Young Minds Are Thinking Green

GM Sponsors Eco Car Challenge

Top students from around the country gathered to show off their eco friendly ideas.  GM recently sponsored the Eco Car challenge in Ann Arbor, MI and gave student engineers a chance to show off their eco friendly auto concoctions.  GM donated midsize SUV plaforms.  

GM has said they could put some of these ideas into motion.  Shows they're truly listening.  

"In addition to the actual product development, we are also out teaching and educating people about the benefits of hybrid technology and improved efficiency," said Michelle Taylor, a science and technology outreach coordinator from Missouri University.

Journalists were even invited to test out the student's ideas.  A team from Virginia Tech was on hand to answer questions and discuss their entry.  

"Our vehicle is a range-extended split parallel hybrid," said team lead Lynn Gantt. "It uses E85 ethanol and a large electric battery pack. In our model, we've seen petroleum usage reduced by 90 percent and a 30 percent carbon emissions reduction as well."

This type of system allows the driver to select between the all-electric mode or to utilize the E85-powered four-cylinder for assistance. In all-electric mode, the vehicle is capable of traveling 70 miles.

Autoweek journalists that  when you're behind the wheel of the VT-REX in all-electric mode, the only noticeable difference from a regular SUV is the silence. The acceleration, feel and sensations of driving are not lost in this hybrid.

"Like most gasoline engines, when you let off the accelerator, it uses decompression of the engine to slow down. Electric vehicles don't have that," said Gantt. "Through development in our vehicle, we are able to simulate that effect so it feels like a normal car."

The final portion of the three-year competition ends in June with vehicle evaluation at the GM proving grounds in Milford, Mich. Visit www.ecocarchallenge.org for more information.