Engineering & Technology

Michelin, GM Collaborate on Airless Tires

June 5, 2019 by admin 2 Comments

In the near future, checking tire pressure may become a thing of the past thanks to innovative technology. Specifically, tire manufacturer Michelin and the General Motors Company (GM) are collaborating on updated tire technology that will eliminate the risk of flat tires and blowouts in passenger vehicles equipped with Uptis (Unique Puncture-Proof Tire System) tires. The new tires may appear as soon as 2024 on the Chevrolet Bolt EV.

A Chevrolet Bolt EV equipped with Michelin Uptis tires.

Movin’On Summit Announcement

The two manufacturers jointly announced the engineering and technology breakthrough at the Movin’On Summit for sustainable mobility in Montreal on Tuesday. Later this year, the automaker will begin real-world testing and verification of the Uptis Prototype on a Michigan test group of Chevrolet Bolt EVs. The Bolt is GM’s electric vehicle, introduced in 2017 and sporting a 238-mile electric range.

“General Motors is excited about the possibilities that Uptis presents, and we are thrilled to collaborate with Michelin on this breakthrough technology,” said Steve Kiefer, senior vice president, Global Purchasing and Supply Chain, General Motors. “Uptis is an ideal fit for propelling the automotive industry into the future and a great example of how our customers benefit when we collaborate and innovate with our supplier partners.”

Scrappage Reduction; No Replacement Tires

Flats and blowouts are no longer an issue in vehicles equipped with Uptis tires. As a result, the Michelin tires offer a significant tie-in to GM’s goal of reducing the number of raw tires used and resultant waste, which is also related to the automaker’s goal of eventually reaching zero crashes, zero emissions, and zero congestion.

In particular, the new tires will reduce the number of punctured or damaged tires that must be scrapped ahead of the end of their life cycle. Indeed, Michelin estimates that approximately 20 percent of tires are scrapped annually due to punctures or irregular wear.

Further, it also reduces the use of raw materials as the new technology eliminates the need for spare tires. Replacement tires would also not be needed early on in the life cycle.

Michelin’s Uptis tires are designed to eliminate punctures leading to blowouts.

Say Farewell to Blowouts

The Uptis tires are engineered to last longer as they also eliminate irregular wear and tear caused by improper inflation. Related car accidents caused by flats and blowouts will make driving safer for all.

Michelin says its innovative tires are composed of composite rubber and a “proprietary innovative high-strength resin with embedded fiberglass.” These tires are set within an aluminum wheel assembly.

Autonomous and Electric Vehicles

The company says its tires are specially designed for new forms of mobility, including autonomous and electric vehicles. Moreover, Uptis represents a key component of the tire manufacturer’s VISION concept, which comprises four pillars of innovation: airless, connected, 3D-printed and 100% sustainable (renewable and bio-sourced) tires.

As for the Moving’On Summit, this year’s event is the third annual meeting of sustainability. Since its inception, the summit has been backed by Michelin, which also conceived it.

This year’s summit focuses on five themes of significance:

1. Decarbonization and air quality.

2. Multimodal urban transit and society.

3. Innovative technologies.

4. Goods transportation and multimodality.

5. Circular economy.

The summit welcomes thought leaders from around the world who engage in working sessions, group discussions, and presentations. It also includes “brain dates” whereby participants are paired for 30-minute discussions to share one-to-one ideas based on common interests.

Lastly, the conference includes opportunities for participants to take a seat on zero-emission electric buses and test drive such vehicles as the Toyota Mirai, BMW I8 Roadster, and the BMW IS3 REX.

See Also — Tire Sidewall Code Deciphering 101

Photos coyright GM Company.

Longer Range Nissan Leaf Debuts at CES

January 9, 2019 by admin

Enhanced Leaf model extends vehicle range.

Nissan Leaf e+ — Nissan’s Leaf is now joined by an extended range “e+” model.

The Nissan Leaf remains the world’s most popular electric vehicle, but the number of competitors on the market continues to rise even as gas prices plummet. For its part, Nissan continues to tweak the Leaf and will soon offer an extended range e+ model, following the product’s introduction this week at CES in Las Vegas.

The former Consumer Electronics Show is now an important stop in the auto show circuit, allowing automakers such as Nissan to showcase their wares. Tech-laden electric vehicles, such as the Nissan Leaf, are particularly popular there, as they demonstrate the latest and greatest offerings and concepts from the industry.

The Range-Extended Nissan Leaf

For the Nissan Leaf, the “e+” designation describes the increased energy density of this model’s 62-kilowatt battery pack as well as the higher output of the powertrain. As a result, the electric range is now 40 percent longer, supplying up to 226 miles of range.

2019 Nissan Leaf e+ “The new Nissan LEAF e+ offers all of the style, convenience and electric vehicle benefits that have helped make LEAF the best-selling electric vehicle in the world, plus even more driving excitement, range, power and choice,” said Denis Le Vot, senior vice president and chairman, Nissan North America. “Customers now have a selection of powertrains and models to best suit their driving needs.”

Nissan intends to market the enhanced Leaf under the LEAF PLUS Series umbrella in the United States and Canada. Each trim level will receive its own special designation, including S PLUS, SV PLUS, and SL Plus. Elsewhere, Nissan will simply market the vehicle as the Nissan Leaf e+.

More Powerful Powertrain

As for the Leaf’s all-electric powertrain, it is composed of a higher-capacity battery and a more powerful 160-kilowatt motor, resulting in 45 percent more power and a robust 250 pound-feet of torque. This means that at driving speeds, owners will notice a 13-percent boost in speed when going from 50 to 75 mph. Moreover, the model’s top speed increases by 10 percent thanks to the changes.

The boosted Leaf also benefits from a newly-available 70-100-kilowatt Quick Charging system, which allows the Leaf e+ to charge just as fast as models not similarly equipped. This is especially impressive as battery capacity is 55-percent larger than the standard Leaf. Further, even with the 25-percent increase in energy density and the enhanced energy storage capacity, the Leaf e+ battery pack is nearly the same size as the standard Leaf’s pack.

Nissan Leaf e+

ProPILOT Assist and e-Pedal

Other significant features of the Leaf e+ is its ProPILOT Assist, semi-autonomous driving system. When activated, the system automatically adjusts the speed of this electric vehicle, anytime when cruise control is set anywhere between 18 and 62 mph. The system helps the driver steer and keep the electric vehicle centered in the lane. Furthermore, when the car in front slows down or stops, the system does likewise for the Leaf. Auto Trends has tested this feature in several products, including most recently in the Nissan Rogue. We can attest to its effectiveness.

Another important feature of all Leaf models is its e-Pedal operation. The system allows the driver to start, accelerate, decelerate and stop, using only the accelerator pedal. In effect, it serves as an automatic braking system which also supplies regenerative braking (kinetic energy) that supplies electricity to the battery. Thus, battery range is maximized, enabling drivers to gain a few extra miles before needing to replenish same.

Pricing and Release Date

Pricing for the enhanced Leaf will be announced just ahead of its U.S. debut this spring. As for the standard Leaf, it costs $30,875, including an $885 destination charge. Federal, state and local incentives may reduce your costs further.

As for the Leaf’s extended range, this will help Nissan better compete in a segment where 250+ miles is the new normal. Other models, such as the Chevrolet Bolt, Tesla Model 3, and the Hyundai Kona EV feature longer ranges. For its part, Nissan appears to be banking on the model’s popularity to help keep it on top in this growing segment.

See Also — Electric Avenue: BMW 740e

Upcoming Cadillac CT6 Will Feature Streaming Video

December 22, 2014 by admin 1 Comment

Display expands rearward vision by 300 percent.

The CT6’s rear view mirror as it provides video streaming.

One of the most anticipated new cars from Cadillac is the CT6, a high-end full-size sedan set to debut in late 2016. Parent GM has promised to elevate Cadillac to the top of the mass-produced luxury segment and the new model will help move it in that direction.

We’ve been learning a little bit here and there about the sedan that will take on the likes of the BMW 7 Series, Audi A8, Lexus LS and Mercedes-Benz S-Class, but much of those details have been shrouded in relative secrecy.

High-Resolution Streaming Video

Last week, Cadillac shared some news to pique interest in the CT6 and that is the inclusion of a high-resolution streaming video to the function of the rear view mirror. Cadillac says that the technology will eliminate the usual sight obstructions drivers face, including front and rear sitting passengers, their head rests, as well as the front, center and rear pillars.

Cadillac claims that the video will provide a vantage point for drivers similar to what is experienced when operating a convertible with its top down. “In addition to the increased field of view, the technology eliminates any rear seat, rear pillar or passenger obstructions, allowing the driver an unimpeded view of the lanes behind and traditional blind spots,” explained Travis Hester, Cadillac CT6 executive chief engineer.

Utilizing a camera with a high dynamic range, the video feed will reduce glare and permit a sharper image in low-light circumstances. That makes for a marked improvement over automatic dimming rear view mirrors.

The video will show up within the mirror and offer a 1280- by 240-pixel TFT-LCD display with 171 pixels per inch and combine that with an HD camera specifically designed to meliorate rear view lane width and to magnify low-light situations.

Eliminating Water Problems

Rain and other water conditions can wreck even the best intentioned plans. Unlike most rear view cameras that become clouded or otherwise obscured due to water, the Cadillac CT6 will make use of a water-shedding hydrophobic coating, applied to the camera to keep it clean under all driving circumstances. This is important, because under foul weather conditions, the benefit of streaming video would likewise be eliminated.

Cadillac acquired 10 patents for its innovative streaming video technology. One patent was received for the streaming video mirror itself; the other nine were for video processing, including glare reduction, dewarping and the camera hardware design.

Video Deactivation Possible

Rest assured, if you buy a CT6 and decide at any time that you don’t want to use the streaming video you will be able to deactivate same by flipping a toggle found on the underside of the rear view mirror. The unit will then immediately transition to an electrochromatic rear view mirror.

The CT6 is a rear-wheel drive model with optional all-wheel drive. The sedan will make use of lightweight materials as well as new body construction techniques to improve vehicle drive dynamics and safety with the added benefit of reducing fuel consumption. It will be built upon an all-new vehicle architecture separate from its other car lines.

When the CT6 debuts, it will also begin a change in Cadillac’s naming convention. All future car models will adopt the new nomenclature when revised models are introduced. This will include the current ATS, CTS and XTS. Crossovers and sport utility vehicles will also gain new names and the transition should be completed by about 2020.

Photo courtesy of GM Corp.

Lower Fuel Prices Will Have No Effect on Big Three Innovation

December 9, 2014 by admin 1 Comment

GM, Ford and Chrysler Embrace Fuel Saving Innovation.

Fuel prices are continuing to fall, dropping below $2.50 per gallon for regular grade gasoline in some areas. That’s just the kind of move that has some shoppers looking at larger and less efficient vehicles, perhaps advancing certain auto trends not yet foreseen. The drop in fuel prices, expected to last for several years, won’t stop car manufacturers from innovating, however. Instead, there are a number of changes underfoot that will continue even if gas prices continue to trend downward.

Updated Engines for Chrysler

Ram 1500 innovation.

This small diesel powers select Ram 1500 models.

Of all the major manufacturers, the Chrysler Group has the heaviest exposure to larger vehicles. That’s good for profits, but it is bad in helping the company reach mandated corporate average fuel economy (CAFE) ratings. The problem becomes magnified in each succeeding year up to 2025, when manufacturers must find a way to produce and sell passenger vehicles averaging 54.5 miles per gallon.

Chrysler needs to move away from V-8 engines or at least offer powerful, smaller engines that can step in as well. At present it has a pair of V-6 engines that are likely to play a much larger role in helping Chrysler reach its goals. Specifically, Pentastar family engines displacing at 3.2 and 3.6 liters will receive important innovations.

Those upgrades will bring in a host of technologies such as turbocharging and direct injection notes AllPar.com. Ford makes use of these technologies in its EcoBoost engines, enabling it to provide smaller and more efficient engines with no loss in overall power. Currently, both Pentastar engines are naturally aspirated; making new technologies available will mean supplementing its current V-8 line of HEMI engines. Eventually, those larger engines might be dropped as the CAFE mandates are raised.

Continuously Variable Transmission for Ford

CVT innovation.

Toyota pairs its 1.8-liter engine with a CVT.

Just as Toyota added a continuously variable transmission (CVT) to the Corolla line beginning in 2014 and has enjoyed a nice boost in fuel economy, Ford may do likewise with some of its own models reports Automotive News. Much attention has been directed Ford’s way with the upcoming release of 9- and 10-speed transmissions. Those transmissions, however, will be paired with its larger engines.

A CVT could find its way in such cars as the Ford Focus and Fiesta. Certain versions of those models already get at least 40 mpg on the highway and a CVT could advance those numbers. CVT technology has been used by Nissan for more than 20 years, but other automakers have had mixed results, in part because of consumer hesitancy.

For instance, CVTs don’t use gear points as do standard automatic transmissions and cause a rubber band effect when pressing on the accelerator that returns a pulling sensation. Engines tend to sound louder and the resultant transmission lag annoys some people. Toyota has found a way to limit that sensation and that could be something Ford has figured out too.

GM Does Diesels

As gas prices fall, diesel prices drop too. Still, diesel fuel now carries a mark up of about 20 percent even as such engines are 30 to 35 percent more fuel efficient than comparable gas engines.

Chevrolet Cruze innovation

GM continues to use diesels in smaller vehicles including Cruze.

GM has long been committed to diesels with its heavy-duty pickup trucks. It also offers a diesel variant for the Chevrolet Cruze. Come 2015 and you will see an expanded diesel application in its midsize pickup trucks — Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon. But it may not stop there.

Indeed, ever since the Ram 1500 received a 3.0-liter six cylinder diesel option, competing automakers have been studying doing likewise. GM, along with its Isuzu partner, jointly manage DMAX — a company that produces the 6.6-liter turbo diesel V-8 engine found in heavy-duty Chevrolet and GMC pickup trucks. A 2.8-liter turbo diesel four will power the midsize trucks; a 2.5-liter turbo diesel four is available in other markets, such as in Thailand.

What GM needs is a V-6 diesel motor and it once has access to one when it shared ownership of VM Motori with Fiat. In Oct. 2013, Fiat acquired GM’s 50 percent share in the company, effectively shutting GM out of the market. Still, GM likely has a V-6 turbo diesel on its drawing board, perhaps based on the smaller fours and measuring about 3.8 liters. Expect GM to green light production if diesel demand increases, but perhaps not until fuel prices are raised across the board again.

Big Three Innovation

Although engines and transmissions will play a significant role in improving fuel economy, further innovations will come through vehicle lightweighting. We’re seeing some of that right now in the aluminum-bodied 2015 Ford F-150. Ford’s competitors — domestic and foreign — are responding by choosing high-strength, but lighter weight steel, carbon fiber and are pursuing other fuel saving initiatives. These efforts will continue even as uel prices are sinking, what is likely to prove a temporary pull back as automakers prepare for much higher CAFE standards.

Infotainment Systems Take a Beating in Latest Consumer Reports Survey

October 29, 2014 by admin 1 Comment

The Consumer Reports 2014 Annual Reliability Survey is out, what paints a highly critical and negative picture of in-car technologies, particularly infotainment systems. Such systems typically provide audio, information and navigation access, but often do not deliver as promised. Instead, users may find these systems confusing, unreliable or simply unworkable, leading Consumer Reports (CR) to say that they present a “growing reliability plague” for manufacturers.

Consumer Reports took exception with the Infiniti QX60.

Problem First-Year Models

CR especially pointed to flaws found in first-year models for several brands, including Cadillac, Ford, Honda, Infiniti, Fiat, Jeep and Ram, with each having numerous bugs and glitches in their infotainment systems. CR surveyed owners of more than 1.1 million new vehicles, identifying 17 problem areas. Topping the list were in-car electronics, easily outpacing consumer complaints in other areas.

As before, CR found that the Asian brands usually outperformed all others with the American brands finishing far down the pack. Most European brands were in the middle of the pack or toward the end. Audi, however, continues to excel, finishing in the fifth spot for the second consecutive year. Porsche took the ninth position.

Lexus, Toyota, Mazda and Honda nabbed the top four spots. Following Audi, Buick, Subaru, Scion, Porsche and Kia rounded out the top 10. Fiat Chrysler, however, took the last four spots of the 28 brands surveyed with Dodge, Ram, Jeep and Fiat rounding out the group.

And if you think technologies are the sole problem, CR insists otherwise. “Infotainment system problems generally don’t exist in a vacuum,” said Jake Fisher, director of automotive testing at Consumer Reports, “A close look at the results suggests that cars with a lot of in-car electronic issues usually have plenty of other troubles, too.”

Chrysler Defies the Odds With Strong Sales

Despite the apparent quality issues, Fiat Chrysler continues to thrive. Indeed, the Chrysler Group has experienced 54 consecutive months of year-over-year sales increases through Sept. 2014. Chrysler Group sales are up 15 percent for the year, nearly three times the industry average. The Chrysler Group is seeing Jeep sales up by 45 percent and Ram sales up by 25 percent for the year.

For its report, CR gathered data for 248 models, looking at 17 potential problem areas. From its survey it has been able to accurately point out future problems owners may have with their new vehicles as well as to spot trends.

One trend that isn’t boding well for Infiniti is the reliability of two of its models: the new Q50 sedans and the QX60 crossover. Both models have had their share of problems, causing Infiniti to take the largest plunge of any brand, falling from 6th place last year to the 20th position this year.

Improved Infotainment Systems

CR did find that some manufacturers are making changes that have made their infotainment systems easier to use. CR has criticized Ford and Lincoln for their technologies, but the two Ford Motor Company brands have made steady improvements ever since the organization slammed the 2011 Ford Explorer’s quality. While Ford rose three positions this year, Lincoln had the largest year-over-year increase of any brand, jumping 12 positions to the 15th spot.

Mercedes-Benz fell 11 spots on the heels of introducing its CLA-Class sedan and high-end S-Class. A few of its models, including the GLK utility vehicle and the E-Class V-6 sedan, outperformed the market.

Poor Performers by Segment

American manufacturers need to pay closer attention to certain segments where these vehicles are not performing up to par. CR found that the subcompact Chevy Sonic, the compact Chevy Cruze, the compact Ford Focus and the compact Dodge Dart turbo each performed below average. Large pickup trucks have been a problem too with the Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra and Ram 1500 each performing below average.

Flummoxed by New Car Technology? You Are Not Alone.

September 2, 2014 by admin 1 Comment

J.D. Power 2014 Multimedia Quality and Satisfaction Study reveals much.

New car owners love their technologies, but only when they work right. Today’s cars offer a varying range of audio, communication, entertainment and navigation (ACEN) systems with hand touches, finger gestures, buttons, knobs and voice commands among the ways that we communicate with our cars.

infotainment system technology

ACEN Systems: Not so Hot Technology

As ideal as the technology is, it may not always work according to promise. Those problems are something that were confirmed in the J.D. Power 2014 Multimedia Quality and Satisfaction Study released last week. The study queried vehicle owners about their experiences and opinion of ACEN systems during their first 90 days of ownership with a focus on quality, design and the features offered.

As is customary with similar J.D. Power surveys, the company assigns a score based on the number of problems per 100 vehicles tested or PP100. The lower the score, the higher the quality. Typically, those scores look at particular makes and models, but with this survey the study returned net results — no manufacturers were identified.

Chevrolet Silverado infotainment system technology

Technology Problems Per 100 Vehicles

For 2014, the problems with built-in voice recognition averaged 8.3 PP100, rising from 7.6 PP100 in 2013. Vehicle owners cited three significant problems with voice recognition communication issues:

1. ACEN doesn’t recognize or misinterprets verbal commands — identified by 63 percent of respondents;

2. ACEN doesn’t recognize or misinterprets names/words — identified by 44 percent of respondents; and

3. ACEN doesn’t recognize or misinterprets numbers — identified by 31percent of respondents.

Customers may experience one, two or all three problems.

ACEN problems have grown in recent years as such systems are adopted by car manufacturers. The problems have eclipsed other vehicle woes including wind noise, Bluetooth connectivity and navigation issues.

Fixable or Not?

Unlike many vehicle problems, voice recognition and device connectivity problems cannot be fixed at the dealer level. They represent a technological design that may or may not be repairable with a software upgrade. Instead, vehicle owners may have to make do with the shortcomings or find alternate use options such as buttons and knobs. That’s the advice of Mike VanNieuwkuyk, executive director of global automotive at J.D. Power, who confirmed, “Despite having alternative controls, this problem still negatively impacts owner satisfaction.”

VanNieuwkuyk noted that manufacturers continue to build voice recognition and connectivity systems that fall short of customer expectations. The poor results follow good manufacturer intentions, but does little to promote owner satisfaction.

Bluetooth Connectivity Issues

J.D. Power found that Bluetooth connectivity problems loom large for many buyers, although the study revealed an improvement in quality based on a score of 5.7 PP100, down from 6.3 PP100 the previous year. The two largest connectivity problems were the system’s inability to recognize or connect the mobile phone or device, a problem in 40 percent of the complaints. Another 30 percent cited problems with automatically connecting when entering the vehicle. Just over half of the owners said that they have iPhone OS smart phones; 41 percent reportedly use an Android phone.

Troubles aside, 70 percent of new-vehicle owners are interested in built-in recognition. That number falls to 44 percent if the system costs at least $500. Thus, building an affordable and working system may help manufacturers win new customers.

J.D. Power surveyed 86,114 new car owners between Feb. and May 2014, with a focus on navigation, voice recognition, rear-seat entertainment and speakers. Respondents were also supplied with sourcing information to enable owners to review data and parse information about individual products and components.

Other Studies

J.D. Power: Powertrain Problems Impact Quality

J.D. Power: Porsche is the Top Brand for Initial Quality

Photos copyright Auto Trends Magazine.

UC Davis Study Shows Confidence in Hydrogen

August 20, 2014 by admin 2 Comments

Report offers support for an emerging infrastructure.

Toyota Mirai. — The Toyota Mirai fuel cell arrives on the market in April 2015.

A new study from the Institute of Transportation Studies at the University of California, Davis, sees tremendous promise in hydrogen vehicles. The study says that fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) may be just a few years, not decades behind conventional electric vehicles, as the state of California partners with industry to construct much-needed fueling stations.

The Hydrogen Transition

Titled, “The Hydrogen Transition,” the study’s researchers believe that a “convergence of factors” are at work to advance the market introduction of FCEVs, at least in California. Indeed, by clustering the hydrogen fuel cell infrastructure in regional areas, costs will be greatly reduced and an early market established before it is deployed nationally.

Hyundai Tucson FCV — Hyundai’s Tucson Fuel Cell is available for lease in California.

The study noted that government and industry collaboration is already driving down vehicle and hydrogen station component costs as new vehicles come to the market. Several manufacturers have been testing small groups of prototype or production vehicles for years. Just this spring, Hyundai introduced its Tucson Fuel Cell, the first mass-produced model to hit the market. Next year, Toyota will bring its own vehicle to the market and other manufacturers have promised to do the same.

“We seem to be tantalizingly close to the beginning of a hydrogen transition,” said lead author Joan Ogden, professor of environmental science and policy and director of the Sustainable Transportation Energy Pathways (NextSTEPS). “The next three to four years will be critical for determining whether hydrogen vehicles are just a few years behind electric vehicles, rather than decades.”

Building Out an Infrastructure

hydrogen fueling station

A California hydrogen fueling station built by Toyota.

Besides the steep manufacturing costs that has made FCEV production cost prohibitive, a nonexistent infrastructure has also slowed the transition. Indeed, until this year, there were only 11 fueling stations in the United States, with nearly all of them concentrated in Southern California.

Various public-private partnerships have emerged just this year to build a hydrogen infrastructure in California. That collaboration is reducing design costs, what is giving manufacturers and consumers alike the confidence that hydrogen may take hold.

The Davis researchers have estimated that a $100 to $200 million regional investment would make hydrogen cost effective for up to 50,000 vehicles supported by 100 fueling stations. Reaching that threshold would make hydrogen competitive with gasoline on a cost-per-mile basis, according to the study.

Government Backing in Place

Already, California has made a financial commitment of $46 million to build 28 fueling stations. The governments of Japan and Germany are making similar investments in their respective infrastructures.

This past May, Auto Trends reported that Toyota agreed to invest an unspecified amount of money to help bolster California’s infrastructure. The automaker is also partnering with Linde LLC to build a hydrogen fuel station on its property in San Ramon, just outside of San Francisco.

Hydrogen Deployment Highlights

The 53-page report looked at several other points related to hydrogen deployment.

The researchers concluded that effective public policies will go far in developing infrastructure with consumer incentives paving the way toward acceptance. Just as the current crop of electric vehicles come with benefits such as tax credits, free parking and access to High Occupancy Vehicle lanes, FCEV owners might also receive the same.

A recent boom in low-cost natural gas will have a corresponding effect in keeping hydrogen costs affordable. As for national benefits, the researchers found that the subsequent reduction in air pollution, climate change and oil dependence will outweigh the transition costs by a factor of 10 to 1.

The study also noted that automakers are already heavily invested in FCEVs, having committed more than $9 billion thus far. The US Department of Energy says that its own investments have encouraged private sources to jump in, who have spent 6 to 9 times the government contribution.

Tesla Model S. — FCEVs may pose a challenge to Tesla Motors as its Model S.

FCEV Detractors

Despite the billon dollar efforts to build a hydrogen infrastructure, the industry is not without its detractors. Elon Musk, chairman of Tesla Motors, is a strident critic having called fuel cells “fool cells” and a “load of rubbish” reports Bloomberg. Then again, Musk may have the most to lose if FCEVs catch on as his own company is heavily invested in EVs.

Photos courtesy of the respective manufacturer.

Blue Oval, Ketchup King Seek Tomato Bliss

June 12, 2014 by admin 4 Comments

Ford and Heinz tie one on.

While some cars may be called lemons, a term no automaker wants ascribed to their products, future buyers may call one or more Ford products a tomato. That’s right, as in the nightshade family of fruit (or is it a vegetable?) that is a staple of our diets.

The Ford Motor Company (blue oval) and ketchup king H.J. Heinz Company are teaming up to see how tomatoes might be used in automotive development. Specifically, Heinz-supplied tomato fiber may someday be used as a bio-plastic material in select Ford vehicles.

Repurposing Tomato Fiber

Ford and Heinz researchers believe that they are on to something special as tomato fiber has the potential to be used to make storage bins in a Ford vehicle, one suitable for holding coins and other small objects. Developing wiring brackets are another possibility that Ford is exploring.

“We are exploring whether this food processing byproduct makes sense for an automotive application,” said Ellen Lee, plastics research technical specialist for Ford. “Our goal is to develop a strong, lightweight material that meets our vehicle requirements, while at the same time reducing our overall environmental impact.”

Ford Heinz Ketchup Tomato

Ford’s collaboration with other nonautomotive titans has been going on for some time. Its partnership with Heinz goes back two years and probably much longer than that when you take into consideration the ketchup packets used in Ford cafeterias the world over.

Besides Heinz, Ford is also collaborating with Nike, Inc., Proctor Gamble and the Coca-Cola Company to produce 100 percent plant-based plastic, in an effort to replace petroleum-derived plastics used widely in production today. Fabrics, packaging and an assortment of other materials and products may soon achieve sustainability nirvana, a move that would allow Ford and its partners to advance their respective green credentials.

Heinz Hands Ford a Tomato

Heinz approached Ford in a bid to find ways to make use of tomato waste, specifically the seeds, stems and peels that are extracted from the two million tons of tomatoes the company produces each year. And that is for its ketchup product only.

“We are delighted that the technology has been validated,” said Vidhu Nagpal, associate director, packaging RD for Heinz. “Although we are in the very early stages of research, and many questions remain, we are excited about the possibilities this could produce for both Heinz and Ford, and the advancement of sustainable 100% plant-based plastics.”

Ford, like many other manufacturers across all industries, is looking for ways to become more sustainable. It is an effort that can save companies money, reduce waste and shine the light on a practice that has been growing steam in recent years. Besides, who wants to carry the blame that their company melted the polar ice caps?

Soy, Rice and Cellulose Too

Ford’s pursuit of petroleum options can be seen in other products. In 2010, the automaker started to use soy-based foam seat cushions with its Ford Fusion Hybrid.

More recently, Ford began to make use of rice hull-filled electrical cowl brackets and cellulose fiber-reinforced console components, among eight bio-based products it says are now in production.

Additional Sustainability Articles

Sweetwater Energy, Front Range Ink $100MM Deal

Off the Cliff: NASCAR, Algae Growers Benefit

Counsel Advises Prudent Development of Natural Resources

Chart courtesy of the Ford Motor Company.

Ford to Share Inflatable Safety Belt Love

May 29, 2014 by admin 1 Comment

Innovative seat belts provide enhanced crash protection.

Nearly five years have passed since Auto Trends first shared news about Ford’s inflatable safety belt technology. This writer called the technology “nifty” in recognition of the innovative thinking and engineering behind this important safety device.

Over the intervening years, Ford has introduced inflatable seat belts to several Ford and Lincoln models, and has plans to make them available with the next generation Ford F-150 arriving later this year. Inflatable safety belts are available for second row, outboard seating passengers only.

Inflatable Safety Belts

Inflatable seat belts deploy in the same way as regular airbags: in an accident and within 40 milliseconds following an accident. These belts inflate with cold compressed air and provide protection for the occupant’s torso and shoulders.

Ford says that the safety belts spread crash forces across and up to five times the area of conventional seat belts. Specifically, pressure is spread across a passenger’s chest; the safety belts help to control head and neck motion. Moreover, they look and operate just like regular seat belts and can be used in conjunction with both infant car seats and child booster seats.

Technology to License

The Ford Motor Company patented its inflatable seat belts and is the only car manufacturer offering them. However, it is willing to license the technology to other companies including competing car manufacturers in a bid to reduce injuries everywhere.

And not just passenger vehicles can make use of inflatable safety belts. Ford says that that military vehicles, boats and aircraft might also benefit from the technology.

Ford’s longstanding commitment to democratizing technology goes beyond our customers,” said Bill Coughlin, president and CEO, Ford Global Technologies. “In this case, the wider adoption of inflatable safety belts has the potential to make travel safer and help mitigate passenger injuries – especially among children and the elderly.”

To prepare inflatable seat belts for licensing, Ford purchased additional safety patents from United Technologies Corp. Ford is also working with the AutoHarvest Foundation, a nonprofit organization that advocates for collaboration of innovative technologies including advanced manufacturing intellectual property.

Additional Licenses Available

Ford has several other patented technologies it is willing to license as well. Its roll stability control or RSC system utilizes sensors that provide steady surveillance of a vehicle’s movement in relation to the road surface. Braking is automatically applied and/or engine power reduced if a rollover situation is detected.

Ford’s belt minder system reminds people to buckle up and has received plaudits from both the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for its success. Other licensable technologies include a surveillance mode for law enforcement and a driver alert warning system that senses when the driver has become distracted.

Additional Safety Articles

Nifty Idea: Inflatable Seat Belts!

IIHS Research Underscores Child Safety Seat Problems

The Rise of Automotive Safety Features

How is Tech Making Car Travel Safer?

Chart courtesy of the Ford Motor Company.

California Hydrogen Refueling Network Receives Backing From Toyota

May 8, 2014 by admin 4 Comments

Toyota hydrogen fuel cell concept

Hydrogen-powered cars are not some futuristic concept. Prototypes of these vehicles have been on the road for many years particularly in Southern California. Although few in number, fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) availability and growth is about to take off as Toyota, Hyundai, Mercedes-Benz and others will be bringing production-ready vehicles to the market this year and next.

Building an Infrastructure

For its part, Toyota is collaborating with companies in California to help the Golden State develop a hydrogen refueling station infrastructure. Without a basic infrastructure in place there is little chance that consumers will jump in except for a few early adopters. Even so, pricing for these vehicles is expected to range from about $50,000 to as much as $100,000, well above the average price of a new vehicle ($31,200) and higher than the cost of pure electric vehicles.

As of May 2014, there are just 11 hydrogen stations in the United States, with nine clustered in Southern California. Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. (TMS) and its affiliate Toyota Motor Credit Corporation (TMCC) announced earlier this month that they entered into a financial agreement with FirstElement Fuel Inc. (FE) to provide financial backing for “the long-term operation and maintenance expenses of new hydrogen refueling stations in California.”

Hydrogen Network Collaboration

Toyota’s precise investment has yet to be determined. The company will first analyze a grant awarded to FE by the California Energy Commission to build a pair of refueling stations in Los Angeles as well as 17 more across the state. The state is expected to approve taxpayer financial backing in June with Toyota following with its own contribution.

Bob Carter, senior vice president, Automotive Operations, TMS stressed that it isn’t the number of stations that will matter, but the location of these operations. In a related press briefing Carter noted that the infrastructure will be built as car manufacturers, energy providers, government and academia cooperate to make it happen.

Carter noted that California is doing its part to build the infrastructure, offering to invest $200 million to build 100 stations with FirstElement doing the work. Said Carter, “The first few years here in California will be a critical period for hydrogen fuel cell technology.” About his company’s participation he said, “…we are showing the future owners of this amazing technology that Toyota is helping to ensure that hydrogen refueling will be available, no matter what car brand is on the hood.”

Toyota also announced that it is working with another company, Linde LLC, to build a hydrogen fueling station on TMS property in San Ramon, California, not far from its San Francisco regional office. Toyota sees that plant as providing a vital bridge between Sacramento, San Joaquin and San Francisco.

Hyundai Fuel Cell Vehicle

It isn’t just in supporting a hydrogen refueling network where manufacturers will be aiding the fuel cell cause. Hyundai, set to introduce the Tucson Fuel Cell crossover this spring, has developed an attractive 36-month leasing arrangement. For $499 per month, lessees can get behind the wheel of a Hyundai FCEV with fuel and maintenance costs included. Another $2,999 is due at signing.

Hyundai says that when the time comes for one of its FCEVs to be serviced they will pick up the vehicle, have it serviced and returned to the customer. That’s the same level of service Hyundai Equus owners already enjoy.

Toyota FCEV

Toyota’s history with FCEVs began in 1992 followed by its first model in 1996. That vehicle came equipped with a proprietary fuel cell stack and a hydrogen-absorbing fuel tank. Notably, its test FCEV came out a full year before its hybrid Prius was introduced in Japan.

In 2002, Toyota began testing a fuel cell hybrid vehicle (FCHV) in California, a prototype that is now in its third generation. Toyota has been partnering with California universities, government agencies and private companies, testing more than 100 of these vehicles.

Toyota’s fuel cell system is much like the current hybrid synergy drive system found in the Prius and its many other hybrid vehicles. Instead of a gasoline engine, a fuel cell stack is used, one that combines with oxygen to produce the electricity to power the vehicle. Its only emission is water vapor.

Toyota has yet to announce pricing for its vehicle. That model has an early 2015 target date, a vehicle with a 300-mile driving range. “This is just a start, but it’s the first step in getting to the point in the near future where this technology will move into the mainstream,” said Carter.