Best cars for fuel efficiency

Belt based technology is also becoming more popular to replace the chain type technology used in car engines. An example of this would be the timing belt driven starter generator which reduces the fuel consumption to 5 to 10%. Its purpose is to transmit torque between the combustion engine and a electric motor and allow a smooth and swift engine start-up. Next example of the belt based technology is that next generation car engines would replace timing chains to belt type in the synchronization of the camshaft and crankshaft. As a result, there is a 30% less frictional loss compared to a chain drive. This cuts fuels by as much as 0.2 liters per 100 kilometers. Also, this helps to lower the carbon dioxide emission by as much as 3 grams per kilometer, thus adding to the protection of the environment. Other advantage is that it generates less noise build-up than the chain types. This is because when belts are used, rubber instead of steel comes in contact with metal, which in turn produce less noise.

More and more car drivers have changed their priorities and now want all to save fuel. Start-stop systems have therefore become standard features in modern automobiles. When the vehicle comes to a standstill, the engine is automatically shut down and started up again when the driver depresses the clutch before moving off. It’s an approach that certainly saves fuel, but the technology does its drawbacks. As the starter motor draws off considerable current from the system, the on-board voltage level can fall from its normal level of 12 volts to as low as 6 volts. Which means the radio and ventilation will switch off, and the lights will dim.

To prevent such complications during starting, a DC/DC converter was the solution. It aims to boost up the voltage to a stable 12 volts. Its design is very compact and can be easily integrated into the vehicle. This is one of the innovations between battery and energy management.

At a start-stop system significantly increases the number of times the engine is started, it is essential to protect the starter battery against overload. Therefore, another innovation comes to place which is called the intelligent battery sensor which provides an additional check. The sensor monitors battery status and transmits the information to the cars body controller, which only enables the start-stop functions if the three key battery parameters; capacity, performance and age are in the required range.

DC/DC converter and IBS therefore make the ideal combination for saving fuel. The converter adds comfort and convenience, while the intelligent battery sensor protects the battery and ensures that the vehicle has no problem starting.