Low-CO2 engine research

An ultra-efficient car engine with massively reduced CO2 emissions is the aim of a major two-year research project announced this week.

By David Williams Published: 4:25PM GMT 02 Dec 2009

Funding boost for low-emissions family transport
Known as HyBoost, the Government-backed collaboration aims to develop a petrol engine that delivers the performance of a 2.0-litre motor while reducing emissions by up to 40 per cent, to below 100g/km. It will have to be capable of efficient mass-production for use in family cars.
"HyBoost aims to demonstrate the very significant benefits that can be achieved using an intelligent combination of innovative technologies to deliver low carbon transport solutions," said Neville Jackson, Ricardo group technology director.

"The targets of this research would enable a consumer-attractive 'average car' to be offered with CO2 emissions well below the mandated future target set for the European fleet average without compromising vehicle performance."
The project is being led by Ricardo in partnership with Controlled Power Technologies, the European Advanced Lead Acid Battery Consortium, Ford, Imperial College London and industrial group Valeo. The project is supported by investment from the Government-backed Technology Strategy Board.
The HyBoost engine will call on a range of technologies including exhaust gas energy recovery, stop/start, regenerative braking, torque assist, exhaust gas energy recovery and what is claimed to be a "novel energy storage technology".
Its backers believe that elements of the new engine – or even the entire unit – could make it into production within three years