General Motors, along with BorgWarner, have been given the Innovation Partnership Award for collaboration in developing the solenoid valve. The new part will first be used as a part of a stop/start system for a future 2015 vehicle that will be named later this year.
“Fuel economy improvements with stop/start systems are an example of our focus that strives to put the customer at the center of everything we do,” Steve Kiefer, vice president of GM Global Powertrain Engineering. “Being recognized with an Innovation Partnership Award is special for General Motors as it affirms what we are determined to do — collaborate and partner successfully with the suppliers that can help improve our products.”
The valve is a low-noise, high-flow, low-leak value that achieves quick hydraulic pressure for smooth launches when the engine restarts. The technology helps deliver improved fuel economy and performance as part of a stop-start system.
The system automatically shuts down the engine when the car comes to a full stop under certain driving conditions, such as a stoplight. The engine automatically restarts when the driver takes his or her foot off the brake. The 2014 Chevrolet Malibu has been the first vehicle to utilize a start/stop system in GM’s lineup.
Comments
any idea on which 2015 vehicles will receive this? Mid-size trucks are really grasping for MPGs but I have my doubts in them getting it, maybe by 2017MY
The “start-stop” system may be the weakest hybrid, but considering the millions or cars that stop and start at traffic lights, “Stop” signs, pedestrian walkways, and in traffic jams every daily, I know that all non- hybrid gas vehicles in America should have this installed, burn no gas while stopped, and save millions of dollars in gas and less maintenance. And in the long term it will help save our atmosphere.