University News Last updated 01 December 2010
International experts have gathered at Birmingham City University to discuss what we will be driving on the roads in the future.
On Wednesday 24 November, the University’s Faculty of Technology, Engineering and the Environment hosted the Fourth Advanced Powertrain Control Symposium at Millennium Point. The event brought together engines, hybrid vehicle and alternative fuels experts to share developments in the area of the automotive industry known as powertrain control, which refers to the components that generate power and deliver it to the wheels while optimising fuel economy and emissions.
Major names from the automotive world were present including Jaguar Land Rover, Morgan Motor Company and Ricardo. Delegates from as far afield as Japan and India gave speeches and the keynote address was given by Dr Daryao Khatri, Vice President of SAE India.
The Symposium is held every two years, and this year’s key themes included the latest developments in alternative fuels, hybrid vehicles and safety critical systems (systems whose failure or malfunction may result in serious injury to people or damage to equipment or the environment).
The programme was closed by an address by Charles Morgan, grandson of the Founder of Morgan Motor Cars. Symposium convenor, Dr. Manjit Singh Srai, said: “The automotive industry is facing huge challenges to reduce engine emissions and increase fuel efficiency as global oil production begins to fall. The symposium brings together leading automotive manufacturers and companies developing new tools, technologies and systems to optimise not only conventional petrol and diesel powertrains but also explore emerging trends in alternative fuels and hybrid vehicles”.
Parmjit Chima, Head of the University’s School of Engineering, Design and Manufacturing Systems said: “The symposium provided a unique opportunity for the automotive industry to engage, disseminate and exchange information on powertrain control systems – a key driver in the design of new automotive vehicles of the future.”