Top 10 technologies for 2000

Readers have selected the most interesting technology stories appearing inAutomotive Engineering International during the past year. The rankings are based on reader responses from feature articles and shorter technology items. Some of the stories appear here in shortened form.

A host of “energy hogs” - radio, rear window defroster, and up to 50 control motors for automatic windows and other convenience features - rely on the current 12-V automobile power network. When they all demand power, especially in adverse winter conditions and with insufficient battery charge, the capabilities of current electrical systems are exceeded.

Sachs believes it has solved this problem with its DynaStart system, which makes available enough power for the 42-V power networks of the future. The compact, electronically controlled unit unifies the starter and alternator, making possible automatic start/stop functions, braking-energy recuperation, and improved acceleration (with additional torque on the crankshaft). In addition, it improves vibration damping because it is integrated into the powertrain and it can allow the electrification of auxiliaries previously driven by V-belts (such as pumps and AC compressors), which is possible with a 42-V power network. It can make better use of the available engine power and thus contribute to reducing consumption and emissions by up to 20%, according to Sachs.