There are a lot of projects that are focusing on the use of propulsion technology at the moment, and could soon become one of the next biggest trending technologies to hit the world. Some of the most popular that may just change the world as we know it is listed below:
Silicon Anode Batteries: Because silicon can absorb more electrons than most other metals used in batteries, it is becoming increasingly popular within the automotive industry. More car manufacturers including Nissan are developing silicon-based batteries that could boost the efficiency of electric batteries by as much as 40 percent over the next five to ten years.
Electric Superchargers: Electric Superchargers are almost instantaneous in their ability to fire up as the battery can eliminate lag by spinning it. They are far more efficient than traditional superchargers.
Advanced Cylinder Deactivation: This is now much more common practice than ever before and will involve varying numbers of cylinders firing upon different driving conditions and could cut fuel costs by as much as 15 percent.
Variable Compression Ratio: This method of varying the compression ratio within the engine could increase efficiency massively. It is based on the Atkinson cycle of keeping the intake valve open longer to reduce compression and closing it sooner to increase it.
48-Volt Electrical Systems: These new mild hybrids allow up to 70 percent more efficiency than a traditional system and at 30 percent of the cost. Although made with slightly cheaper materials, they still allow great features such as electric power boost, regenerative braking, and stop-start functionality.
Camshaft-Less Engines: Although not many have attempted this yet, it is a rising theme and just this year Koenigsegg introduced its version with the FreeValve prototype engine. With the move towards 48-volt systems with fewer cylinders and valves to worry about we could be seeing much more of these soon.
Fuel-Cell Plug-In Hybrids: Although still relatively expensive, this type of technology is becoming more efficient all the time. Both Ford and Mercedes are working on plug-in based fuel-cell systems, and we should see some of these new vehicles as early as 2017.
Turbine Plug-In Hybrid: These have been designed with the bigger haulage type vehicles in mind and can carry enough power to last up to 30 miles per charge. They can run on almost anything you can burn and are very efficient in terms of heavy payloads.
Homogenous Charge Compression Ignition (HCCI): This type of engine takes the best of both the Otto engine and diesel cycles and combines them together. It will run on gasoline but use incoming heat to ignite the fuel like that of diesel. They have the ability to improve efficiency up to 15 percent but are still a good few years away from being made available.
Conformable Hydrogen Storage Tanks: While hydrogen is a great way to go in fuelling cars, it’s not the easiest thing to store. But, ongoing research projects into this possibility are looking hopeful. San Francisco start-up Volute has designed a storage system that consists of some cylinders that link together to allow more flexibility and practicality when fitting in motor vehicles.
Solid-State Batteries: These batteries are fitted with a crystalline electrolyte material that can pass electrons quickly and doesn’t degrade. Essentially, these batteries can last much longer and cost much less than traditional batteries that are available.
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