Mercedes-Benz’s vary extender system reportedly used a 1.0-litre turbo-petrol engine as a generator.
Our sister publication Autocar UK understands that Mercedes-Benz has pulled the plug on exams exploring range-extender drivetrains as a possible means to enhance the utility and enchantment of its electrical vehicles.
Mercedes-Benz vary extender powertrain
The know-how that had been trialled makes use of a specifically tailored combustion engine as a generator to cost the battery when it runs low. Nevertheless, regardless of starting a sophisticated engineering programme, the agency has determined to concentrate on easier and more cost effective battery-electric drivetrains, a supply acquainted with Mercedes’ automotive improvement actions confirmed.
“Now we have created [range-extender] prototypes primarily based on current fashions, each for packaging and highway testing. In the long run, although, we concluded that the range-extender drivetrain is a transitional know-how with a comparatively short-term profit by way of gross sales and relatively excessive manufacturing prices,” stated a high-level insider from the corporate.
Among the many range-extender Mercedes prototypes is an EQS-based mule. It’s claimed to characteristic a front-mounted turbocharged 1.0-litre two-cylinder engine – basically half of the turbocharged ‘M254’ 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine used via its line-up – to behave purely as a generator with out direct drive to the wheels.
Energy for the prototype is delivered by a rear-mounted electrical motor creating 272hp and working together with a floor-mounted lithium-ion battery. The electrical vitality for the battery, described as having a capability of roughly half of that utilized by the manufacturing EQS, is offered by conventional AC and DC plug-in charging. The 2-cylinder engine is used to create backup electrical energy in conditions the place plug-in charging just isn’t obtainable or potential.
Within the Mercedes prototype, the petrol engine is mixed with a gas tank of unspecified capability, giving it a theoretical vary, Autocar UK has been informed, past the 784km of the rear-driven EQS 450+.
Vary extender know-how
Consideration has turned to range-extender electrical autos following their growing recognition in China. Conscious of the dearth of EV charging infrastructure in second and third-tier cities, many carmakers there have begun to supply range-extender choices alongside pure-electric drivetrains in chosen fashions.
Maruti Suzuki has additionally revealed plans for implementing this know-how in India, introducing it on fashions just like the Fronx, Swift and Baleno. Faucet right here to learn extra on it.
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