Hybrid Vehicle Power Plant Launched

Interest in hybrid drivetrains continues to grow. UQM Technologies, a Golden,
Colorado-based developer of alternative energy products, has launched an integrated
electric traction system (INTETS), which it describes as “an advanced propulsion system for
battery, hybrid, and fuel-cell electric vehicles.” The system is the electrical equivalent
of a conventional internal combustion engine, transmission and differential powertrain. UQM
claims its new system offers unprecedented levels of compactness, performance and
efficiency, providing both sole propulsion system for midsize vehicles and individual axle
drives for larger vehicles. The complete system, which includes a brushless permanent
magnet motor, inverter/controller and gearing, registered peak efficiency exceeding 91
percent. A larger, more powerful 125-kW version for light trucks and SUVs is also under
consideration. Development funding for the system was provided by the U.S. Department of
Energy.