Geely launches second-generation NordThor drivetrain, claims engine thermal efficiency of 46.5%
8 November 2024
Earlier this month, Geely debuted the NordThor EM-i gasoline-electric PHEV drivetrain. This 2nd generation NordThor drivetrain is optimized for efficiency and debuts in the Geely Galaxy Starship 7. Combined fuel efficiency is reported as 2.62 L/100 km with a combined gasoline-electric range of 2,390 km under the Chinese Light-Duty Vehicle Test Cycle. The combined fuel efficiency is obtained in charge depleting mode and combines the fuel consumption and electricity consumption. Electricity consumption is converted to a gasoline equivalent value using a conversion factor.
In charge sustaining mode, the Galaxy Starship 7 fuel consumption is higher and combined range shorter with values ranging from 3.75 L/100 km to 4.88 L/100 km and 1,430 km reported in the media. The curb weight of the Galaxy Starship 7 is 1,724 kg or 1,790 kg depending on the particular version.
Powering the vehicle is a 1.5 L naturally aspirated BHE15-BFN engine (Aurora Bay Technology) rated at 82 kW (110 hp) and reaching a thermal efficiency of 46.5%. In addition to gasoline, the engine can also run on methanol. Other technologies contributing to the low fuel consumption include a high efficiency dedicated hybrid transmission and a new thermal management system.
Mated to the engine is the dedicated hybrid transmission (E-DHT) that brings Geely’s 11-in-1 motor technology to PHEVs. It is comprised of P1 and P3 electric motors, a SiC module, VCU (vehicle control unit), TCU (transmission control unit), PDU (power distribution unit), a control system, transmission, and an active traction control system. The whole system is proven to be effective in temperatures as low as -35°C and, with an overall efficiency of 92.5%. The 160 kW P3 electric motor has a peak efficiency of 98.02%. The drivetrain is designed to keep the vehicle operational even if one of the components fails.
The new thermal management system increases warmup speed by 40%, leading to a further 3% improvement in fuel efficiency.
Two lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery pack options are available, 19.09 kWh for 101 km electric range and 29.94 kWh for 150 km electric range.
According to the company, this new hybrid technology will also be applied to Renault, Volvo, and Lotus brands.
A next-generation version of the engine is being developed with a prototype demonstrating a certified thermal efficiency of 48.15%.
The NordThor EM-P version of the drivetrain, launched earlier this year, is optimized for performance. Earlier this year, BYD also launched its latest DM-I PHEV system that claims an engine efficiency of 46.1%.
Source: Car News China | Gasgoo Autonews