Vitesco Technologies, the powertrain business area of Continental, presented a cost-effective and compact hybrid transmission solution with integrated electric machines, designed for use in applications such as plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs). In a further step-up to their systematic electrification strategy, it is now using its powertrain electrification expertise to make affordable hybrid vehicles a reality.

Typically, a hybrid has two power sources – an internal combustion engine and an electric motor, complete with power electronics and battery. This additional technical infrastructure can raise the cost of an all-electric-capable high-voltage hybrid. Now Vitesco has a solution which reassigns a number of functions previously performed by the transmission.   

Stephan Rebhan, Head of Technology & Innovation at Vitesco Technologies explained that “we have identified further potential here which our DHT technology for cost-effective PHEVs is designed to leverage. With a view to cutting CO2 emissions, PHEVs are a form of electric mobility which deserves to become much more successful in the future.”

How Vitesco's DHT technology works
The reassignment of functions helps reduces the number of mechanical components in the transmission. This saves space, weight and costs. Combined with a low-cost port-injection gasoline engine and all electric drive, the DHT technology clears the way for affordable, economical and comfortable vehicles capable of performing a wide range of daily trips in all-electric mode, with zero local emissions.

Stephan Rebhan further explains, “to ensure compliance with future EU CO2 emissions limits, it will be particularly important to get a grip on costs, which currently act as a barrier to the wider market success of hybrid electric powertrains,”

The DHT for cost-effective PHEVs is designed for speeds of up to 120 km/h in all-electric mode, and up to 160 km/h in hybrid mode.