Powertrain - February 2019

The latest powertrain innovations for cars and commercial vehicles are featured in this Special Report, a compendium of recent articles from the editors of Automotive Engineering and Truck & Off-Highway Engineering.
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Overview
The Powertrain Special Report from February 2019 offers a comprehensive overview of the latest advancements and trends in automotive powertrain technology. Sponsored by Renishaw, the report emphasizes the critical role of innovative engineering solutions in enhancing vehicle performance, efficiency, and sustainability.
One of the key themes of the report is the integration of multiphysics-based approaches in powertrain development. These methodologies are becoming essential for linking various subsystems, enabling systems-level optimization. Dean Tomazic, CTO at FEV North America, highlights the importance of these approaches in addressing the complex challenges faced by the mobility industry.
The report also discusses the evolution of electric and hybrid powertrains, showcasing how manufacturers are adapting to the growing demand for environmentally friendly vehicles. The unitized drive system for the R1T’s front axle is a notable example, integrating two propulsion motors and their respective transmissions into a single case, which enhances efficiency and reduces weight.
In addition to electric powertrains, the report covers advancements in traditional internal combustion engines, focusing on how manufacturers are leveraging new technologies to improve performance and reduce emissions. The integration of advanced materials and manufacturing techniques is highlighted as a means to achieve these goals.
The SAE MOBILUS™ platform is introduced as a vital resource for engineers and students in the mobility sector. This platform provides access to over 226,000 technical papers, standards, and resources, facilitating research and development in mobility engineering. The intuitive design and powerful search functionalities of SAE MOBILUS™ allow users to easily navigate and find relevant information, making it an essential tool for those involved in the automotive industry.
The report also emphasizes the importance of collaboration and knowledge sharing among industry professionals. Events like Tech Days hosted by FPT Industrial are mentioned as opportunities for showcasing the latest research and development in powertrain technology. These gatherings foster innovation and allow engineers to exchange ideas and best practices.
Furthermore, the report touches on the significance of data analytics and connectivity in modern powertrain systems. As vehicles become more connected, the ability to collect and analyze data in real-time is crucial for optimizing performance and enhancing the driving experience. This trend is expected to continue as the industry moves towards more intelligent and autonomous vehicles.
In conclusion, the Powertrain Special Report from February 2019 provides valuable insights into the current state and future direction of powertrain technology. It highlights the importance of innovation, collaboration, and the integration of advanced technologies in meeting the challenges of the automotive industry. As manufacturers strive to create more efficient, sustainable, and high-performing vehicles, the insights and resources presented in this report will be instrumental in guiding their efforts.

