Electronics diverge in engineering Ford's hybrid C-Max and plug-in Energi Turning a hybrid into a plug-in hybrid takes a lot more development than simply adding cells to the battery pack, reflashing the controller, and installing a charging system. Here is insight into how Ford created its hybrid 2013 C-Max and its PEHV cousin, the C-Max Energi. Read full story

Caterpillar hybridizes the excavator using hydraulics technology The hybrid technology used in the 336E H was developed by Caterpillar in-house and is used to move the machine's upper structure. Read full story

A new approach to Li-ion battery modeling The new approach of researchers at Battery Design LLC and CD-adapco avoids the limitations of the standard approach by resolving the structure of the electrode and explicitly modeling the transport of lithium in the electrolyte and solid phases. Read full story

Silicon carbide shows potential for improved DC-DC technology and single multirole converters A Prodrive-led consortium is focusing on developing the technology for electrified vehicles, bringing meaningful weight and cost savings. Read full story

Clemson students show their concept for Next-BIG-Thing in automotive design The prototype, sans body panels, was produced in less than two years. The six-passenger design, reflecting Gen Y social values, was exhibited at the 2012 SEMA Show. It uses a 1.5-L turbocharged four-cylinder for front drive and adds hybrid electric drive in the rear for power, economy, and all-wheel-drive capability. Read full story

“Lincoln Motor Company” opened for business New York City’s Lincoln Center served as the backdrop for Ford's “reboot” of its luxury brand as the Lincoln Motor Company. The revival begins with the MKZ midsize sedan, but further differentiation could come from more exclusive high-performance versions of existing powerplants, plus perhaps European engines. And Ford’s rear-drive architecture, used by the Mustang, and it is being evaluated for luxury performance car use. Read full story

2014 Spark EV pioneers dc quick charging with new SAE Combo Connector GM's first battery-electric vehicle debuts at the 2012 L.A. Auto Show with a $25,000 base price, optional dc quick charging capability, and sub-8-s 0-60 mph acceleration. Read full story

Fiat and Chrysler unveil 2014 battery-electric 500e The battery-electric Fiat 500e features a 24-kW·h NiMgCo lithium-ion battery sourced from SB LiMotive and an 83-kW traction motor. The car is not aimed at traditional EV customers, according to Fiat's North American marketing boss. Read full story

Fuel-cell vehicles from Hyundai coming soon 1000 Tucson ix35 hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles are to take to the road by 2015, says the Korean carmaker. Read full story