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Description
While the implementation of both mild hybrid and start-stop technology is widespread as a factory option in newer vehicles, the adaptation of hybrid technology to older or unequipped vehicles has not been fully realized. As such, a straight forward hybrid conversion system that is easily adapted to different vehicles regardless of drivetrain configuration, has been developed and applied to a test vehicle for less than $2,000. System performance was recorded both before and after hybridization using real world drive cycle tracking charts. The vehicle established a fuel economy baseline of 22.93 mpg, and achieved 26.58 mpg after the conversion. This corresponds to a 15.92% increase in fuel economy. Accounting for initial system costs and annual fuel saving, this corresponds to a 6-year payback period. Based on these results, it can be concluded that an inexpensive aftermarket hybrid system is both feasible and effective at improving fuel economy.
ContributorsBeeney, Tyler (Author) / Rogers, Bradley (Thesis advisor) / Madakannan, Arunachalanadar (Committee member) / Henderson, Mark (Committee member) / Arizona State University (Publisher)
Created2012