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The objectives of this study were to design, develop, demonstrate and deploy a highly efficient drive-by-wire direct-wheel-drive transmissionless (differential-less and axle-less) propulsion diesel-electric drive systems for light, medium, and heavy hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs). The problems solved are extremely challenging because a number of long-standing problems in nonlinear analysis and control, optimization and design, manufacturing and technology developments, as well as technology transfer must be solved in order to design high-performance diesel-electric powertrains to be deployed in new generation of cars, pickups, trucks, busses and other vehicles. The major emphasis were placed to improve fuel economy and reduce emission, attain superior performance (vehicle and maneuverability, driveability and controllability), increase reliability and ruggedness, decrease cost and maintenance, etc.

The history of automotive electrical systems began in 1912 with an integrated starter/generator system (i.e. the Kettering DELCO system.). These systems were soon replaced by a separate starter and generator and later replaced by alternators, which now produce about 2kW. The 21st century will debut with intense interest in integrated starter/alternator/damper (ISAD) systems in the 5–20 kW range. This large increase in available electric power will catalyze many new luxury, performance and convenience features––and provides modest amounts of supplemental traction. The mechatronic technology of these systems will be nearly identical to more powerful parallel hybrid systems. This paper presents an advanced ISAD system for internal combustion (IC) engines and hybrid electric vehicle applications to reduce fuel consumption, reduce emissions, and enhance energy efficiency.