Funny you mention that, Jerry. I just saw this in Automotive News
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Andreas Truckenbrodt, executive director of hybrid powertrain programs for DaimlerChrysler, is working with General Motors (who no longer owns any of Isuzu) and BMW to develop the Two-Mode hybrid transmission for rear-wheel-drive SUVs and luxury cars.
Q: Your engineers share an operation in Troy, Mich., with engineers from GM and BMW. Does it make you nervous working so closely with such fierce rivals?
We have a BMW-only area, a GM-only area and a DC-only area where we bring in all the integration for each application. I don't know how (GM's and BMW's cars) are going to work and look like, and the other way around.
Q: What has it been like collaborating with GM and BMW?
When you put a bunch of creative, experienced engineers together, it's amazing what you can achieve. We are building on a very good (transmission) already. But it can improve so much if you just add the experience, the lessons learned and the competency of those various engineers.
Q: How is the manufacturing going to be set up?
There will be some transmissions manufactured by GM. But we are talking about more than one for premium rear-wheel drive. There are some where GM is the manufacturer and some where maybe we are the manufacturer.
Q: Are you looking at diesel hybrids?
A hybrid diesel is certainly something that is an option. It's technically feasible. But the cost is the big issue, and that's what's stopping us at the moment. But from a technical perspective, you have to do some technical adaptation.
Q: Can you say which Mercedes vehicle will get the Two-Mode hybrid transmission?
Not today.
Q: GM says the Two-Mode transmission can deliver a 25 percent fuel economy gain. Do you agree?
A: Yes.
Q: Can the Two-Mode allow you to use a smaller engine for even greater fuel economy?
We would not develop something like this for just one engine. Modularity and flexibility is certainly the goal.
Q: Will the Two-Mode transmission be profitable?
Profit is a difficult animal. It depends highly on volume, and the volume isn't there yet. It's hard to make a profit if the volume is low. What matters more, frankly, is that the technology that you do have has the potential to be cost-effective.
