Intelligent powertrain for the next generation of e-POWER

The next generation of e-POWER will utilize an intelligent powertrain, building upon the first-generation e-POWER technology by optimizing battery charging capabilities in terms of real-world fuel efficiency and quietness. This is accomplished by utilizing traffic and road surface information. Moving towards the goal of improved fuel efficiency and quietness on par with EVs, the future of e-POWER technology will incorporate machine learning and deep analysis to optimize performance according to the driver’s behavior.

The e-POWER's intelligent powertrain will evolve incrementally. Initially, the on-board engine operation is controlled by real-time sensor information only.
With the addition of road surface information, the system can identify when the road surface can best mask the on-board engine’s running noise. The system can activate the engine to charge the battery pack on rough surfaces and deactivate on smooth surfaces for a quieter driving experience.

For further development, energy management will be optimized through usage of prediction models based on navigation route information and the latest road traffic information, including road surface information.
For example, based on the location information of the driver’s home, traffic jam area, rough road and downhill sections on a navigated route, the e-POWER’s intelligent powertrain management can schedule when the engine needs to activate in advance. This combination of information and advanced planning can enable an EV-like drive around home and during a traffic jam, and charge the battery on rough roads and downhill sections to improve real world fuel efficiency and quietness.

The future of e-POWER's intelligent powertrain technology will see gains on a daily basis, using additional outside information for machine learning and deep analysis to optimize performance according to the driver’s on-road behavior.