Mean while the Japanese figured out how to make hybrids at a prices to sell
to the American public. Seems there is a line waiting for the hybrids now
because of the souring gas prices. Again the big three are slow to answer to
the American public and their sinking sales prove once again they don't have
a clue.
Bill
From: "RobT" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Reply-To: Biofuel@sustainablelists.org
To: <Biofuel@sustainablelists.org>
Subject: RE: [Biofuel] Hybrid Diesel
Date: Tue, 28 Jun 2005 09:47:50 -0400
I worked on the Ford P2000 DIATA diesel hybrid for a few years in the late
90's, as a engine control systems engineer.
It was a research vehicle, part of the PNGV initiative. A pretty cool and
functional hybrid -- a large 4-door car (larger inside than a Taurus) with
reasonable power. I got around 60-70 mpg in real-world driving, a bit
higher on the EPA test cycles.
The engine and hybrid system were all pretty close to currently
in-production stuff, with the exception of batteries and exhaust
aftertreatment. The cost of the vehicle, though, was way high, much to
high
for a marketable car.
To get the weight down to 2000 lbs curb weight, we had expensive aluminum,
magnesium, and titanium components everywhere. Titanium lugnuts? $200
each. Magnesium wheels? $$$$
I doubt it could have been produced for less than $50,000 US, even given
economies of scale. Fun stuff to play with, though.
So, I don't think there is a magic vehicle being hidden from us. I do
agree, though, that that was a heck of an expensive program for the U.S.
taxpayer. IIRC, under PNGV the US gave $70 million to each of the big 3
automakers to come up with these 'possible vehicles'.
-- RobT
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