Chrysler to work on hydraulic hybrid Technology for minivans a venture with EPA

[Fledermaus]

Playing catch-up in the alternative powertrain race, Chrysler said Wednesday that it will work with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency on a hydraulic hybrid technology for minivans.

The news comes a day after disclosing that the Chrysler 300 and the next-generation minivan will have optional hybrid-electric powertrains.
EPA administrator Lisa Jackson and Chrysler CEO Sergio Marchionne announced the hydraulic hybrid partnership at the agency's Ann Arbor emissions lab. The goal is to put the system in a test fleet of 15 to 20 Chrysler Town & Country minivans sometime next year. If Chrysler decides the technology works and the cost is reasonable, it could be put into broader production.

Jackson also said the hydraulic hybrid, which is already deployed in some delivery vans and garbage trucks, can boost fuel efficiency by 30% to 35% and reduce greenhouse-gas emissions by 25%. Unlike hybrid electric technology, a hydraulic hybrid incorporates an engine pump, a small hydraulic motor and, in this project, Chrysler's 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. There is no battery pack.

Read more: Chrysler to work on hydraulic hybrid | freep.com | Detroit Free Press http://www.freep.com/article/20110120/BUSINESS01/101200420/Chrysler-to-work-on-hydraulic-hybrid#ixzz1Be5HPhHF

[madokie]

1. I like the hydraulic hybrid idea

Nothing to not like about it from what I can tell. Using hydraulic technology they can all but do away with the friction brakes that all vehicles have today recapturing the lost energy when one applies the brakes to stop. With the new none metal holding tanks there is no danger from accidents either as if ruptured the tanks simply spill the oil contained. they don't blow up and kill people like a steal tank can when ruptured.
From my memory of Chryslers it would be wise for them to steer clear of the electric hybrid cause they used to never be able to get the electronics right. I had a short stint working in a auto parts store way back when and while there we sold several electrical items to customers for their Chryslers, Dodges and Plymouths to one for a gm product and very seldom for a ford product.

[madrchsod]

2. looks like the italians will be a better fit than the germans for chrysler

[Kolesar]

3. Sounds like a Cub Cadet riding lawnmower...eom