Quote:
Originally Posted by freakystyly
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The Volt Gen 1 used a planetary gearset that transmitted engine power directly to the drivewheels in only one narrow circumstance, which was basically mountain climbs. Gen 2 Volt used a redesigned planetary transmission that expanded the engine assist at highway speeds above 65 MPH (it might be 70), because GM found the drivetrain was more fuel efficient in that mode at high speeds. Being the engine has to assist in direct drive wheel power, the crank and internals need strength to support that function.
A true engine-eletric drive system (like used in modern locomotives) allows for optimizing the separate components to do just their job. That allows engineers to optimize the (light) weight of components in an automotive version. The problem with automobiles, which is different than trains, is the constant change in acceleration. That can be over come by storage batteries and large capacitors to deal with peak acceleration demands. Locomotives do not change speed as rapidly as automobiles do, so the power generator is large and heavy to meet the demands of full pulling power locomotive needs.
The drivetrain scaled and repurposed to automotive use can drastically reduce the size and weight of the engine since it's only work is to generate electricity. The problem is since ICE can be banned by a stroke of a pen, it is sadly hard to justify development of the technology. My opinion of course.
A rotary engine could be ideal for this type of application.