Fiat Readying Petrol & Diesel-Electric Hybrid Cars and Vans

The Fiat Group that includes the Alfa Romeo, Fiat and Lancia brands is working on a new petrol and diesel-electric hybrid system that is set to enter production by 2011. Alfredo Altavilla, CEO of Fiat Powertrain Technologies, told ANE, "We are still in the research phase and, if everything proceeds as expected, we could begin production within three years."

Just like Toyota’s hybrid powertrains, Fiat’s system will be able to power the vehicle for a short distance using only the electric energy stored in the batteries. According to ANE, Fiat’s current plans include a hybrid system based on a new 2-cylinder, 0.9-liter gasoline engine that mates an electric motor/generator to a dual-clutch transmission. This powertrain will be used on Fiat and Lancia minicars including the new 500. -Continued

Another hybrid powertrain that Fiat is working in is a four-cylinder, 2.3-liter diesel engine combined with an electric motor/generator and an automated manual transmission. This unit will be used on the Fiat Group’s light commercial vehicles.

Via: ANE (sub. Req.)