Lotus goes green . Lotus announced that they started working with Siemens VDO in a research and development program to reduce the CO2 emissions of future gasoline vehicles .
Lotus Press Release:
Low CO2 – efficient solutions for the future
Lotus Engineering, the engineering consultancy division of Group Lotus Plc, and Siemens VDO are collaborating on a research and development programme to reduce the CO2 emissions of future gasoline vehicles. In advance of the full unveiling of the Low CO2 engine in a demonstrator vehicle towards the end of the year, the final
cylinder head design with a number of integrated technologies, will feature on the Siemens VDO stand at the IAA International Motor Show in Frankfurt in September.
The Low CO2 exhibit will showcase key features from the newly-designed 1.5-litre, pressure charged, three-cylinder downsized hybrid engine. The display will include Lotus’ unique integrated exhaust manifold design and its cam profile switching system, and will also feature Siemens VDO’s new high pressure fuel pump and centrally-mounted gasoline injectors.
The primary objectives of the Low CO2 project are to deliver greatly reduced emissions while maintaining an engaging driving experience from an affordable set of technologies. The solution employs a cleverly integrated set of powertrain systems within a low mass, downsized overall package. Ultimately, the technology and know-how will be used by both partners to support vehicle manufacturers’ efforts to reduce fleet average CO2 emissions in next generation products.
Lotus Engineering is contributing its powertrain design, downsizing and systems integration expertise along with a number of advanced
technologies. Siemens VDO is supplying its extensive experience in powertrain management and control systems and a number of new technologies.
Mike Kimberley, CEO of Group Lotus plc, is extremely pleased at the progress of this highly professional research co-operation: “It is very appropriate that some of the key features of this Low CO2 project will be on display at one of the world’s foremost automotive exhibitions. I am delighted that we are working with Siemens VDO on this very special project. Both Lotus Engineering
and Siemens VDO are recognised as world experts in cutting-edge powertrain technologies and I look forward in the coming months to sharing with you the results of this incredible combination of complementary skills and technological leadership. This project is a prime example of how Lotus Engineering’s research activities, often in conjunction with globally recognised partners, are contributing to bringing to fruition a number of efficient powertrain and automotive advanced technology solutions for the future.”
Siemens VDO Group Vice President Dr. Klaus Egger stated that “The cooperation with our partner, Lotus Engineering, shows once again, that there is still a lot of potential for further
innovation and development within the internal combustion engine. The combination of direct injection and turbo charging means noticeably better fuel economy and lower CO2 emissions for the Gasoline engine, without compromising driving fun. With our advanced expertise in low CO2 know-how we see clear benefits for our customers and will further strengthen and improve our role as systems integration experts."
