Technology shifts to overdrive

The benefits of advanced engine technologies cannot be fully realized unless the right mechanism is used to transfer power and torque to the wheels.

The relentless quest to do more for less underscores the importance of having vehicle systems functioning together to accomplish a specific mission. As the automotive industry supports a staunch environmental attitude, notably evident by a full-throttle emphasis on improving fuel economy, the do-it-all mindset takes on a renewed sense of urgency.

“The engine guys have carried the load for delivering fuel economy,” said Ernest DeVincent, Jr., Department Manager for Transmission/Driveline Research & Advanced Engineering at Ford Motor Co., during an SAE International “Emerging Transmission Technologies” TOPTEC (Topical/Technical) Symposium. Sharing the responsibilities for delivering improved fuel economy is vital since any fuel-management scenario that is entirely dependent on engine technology essentially diminishes the end result.