ARAI Develops Mild Hybrid Tech For Two-Wheelers

The automotive body had showcased Mahindra Mojo with hybrid technology at Auto Expo 2020

• It can be retrofitted to any two-wheeler and three-wheeler, according to ARAI. 
• Claimed to improve low-end torque and fuel efficiency.
• Can integrate other features like start-stop, e-Ride, launch control, and hill-start assist.

The Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) has developed a new hybrid powertrain technology for two-wheelers that enables them to run on both fuel and battery power. Called DVI, this tech can be adapted to three-wheelers as well and is especially suited for single-cylinder engines. The research body had showcased a Mahindra Mojo-based hybrid two-wheeler prototype at Auto Expo 2020. 

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The technology includes a starter-generator that replaces the starter motor and is connected to the crankshaft. This generator boosts performance by administering small doses of torque directly to the crankshaft. This complements the petrol-powered motor’s existing performance. According to the research body, the advantages of this setup are better low-end torque, better fuel efficiency, and lower emissions. An example of this is the SHVS hybrid setup seen in Maruti Suzuki cars. 

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According to ARAI, this setup can incorporate additional features like start-stop, e-Ride, e-Crawl, boost, hill-start assist and even launch control. The electric motor replaces the starter motor and can be packaged within the existing dimensions of the motor. 

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ARAI says it can supply the technology to OEMs and can also retrofit it to existing two-wheelers. While it has a working prototype ready, work is still on to further optimise the package. We can expect to see this technology on our roads this year itself.