The PSA Group and Bosch unveil the concept of a hybrid that uses compressed air

The PSA Group and Bosch have presented the development of a technology for hybrid vehicles, using a hybrid system accompanied by a hydraulic motor operating on compressed air rather than an electric motor. This technology will be integrated into the range of Peugeot and Citroën, probably in 2016, as well as GM’s compact models.

The hydraulic motor system will obtain the necessary air directly from the engine and from the brake circuit, so it is partly a regenerative technology. Developed together with Bosch, the new system is said to allow a significant reduction in CO2 emissions.

The experimental model would consist of two hydraulic units and a three-cylinder engine. It could be driven in three ways: the conventional way, with the petrol engine only, hydraulically (air only), or with a combination of both systems. For example, in the city, the car could run 80% of the time on air alone, shutting off the combustion engine.

According to the PSA Group, this technology could be combined with any existing engine, it is more durable than a conventional hybrid system, easier to repair, and does not require special refuelling infrastructure.

If all goes well, the French announce that there will be A-segment and B-segment models equipped with this system, at a price of around €20,000 (cheaper than any electric car and some hybrids), with the advantage that the final weight will be reduced compared with a current hybrid, which has to add the weight of the batteries.

Source: Automotive News