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To: BMWIN who wrote (3143)9/30/1998 12:41:00 PM
From: Sleeperz  Respond to of 5827
 
Probably any of they big auto parts suppliers that currently do everything from design to manufacturing for the auto companies.
That would include but not limited to Magna International, DANA, TRW, Allied Signal, Eaton and Nipondenso.

TRW recently introduced an integrated all electric power steering module that will neatly fit in a vehicle negating the OLD hydraulic
power steering system with it maze of pumps, hoses and fittings.

Magna introduced HYDRO Forming used to manufacture Frames.

So the parts makers are the one coming up with new an innovative
systems and manufacturuing process. Not any of the Big three.

Thus if vehicles go all electric then the main thing the current automakers are known for the, "IC engine" will no longer be an item
on a buyers check list.
An electric motor requires control and power electronic components
and SW to operate motor control algorithms usually these days running
on DSPs or other specialized uPs. So any of the current big electric
motor manufacturers may find an increasing role.

CL

>>> He foresees that in two decades today's major automakers may not be the drivers of the vehicle industry, there could be a radical shift in power to parts and system suppliers, and that completely new players, such as electronics and software firms, may be the real competitors to automakers. In the face of increasing costs, urban congestion, pollution and global warming, he said people are demanding new products, and challenged the auto industry to think carefully what business it should be in: car manufacturing, or mobility and services? <<<



To: BMWIN who wrote (3143)10/1/1998 11:09:00 AM
From: Hawkeye  Read Replies (1) | Respond to of 5827
 
Interesting piece at Calstart from yesterday quoting a Detroit News article that says GM is targeting its green machines at Cadillac buyers first. Fuel cells were mentioned.

calstart.org



To: BMWIN who wrote (3143)10/2/1998 7:01:00 PM
From: BMWIN  Read Replies (1) | Respond to of 5827
 
from calstart.com

10/02/98 - Mercedes-Benz Launches its 'Hybrid Bike'

Cologne, Germany - Mercedes-Benz has launched an electric bicycle, calling it a "Hybrid Bike" and "a true
Mercedes-Benz." The Sachs-built bike uses a Sanyo hub motor in the rear that provides up to 300 watts of boost to
12.4 mph (20 km/h), then gradually reduced power until 15.5 mph (25 km/h). Above that, the rider must pedal on
his own if faster travel is desired. Unique features on the three-speed bike include hydraulic brakes, a grease- and
maintenance-free drive belt, hydraulic brakes and nickel-cadmium batteries. The bike's generator light also stores
power in capacitors so that when stopped, the system lights the rear taillight for four minutes. Mercedes claims a
range of up to 18.6 miles (30 km) on one charge; recharging of the removable battery pack is done using an
off-board charger. The bike retails for about $2,057 (3250DM) and will only be sold and serviced through
Mercedes automobile dealerships.