Future hybrids
While today's Hybrids use nickel-metal hydride chemistry for the battery, Lithium-ion technology now commonly used in consumer electronics and notebook computers has a higher energy density of 200 watt hours/kg compared with 70 Wh/kg for NiMH chemistry. The dramatically higher energy density will reduce the extra battery weight which a Hybrid has to lug around. Still, the exploding Lithium battery scares of the past years are real fears, so safety issues have to be worked out first.
In addition, aggressive development efforts like the General Motors-DaimlerChrysler Global Hybrid Cooperation Alliance and continued efforts to create diesel engine Hybrids will ensure that hybrid development will be rapid these coming years.
If you're interested in hybrids, buckle up--the best is yet to come. Look for each carmaker to carve out its own niche in this market with sedans, SUVs, and even motorcycles on the drawing board. Take a gander at these upcoming hybrids. And hope that the dealers and manufacturers bring them into Asia!
Mercedes-Benz BlueTec HybridThe BlueTec's hybrid system combines an extremely clean-burning diesel engine with an electric motor, producing a combined 243 horsepower. The car, based on the S-Class, has a governed top speed of 155mph and gets about 31mpg. |
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Mazda Tribute HEV Mazda's hybrid system in its Tribute concept uses an electric motor to run the car at speeds up to 25mph. As in other hybrids, the engine charges the batteries and powers the car at moderate to high speeds. The Tribute Hybrid has a range of 400 miles.
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Subaru B5-TPH The power plant for the three-door hatchback B5 is what Subaru calls a Turbo Parallel Hybrid. Hence, the TPH in the name. Subaru has integrated an electric motor into a turbocharged boxer-style engine powering its all-wheel-drive system.
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Chevrolet Tahoe two-mode hybrid The hybrid version of the Chevrolet Tahoe will see production as a 2008 model. It's a full-size SUV built on a truck body. Its hybrid system, coupled with a cylinder deactivation system, is expected to give it a 25 percent gain in fuel economy over the standard Tahoe.
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Yamaha Gen Ryu concept Although incredibly cool-looking, the Gen Ryu is about much more than aesthetics. Its 600cc engine is supplemented by a high-output electric motor, while the aluminum body decreases weight. For electronics, it has vehicle distance-warning sensors, cornering lighting, voice navigation, and a rearview camera. Noise-canceling speakers in the helmet make route guidance, music, and the handsfree cell phone system all audible over wind noise.
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Yamaha HV-01 concept Another hybrid concept from Yamaha, the HV-01 is a scooter that combines a gasoline engine with an electric motor. With the hybrid system, it can run in full electric mode, making it very quiet. A special mode makes it easy to push by delivering low-power assistance from the motor.
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More Tips for Your Car
Maintain a regular service log to keep your car tip-top
Keep a schedule of regular servicing and checks. The data inside will ensure that the correct parts are always fitted and that your car can be easily repaired even after many years of use.
Regular servicing is essential to keeping your car road-worthy
Have servicing carried out regularly by an authorised workshop - It not only affects the road worthiness of the car but also establishes the foundation for better fuel efficiency and consumption.
Service your engine regularly to save on petrol
A badly tuned engine may use up to 10% more fuel than normal, so regular servicing can actually save you money and engine trouble in the long run. It’s also better for the Earth!
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