Bosch and PSA Peugeot Citron, along with other partners, are cooperating on the OpEneR (Optimal Energy Consumption and Recovery) research programme, designed to improve the range of future hybrid and electric vehicles and optimise driver safety and comfort.
Two new technologies developed for the OpEneR project will be available for all types of motors (gasoline, diesel, hybrid and electric) Navigation data for an extended vision of the road and 15% energy savings
OpEneR now includes navigation data for predictive driving adaptation. The driver's vision is considerably extended with a preview of the road, based on topographical data such as slopes, bend radii and infrastructure data, with indication of road signs and speed limits.
This innovation means gains in efficiency, with energy savings of up to 15%. Thanks to the road preview feature, the engine management system performs a dynamic calculation of the energy required from the electric motors. On-board video camera and radars to optimise vehicle safety and comfort.
Sensors to help with driving comfort and safety, such as video camera and radars, are used to detect objects, other cars and pedestrians, as well as to recognise road signs, and also help bring down consumption. For instance, on the basis of the journey to be covered, a computer determines the vehicle's future speed curve, by integrating data going beyond the next bend. The Adaptive Cruise Control function automatically regulates the vehicle's speed and brakes before entering the bend, built-up areas and speed limited areas, as well as in the presence of obstacles and slower vehicles. This function means greater comfort and safety for the driver, who can concentrate on the wheel and the surrounding traffic.
In addition to its two new innovations, OpEneR enables the driver to reduce energy consumption, either by coasting, or by means of braking energy recovery for hybrid and electric vehicles. To date, more than 15,000 km of intensive testing have been carried out in real driving conditions and on varied road profiles, with consumption down by between 10% and 15%. The two partners have thus developed three technological innovations:
An electric drive train based on 2 electric motors, offering 4-wheel drive with zero CO2 emissions
The new generation Stop & Start for coasting;
ESP hev braking for energy recovery at braking and battery recharging, accompanied by the iBooster which can amplify the vacuum braking force.
OpEneR is part of the European Commission's "Green cars initiative" call for project proposals, with partners from the industrial and university worlds. Five partners are today working together on this research project: Bosch, AVL List and PSA Peugeot Citron, representing industry, and the Karlsruhe research centre in Germany and the Galician Automotive Technology Centre, representing the world of university research.
