TECH UPDATE: 08-10-06     Hybrid vehicle is a fancy phrase for a family of transmission technologies that actively manage the energy coming from an engine so the fuel being used is consumed in efficient methods not possible with conventional transmissions. These hybrid technologies and their names keep changing creating much of the confusion heard in the press. Below are the Hybra-Drive Systems (HDS) definitions: Series Hybrid: This technology is being developed in electric, hydraulic, and pneumatic versions. In these systems, the engine is used to convert the energy in the fuel to a more adaptable form of energy. In Hybra-Drive’s case, the energy is pressurized hydraulic oil. In some cases these hybrids allow the engine to be turned off while the vehicle is still moving. Braking energy can be recovered and stored for later use. This technology can lead to the development of new and more fuel efficient engines, which, until now, was not possible with other types of transmissions. Future versions of this technology could weigh less and cost less than current transmission technology. Parallel Hybrid: This technology is being developed in electric, hydraulic, and pneumatic versions often to retrofit existing power trains by attaching them to the propeller shaft. These systems collect energy when braking; thus increasing brake life. The stored energy is then used to assist the engine with the acceleration of the vehicle. The engine runs most of the time with these systems. These systems always add weight and cost to the vehicle. Series/Parallel: This technology is being developed in electric, hydraulic, and pneumatic versions. The technology is normally integrated into the transmission housing using a set of clutches to allow the vehicle to continually switch from pure conventional drive to pure alternative propulsion. Relatively complex computer controls are required to activate these systems. The idea is that in some driving conditions, like driving on a long flat highway, there is no technology more efficient than what we have today while obtaining the stop and go efficiency of a series hybrid. These systems may someday be weight neutral but will be very expensive for quite some time. The CVT: This technology goes by two names--Continually Variable Transmission or Constant Velocity Transmission, both names are correct. The goal here is to allow the engine to run at a relatively stable output so it operates efficiently at a constant velocity. At the same time, the driver of the vehicle wants to drive and enjoy doing so by requiring the speed of the wheels to continually be variable. This is done today using belts and some very special cone shaped pulleys. The HDS series hybrids efficiently simulate this technology to optimize weight and performance. Please visit our web site often for further updates on the HDS view of hybrid technologies   Hybra-Drive Systems, LLC James A. O'Brien II Founder/Chief Technology Officer/Interim CEO       ©2006 Hybra-Drive Systems, LLC All Rights Reserved info@hybra-drive.com bepiotter@gmail.com