We are developing hybrid systems for diesel engines cars to reduce the burden on the environment. Converting the energy of braking into electricity and storing it in a battery for use in acceleration can save fuel consumption.
Diesel engines drive conventional train cars directly through a transmission. In a hybrid system, the diesel engine spins an electrical generator that converts the energy of motion into electrical energy.
That energy is converted by a converter and inverter and is used to power the motor to drive the train. Connecting a battery between the converter and the inverter makes it possible to supply the extra energy needed for acceleration from the battery and to store the kinetic energy from braking that is converted to electrical energy by the motor in the battery. In that way, the energy that is lost as heat during conventional braking is used effectively to improve engine efficiency, thus reducing fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.
