularize hybrid and other electrified vehicle technologies, we believe that now is the time for cooperation,” said Shigeki Terashi, Member of the Board and Executive Vice President of Toyota Motor Corporation. “If the number of electrified vehicles accelerates significantly in the next 10 years, they will become standard, and we hope to play a role in supporting that process.”

Royalty-Free Patents

Toyota’s royalty-free patents are especially useful for hybrid (HEV), plug-in hybrid (PHEV), and fuel-cell electric vehicles (FCEV). Nearly 24,000 patents were awarded to Toyota over the past 20 years.

The automaker has granted access to these patents immediately and will keep its offer open through 2030. By then, the global automotive fleet may look far different than it is today. At least in the new vehicles offered as well as the used car fleet.

For manufacturers desiring Toyota’s assistance with developing electrified vehicles, Toyota’s fee-based technical support will cover specific areas. These include overviews of vehicle electrification systems, control guides, and tuning guides. According to Toyota, that kind of assistance will help its competitors optimize performance, maximize fuel efficiency and output, while achieving acceptable levels of quietness in their function.

Toyota, Lexus Hybrid Models

As for Toyota’s internal plans for electrification, we’ll see more of the same as its hybrid models continue to improve in efficiency and performance. Indeed, the latest generation of hybrid models are more efficient and powerful than before and include the Toyota Prius Prime, Toyota Avalon Hybrid, and the first-ever Toyota Corolla Hybrid.

The automaker’s Lexus luxury brand is also well represented by such models as the Lexus NX 300h utility vehicles and the Lexus ES Hybrid sedan. In the U.S., Toyota easily outsells its competitors in all things hybrid.


See Also — Lexus: 1 Million Hybrid Vehicles Later

Photo copyright Toyota Motor Corporation.


Filed Under: Automotive News Tagged With: ELECTRIFICATION, FUEL CELL VEHICLES, HYBRIDS, Lexus, motors, patents, PHEVS, Technology, Toyota, Toyota Motor Corporation

Energized by the 2017 Ford Fusion Energi

August 24, 2016 by admin 8 Comments

Ford’s PHEV is surprisingly reasonably priced.

2017 Ford Fusion Energi.
2017 Ford Fusion Energi.

Three model years passed by and I finally got behind the wheel again of a Ford Fusion. Just like the last time, this model was the Fusion Energi, a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle based on Ford’s popular midsize car.

Now in its fifth model year, the 2017 Fusion Energi is a close match to the standard hybrid model as well as to the gasoline version. Besides the electric charging port located just ahead of the driver’s door, the other differences have to do with badging — you’ll find Fusion Energi markups on the exterior as well as inside the sedan.

And that’s a good thing too — the Fusion is already an attractive model and no styling differentiation is warranted. Some manufacturers opt for silly looking grilles or other embellishments to distinguish gas and hybrid models. On the other hand, it seems Ford decided that a near uniform look for all Fusion models is entirely sufficient.

2017 Ford Fusion Energi Platinum

The 2017 version welcomes a third trim level, Platinum, joining the current SE and Titanium editions. Also new this year is the grille, exterior LED lighting, and SYNC 3 infotainment system. All models now come with an 11-speaker audio system and a new rotary transmission selector.

What hasn’t changed is the 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine powering this model nor the permanent-magnet AC-synchronous electric motor or the lithium-ion battery. Also present is an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission to turn the front wheels.

2017 Ford Fusion Energi

Selling hybrids is a difficult proposition, especially when gasoline prices are hovering around $2 per gallon. Yet, manufacturers must consider the long-term outlook as fuel prices are likely to eventually climb. Further, despite the likelihood the current 54.5 mpg corporate average fuel economy (CAFE) mandate is in jeopardy, the internal combustion engine will one day go away.

At least with hybrids, you get a bridge between gasoline and electric. And in PHEVs, you enjoy a lengthy electric-only mode — 21 miles in the Fusion Energi when it is fully charged.

Some consumers may be concerned that the Fusion Energi doesn’t have the power to move this sizable midsize sedan. But this model weighs in just under 4,000 pounds, which is about 1,000 less than a comparable SUV. The Fusion Energi makes 188 horsepower and in electric-only mode it also delivers copious amounts of twist. Not once did I find myself wishing for more power nor did I serve up complaints about torque steer —understeer is only slight and it immediately corrects itself when it shows up.

Competitively Priced Among PHEVs

Ford prices the 2017 Fusion Energi from $31,120 for the SE edition, $32,120 for the Titanium, and $39,120 for the Platinum model. The big jump in price between the second and third trims can be ascribed to one important fact: every conceivable option offered elsewhere is included here.

2017 Ford Fusion EnergiFord’s hybrid pricing has held steady or fallen over the years. Add in the available $4,007 federal tax credit and further savings can be had. In some states, PHEV owners are eligible for additional credits or rebates. Such credits or rebates apply to PHEVs only — standard hybrids are not eligible. Boil it all down and the Fusion Energi could cost you nearly the same price as an equivalent gasoline model, perhaps less.

A long list of standard features is found in the Fusion Energi. All models are equipped with power accessories, an 11-speaker audio system with a CD player, MP3 capability, and a 6-month satellite radio subscription. You also get 17-inch wheels, power heated side mirrors, dual-zone climate control, remote start, push-button start, leather seats, heated front seats, three 12-volt power points, a 110-volt outlet, and a reverse sensing system.

The available features bring this model up a full notch, especially in the Platinum edition. Here, you get adaptive cruise control, blind spot information system, inflatable rear outboard safety belts, a power moonroof, and a voice-activated navigation system. The safety features build on a standard safety package comprised of remote keyless entry, a rearview camera, a post-crash alert system, and a suite of airbags.

What sets the Fusion Energi Platinum apart from the rest isn’t just the added features. This model supplies leather nearly everywhere — across the dashboard, on the seats, upon the door inlays, surrounding the center stack, and beyond. And quilted leather at that — at least on the seats. I said this before regarding the Ford Explorer Platinum — the luxury level here seems as if Lincoln’s designers were tasked with the project.

Introducing Ford SYNC 3

To the great relief of many, all Fusion models now have SYNC 3 — the latest generation of Ford’s infotainment system. The first system rolled out in the 2008 Focus and then spread to other models. Later, it was updated and paired with MyFord Touch. The MyFord Touch and second-generation SYNC system were widely panned and for good reason: it was a complicated arrangement and a headache for owners.

SYNC 3 is the cure Ford needed and this system is far superior to what once was. The color display features understandable apps and is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. I own an iPhone 5 and the pairing is excellent — some of the SYNC functions are replaced by my SIRI-driven iPhone, while other features are left alone. Together, the pairing is pleasing and makes me want to forget (almost) the previous arrangement.

2017 Ford Fusion Energi

On the Road

The big question many ask about the Fusion Energi is this one: how does it perform on the road? Perhaps another question to ask is — how does it perform when the battery is fully charged?

As what usually happens, the Fusion Energi arrived at my home with the battery fully discharged. This is understandable as bringing a car more than 150 miles from the distributor means the electricity has been long depleted, if it was used at all. And that’s the beauty of the system: when you charge the system, you can click on a switch located between the seats and reserve that option for later.

So, travel around town on electric power only and let the gasoline energy do all the work on the highway. Even when driving in gasoline mode, the battery is replenished by the brakes as well as by the engine.

One thing I don’t do is connect visiting PHEVs to my home’s outlet. For one reason, the outlet is simply too far away. For another reason, I have a 110-volt outlet. It is best to charge with at least a 240-volt outlet, otherwise, you’ll need to connect for 6.5 hours simply to get a 21-mile electric range.

Most of my driving was conducted in one day as I made the trip from my home in Cary, North Carolina, to downtown Pinehurst. I chose the Pinehurst location because it is about 60 miles from my home. It also has a pair of public charging stations, so I quickly connected when I arrived on the scene early one morning. To my surprise, the car was fully recharged in about three and one-half hours and that meant I could go to my next location, Pittsboro, and charge it again at Central Carolina Community College.

CCCC has two charging stations too, and they’re typically busy. When I arrived there was one car connected, so I made the charge. Three hours later I was on the road again, this time returning to Cary. I considered charging again, this time at one of the three public charging locations in my town, but the day was late. Besides, after my initial 60-mile jaunt, I traveled 53 miles from Pinehurst to Pittsboro and then another 33 miles to my home in Cary. All told, I drove about 150 miles, including 42 miles of electric-only power.

2017 Ford Fusion Energi

I was able to replenish the battery only twice during my week with the Fusion Energi. After nearly 300 miles of drive time, I managed to maintain a 42.3 mpg average, just above the 42 mpg EPA projection. That’s much better than the 25 mpg average for a similarly equipped gasoline Fusion.

As for the driving characteristics, the Fusion Energi handles fine as it utilizes electric power-assisted steering. I mentioned the negligible torque steer earlier. The ride is soft, the brakes are firm, and the interior is quiet. My overall impressions of the Energi Platinum are that it matches well with some luxury cars and delivers fuel economy that beats nearly every small car on the road.

Parting Thoughts

Of course, some won’t take kindly to the price premium you’ll pay for a PHEV. But that amount is now quite small — just $1,600 more for the Energi Titanium (versus the standard Titanium) and $2,600 more for the plug-in Platinum versus the gas model. If you qualify for the federal rebate you’ll actually come out ahead in the purchase proposition. If not, you’ll enjoy upwards of 17 mpg advantage in fuel economy — that’s money you’ll save at the pump with fewer fill-ups.

2017 Ford Fusion Energi Platinum

  • Sticker price from $31,120
  • Price as tested: $39,120 (Platinum)
  • Seats 5 occupants
  • 2.0-liter 16-valve four-cylinder engine (Atkinson cycle)
  • 141 horsepower @ 6,000 rpm
  • 188 net horsepower; 195 in charge depletion mode
  • 129 foot-pounds of torque @ 4,000 rpm
  • 3.44 inches bore by 3.27 inches stroke
  • Engine compression ratio: 12:3-to-1
  • Continuously variable transmission
  • Wheelbase: 112.2 inches
  • Length: 191.8 inches
  • Width: 75.2 inches
  • Height: 58 inches
  • Passenger volume: 102.8 cubic feet
  • Storage volume: 8.2 cubic feet
  • Towing capacity: N/R
  • EPA: 108 mpg city, 92 mpg highway
  • Regular grade gasoline
  • Fuel tank: 14 gallons
  • Curb weight: From 3,913 pounds
  • IIHS safety rating: Top Safety Pick+
  • Limited vehicle warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles
  • Powertrain warranty: 5 years/60,000 miles
  • Corrosion warranty: 5 years/unlimited miles
  • HEV warranty: 8 years/100,000 miles
  • Vehicle assembly: Hermosillo, Sonara Mexico

See Also — Experienced: 2016 Lexus LX 570


2017 Ford Fusion Energi photos copyright Auto Trends Magazine.

Filed Under: New Car Reviews Tagged With: 2017 cars, CVT, ELECTRIC VEHICLE, Ford Fusion Energi, front-wheel drive, HYBRIDS, PHEVS, plug-in hybrid

IHS Automotive: Sharp Increase in Electric Vehicles Forecast

February 6, 2014 by admin Leave a Comment

Battery prices fall, making EVs more affordable.

IHS Automotive: BMW i3

BMW i3 is one of several new EV models for 2014.


Electric vehicle adoption continues to grow and 2014 could provide its biggest boost yet, rising by a projected 67 percent for the year. Thats the forecast of IHS Automotive, the business information, insight, and analysis firm that acquired Polk in 2013.

IHS Automotive Forecast

Behind the surge in demand are tighter emissions standards in Europe and increased production including new models from BMW and Fiat. IHS estimates that the total global production of EVs for 2014 will come in at 403,000 units, a number that includes pure electric (electric only) and plug-in electric hybrid vehicles (PHEVs).

The projected increase builds on the 44 percent surge seen in 2013. It also far outpaces the estimated 3.6 percent rise in worldwide production for all vehicles expected for 2014.

And demand is expected to rise across the globe with North and South America generating 30 percent of the share to 40 percent for Europe, Africa and the Middle East. The remaining 30 percent share estimate was for Asia and the Pacific region.

IHS Automotive: Tesla Motors

Tesla is supporting its cars with a global charging network.

Euro 6 Legislation

In Europe, tighter emissions standards come into play in the second half of the year, under the European Commissions new Euro 6 legislation. Ben Scott, analyst for IHS Automotive, noted that manufacturers are lining up with new models to serve consumers beyond the aforementioned BMW i3 and Fiat 500e.

And the expanded product line up should generate a corresponding increase in interest for EVs. Besides Fiat and BMW, the Audi A3 PHEV, Volkswagen e-Up!, and the Mercedes-Benz B-Class Electric are also new to the market. These models will be supported by a broadened electric vehicle charging station network that will add 35,000 charging units to the worldwide pool for 2014.

AC and DC Chargers

New types of chargers are entering the market too and include those that satisfy AC-Type 2 Mode 3, DC-CHAdeMO and DC-CCS standards. They’re known as trio chargers as they meet the three different accepted standards and can be used by all EV models.

Besides AC chargers, the first DC chargers are also hitting the market, a more costlier but more efficient charging option that is expected to drop in price as demand for same increases, chiefly in China and in Europe.

Larger Electric Batteries

Another trend that IHS Automotive has been following are new electric vehicles with larger and more efficient electric batteries. Well see more models equipped with 40kWh batteries, what deliver a range of at least 150 miles. Thats approximately double the range most standard EVs offer today, a move that will remove range anxiety from buyer consideration for more EV shoppers.

Also at play are lower prices driven in part by increased production and a price war that has pitted Panasonic against LG Chem. Panasonic is the battery supplier for Tesla and LG Chem for the Chevrolet Volt. Samsung has also gotten into the market and is the supplier of batteries for BMW and Fiat.

IHS Automotivve

LG Chem provides the electric battery for the Cadillac ELR.

New Technologies Mean Lower Operating Costs

And it isn’t just the battery makers that are delivering efficiencies. Both OEMs and other industry suppliers are finding ways to deliver improved or new products at lower costs, helping to drive down the price of EVs.

For instance, Bosch has developed a new start/stop system that shuts off power to the car and reduces fuel consumption by up to 10 percent. The Ford Motor Company has developed a solar panel that affixes to the roof of the Ford C-MAX Solar Energi Concept, what can provide up to four hours of battery charge daily on sunny days.

IHS Automotive Trends

Other electric auto trends that IHS Automotive has forecast includes consolidation of charging station companies, government-mandated EV sales in China, and a continued downward trend in EV prices although government incentives are critical to help consumers in this effort.

Certainly, 2014 will again be a pivotal year for EV sales, what will constitute about 0.5 percent of the global new vehicle market. Thats a drop in the bucket, but a positive auto trend that supporters will embrace.

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Filed Under: Automotive News Tagged With: BMW I3, electric charging stations, ELECTRIC VEHICLES, Fiat 500e, FORECAST, IHS AUTOMOTIVE, PHEVS

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