xlncee1
- Cars
How It Works: Tomorrow's Hybrid
The ReCharge, Volvo’s concept plug-in hybrid, could squeeze 160 miles from a gallon of gas by tossing out the power-wasting transmission. It packs a small electric motor inside each wheel, so that no power is lost in the drivetrain. Here’s a look at the next generation of fuel-efficiency
3.17.2008 at 10:10am - Comment by xlncee1Its great that Volvo is finally getting around to the innovative designs needed to bring fuel efficiency into the 21st century. I've been refining a similiar concept over the last 3 years, which should result in a 300 mpg efficiency. I like that their concept will eliminate the Transmission and reduce wasted energy. With a few additional improvements, they should also be able to reduce or eliminate the brakes and use the Electro-magnet as both a motor powering all four wheels and as a power generator which could be used during braking and simultaneously re-charge the battery. Battery size/weight could also be dramatically reduced. I hope they can bring to market sooner. Great job guys, keep up the innovative approach. At your service Sincerely, John Frei Toms River, NJ
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December 2009: Best of What's New
In our December issue, Popular Science names the 100 best innovations of the year: bombproof wallpaper, self-parking cars, the fastest helicopter, and 97 more. Plus inventor profiles and videos.
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