Electronic Wedge brakes

With its EWB (Electronic Wedge Brake), Siemens is aiming for a revolution in braking system technology for passenger cars. Compared to today’s hydraulic brakes, the EWB is more efficient, responds faster, requires far less energy, reduces a vehicle’s weight and saves space.The ubiquitous antilock braking systems (ABS) and the less common electronic stability programs will [...]

Desmodromic valve mechanism

What are desmodromic valves? Desmodromic valves are those which are positively opened and closed by a cam and leverage system, rather than relying on the more conventional valve springs. The term desmodromic is derived from two Greek roots, desmos (controlled, linked) and dromos (course, track).The Desomodromic valve system was invented by Dr. Fabio Taglioni. Why [...]

KERS explained

KERS  Kinetic Energy Recovery System (KERS)  is a newly developed technology to boost the car’s performance. As its name implies, a KERS recovers the (normally wasted) kinetic energy generated by the car’s braking process. This energy is stored using a mechanical flywheel or an electrical battery and then made available to the driver, in set [...]

Hybrid vehicle technologies

 A hybrid vehicle is one which uses two or more sources or power – a rechargeable battery and fossil fuel in a bid to obtain two specific objectives – lower emissions and improved fuel economy. With the higher price tag and insurance they command, the offset is not all that much, some think. But then [...]