Volkswagen and Skoda Receive Patent for Hybrid Motor Vehicle Technology

Strategic Insights -

Volkswagen and Skoda, two German and Czech automobile manufacturers, have been granted a patent for a groundbreaking hybrid motor vehicle technology. Developed by four co-inventors, the system controls the operation of a motor vehicle equipped with a hybrid drive unit, utilizing a combustion engine and at least one electric machine. This innovative technology aims to optimize fuel efficiency and reduce emissions.

Key Takeaways:

  • The patented system employs a hybrid drive unit consisting of a combustion engine and an electric machine that can be operated as a motor or a generator.
  • The electric machine charges an energy store and/or supplies power to the vehicle's electrical system when in generator mode.
  • In generator mode, the electric machine operates in alternating intervals to prevent low efficiency operating points and achieve a fuel advantage over continuous operation.
  • The system was developed by four co-inventors: Michael Zillmer, Matthias Holz, Ekkehard Pott, and David Prochazka.
  • The patent application was filed on October 19, 2005, as reference number 11/719,350.
  • The patented technology aims to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions by utilizing the hybrid drive unit.
  • The system's alternating intervals in generator mode are designed to prevent low efficiency operating points and achieve a fuel advantage.
  • The co-inventors' work on this project demonstrates the companies' commitment to innovation and sustainability in the automotive industry.

Statistics:

  • The patent number assigned to this technology is 8,020,651.
  • The patent was granted on September 27, based on an application filed on October 19, 2005.
  • The hybrid drive unit combines a combustion engine with at least one electric machine to optimize fuel efficiency and reduce emissions.

Sources:

  • U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) patent #8,020,651 ()
  • Patent application reference number 11/719,350