Closing the hybrid control gap

Virtual sensing, architectural tweaks, and faster processors help engineers narrow the cost gap between hybrid and conventional powertrains.

While hybrid developers use many strategies to trim costs, they're also being challenged to improve reliability and shrink packaging. They're leveraging faster microcontrollers and eliminating sensors to save size and space in hopes of boosting hybrid sales beyond single-digit market shares.

Engineers are tweaking architectures and moving components to new locations as they strive to trim the cost of adding batteries and controls. Faster microprocessors don't just shrink controller sizes, they enable virtual sensing and help design teams meet safety requirements.