Editors' perspectives: synergistic technologies for dedicated hybrid powertrains

Regulatory and market pressure to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emission has directed the path of powertrain development towards expanded use of electrification.Powertrain electrification can substantially reduce vehicle GHG emissions and improve fuel economy.The contributory technologies could be related to reducing the demands on the engine for enhanced durability and efficiency and introducing synergistic technologies such as kinetic energy recovery for more efficient energy management.This work reviews the advancement of energy-efficient hybrid powertrains with application of dual motive powers, engine and battery/motors.The focus is on the industrialization perspective of the dedicated hybrid transmission (DHT) development.Based on the DHT framework, dedicated hybrid engines (DHE) are exemplified through those successful hybrid vehicles in the market.Technology challenges for DHT are discussed.The key enablers of controls and model-based design are reviewed to disclose the progress of hybrid powertrain development by using both endogenous fuel and exogenous electricity if applicable.Overall, DHT case studies for both passenger cars and commercial vehicles are presented.