GM prototypes two-mode transmission for FWD plug-in hybrid vehicles

GM prototypes two-mode transmission for FWD plug-in hybrid vehicles: "

Filed under: Emerging Technologies, EV/Plug-in, Hybrid

General Motors has developed a prototype of its existing two-mode transmission (2MH4EV) specifically designed for front-wheel drive, plug-in hybrid vehicles. At the 2011 SAE World Congress, GM outlined the operation of this prototype transmission, claiming that the unit adds an input-brake clutch to the automaker's existing two-mode system that enables enhanced electric vehicle capability.



GM says that the trans features two additional electric-only modes - EV1 and EV2 - that allow a plug-in hybrid to tackle urban driving using only battery power. EV1 allows the vehicle to operate in electric-only mode in low-speed driving conditions, while EV2 makes it possible to drive at higher speeds using only battery power. GM explains the operation its two-mode prototype trans like this:

In addition to the existing engine-on operating modes EVT1, EVT2 and fixed gears FG1, FG2, FG3 and FG4 as well as the low-speed electric-only mode EV0, the two new electric-only modes EV1 and EV2 cover the entire low-torque, low-speed region assuming a sufficient amount of battery power.

GM says that it has fitted one of its vehicle with this prototype trans and has already tested and refined it, implying that this two-mode is almost ready for action.



[Source: Green Car Congress]

GM prototypes two-mode transmission for FWD plug-in hybrid vehicles originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 26 Apr 2011 11:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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