AVL and SuperTurbo ™ Technologies Partner on Hydrogen Engine Application

AVL and SuperTurbo ™ Technologies partner on Hydrogen Engine Application.

AVL and SuperTurbo Technologies announced that they will collaborate on a project to investigate the emission reduction possibilities of the hydrogen internal combustion engine (H2ICE). Focusing specifically on commercial vehicle applications, they will explore the benefits of applying an innovative mechanically driven turbocharger drive unit to a 13L engine with H2 combustion.

The innovative high-speed traction unit, or SuperTurbo, is an ‘on-demand’ air device that can be used to control the speed of the turbomachinery independently of the engine's exhaust flow and vary the relative ratio between engine speed and turbo speed.

This is accomplished by utilizing mechanical components to either add or subtract power from the turbocharger shaft. The SuperTurbo employs a speed reduction fixed ratio planetary drive coupled with a continuously variable transmission. The result is an increase in performance and efficiency, which translates to reduced emissions.

AVL will leverage its years of simulation experience to provide an engine map simulation including NOx emissions, torque, power, intake and exhaust system pressure and temperatures, peak cylinder pressure and combustion timing.

Stephan Tarnutzer, President at AVL North America.

This collaboration is an important step for AVL in continuing our commitment to innovation and advancements that demonstrate our technology leadership.

"H2ICE applications can provide significant advantages in commercial vehicles, and we believe this collaboration will show even further emission and efficiency benefits."

Regulations will require vehicle manufacturers to reduce NOx emissions while prioritizing performance. This will require advanced thermal management techniques to get exhaust aftertreatments to operating temperatures quickly and stay there even at light engine loads.

Thomas Waldron, Executive Vice President at SuperTurbo Technologies.

The application of driven-turbo technology for H2ICE will enable full-cycle lean burn through precise air control and will also improve engine response.

"The collective AVL/SuperTurbo goal is to demonstrate low NOx emissions, performance similar to diesel, and improved engine efficiency. This could offer manufacturers a cost-effective path to carbon-free powertrains."

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Press Release: AVL and SuperTurbo™ Technologies Partner on Hydrogen Engine Application, Plymouth, MI, October 19, 2021