Patent ID: 7647994
Filing Date: 2010-01-19
Classification: B60K,B60L,B60W,Y02T

Abstract:
1. A fuel efficient hybrid power train for a wheeled vehicle having a rechargeable storage battery and transmission means for controllably supplying power to said wheels, said power train comprising: a) a first internal combustion engine capable of producing sufficient power to satisfy all the operational needs of the vehicle, b) a second internal combustion engine of lesser power capability than said first engine, c) a generator which is activated by said second engine to produce electrical energy that is routed in part to said storage battery, d) an electric motor, actuated by electric energy from said battery and generator to produce power that is mechanically conveyed to wheels that drive the vehicle, e) control means which activates said first engine when the vehicle requires maximal power and otherwise deactivates said first engine, thereby enabling said electric motor to provide the sole propulsive needs of the vehicle in a cruising mode of operation, and f) releasable coupling means which enable power from said first engine to be adjustably added to the power produced by said electric motor when the vehicle is in an accelerating mode of operation or is otherwise in need of additional power.