Advanced Automotive Propulsion Systems - Alternatives, Combinations and Trends 2001-01-2521

The worldwide demand for vehicles, respectively for their diversity, corresponding to specific utilizations, increases continuously. On the other hand, the energy resources, the ecological aspects and the traffic flow lead to severe requirements to every new vehicle and propulsion system. Between necessities, specific utilization aspects and requirements, numerous configurations of propulsion systems are conceivable. This paper presents a classification of conventional and advanced propulsion systems and of their combination concepts in base of following criteria: energy resources, ecological aspects, technical feasibility, expected costs. The paper gives an overview of different propulsion systems and of the required energy form - including storage or conversion on board. Going from this overview basic concepts such as advanced IC engines and their energy sources, electric motors, including the energy storage or conversion systems as well as advantageous hybrid configurations are discussed. The combination of different propulsion forms for specific utilization results as a pragmatic way between niche techniques and universal solutions.