Electrified drives are being continuously developed. They are becoming more efficient, more powerful and better. Are DHD and ULRH an evolution or a revolution?
Dedicated Hybride Drives
A Dedicated Hybrid Drive (DHD), on German dedicated hybrid transmission, is a transmission system specially developed for hybrid vehicles. Unlike traditional hybrid systems, where electrical components are retrofitted into existing powertrains, DHDs are designed from the ground up for hybrid operation. This allows for optimized integration of the electric motor directly into the main transmission, resulting in improved efficiency and simplified mechanics.
Structure and function:
DHD systems are characterized by the following features:
Electric motor integration: The electric motor is integrated directly into the transmission, eliminating the need for separate components.
Reduced number of gears: Electric assistance can reduce the number of mechanical gears, which simplifies the system and saves weight.
Different operating modes: DHDs allow flexible switching between electric, serial and parallel driving mode, adapted to the respective driving situation.
Differences to other hybrid systems:
Compared to conventional hybrid systems, DHDs offer the following advantages:
Optimized efficiency: The specific design for hybrid operation leads to higher efficiency.
Compact design: The integration of the electric motor into the transmission saves space, which is particularly advantageous in smaller vehicles.
Cost efficiency: The reduced complexity can lead to lower production costs.
Manufacturers and available vehicles:
A leading provider of DHD systems is Magna International. Magna offers several DHD variants, including:
DHD Duo: A dual-electric motor system for hybrid electric vehicles (HEV) that offers high performance and comfort.
DHD Eco: Designed for dominant electric operation with a 120 kW electric motor, ideal for plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs).
DHD Plus: Suitable for high torque and high voltage applications, with five gears and full powershift capability in all modes.
Current information on specific vehicle models equipped with these systems is not available. However, it is expected that automakers cooperating with Magna will launch vehicles with DHD technology in the near future.
Market Demand and Distribution:
The demand for efficient and cost-effective hybrid systems is growing worldwide, especially in regions with strict emission regulations and high environmental awareness. DHDs offer an attractive solution for manufacturers who want to offer hybrid vehicles with optimized efficiency and performance.
Ultra Longe Range Hybrids
BYD, a leading Chinese manufacturer of electric vehicles, has unveiled a new hybrid powertrain that enables impressive ranges of over 2,000 kilometers without recharging or refueling.
Vehicles and ranges
The new hybrid drives will be used in the BYD Qin L and Seal 06 models. These vehicles have a combined range of up to 2,000 kilometers (approximately 1,250 miles).
Structure of the powertrain
The innovative powertrain is based on BYD Super DM technology, which combines a 1.5-liter combustion engine with a powerful electric motor. The internal combustion engine features a thermal efficiency of 43.04%, resulting in remarkable fuel efficiency. The electric motor achieves an efficiency of 97% and enables a purely electric range of up to 70 kilometers. Combined, these components provide a total range of over 1,000 kilometers in a variety of conditions.
Special features and differences to other hybrid drives
Compared to conventional hybrid vehicles, BYD Super DM technology is characterized by the following features:
High thermal efficiency: The 1.5-liter engine achieves a thermal efficiency of 43.04%, which is above the industry average and results in better fuel efficiency.
Efficient electric motor: With an efficiency of 97%, the electric motor makes a significant contribution to reducing fuel consumption.
Extended range: The combination of an efficient combustion engine and electric motor enables ranges that are significantly higher than those of many current plug-in hybrids.
Other vehicles with ultra-long-range hybrid drives
In addition to BYD, other manufacturers are also working on hybrid vehicles with extended ranges. Toyota, for example, has unveiled prototypes of internal combustion engines that can run on different fuels to increase range.
In addition, manufacturers such as Volkswagen and Ford are increasingly relying on plug-in hybrid technologies to enable longer driving distances.
Here is an overview on different drive types and their typical range:
Result
The launch of BYD's new hybrid powertrain marks a significant step forward in the automotive industry. By combining a highly efficient combustion engine with a powerful electric motor, ranges are achieved that were previously unmatched in the hybrid segment. This technology offers a promising solution for drivers who want to travel long distances without frequent reloading or refueling, and sets new standards for efficiency and performance in the hybrid vehicle market.
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