General Motors and partners BMW and DaimlerChrysler have unveiled a state-of-the-art full hybrid system that integrates electric motors with a fixed-gear transmission.

The two-mode system, which employs low- and high-speed electric continuously variable transmission (ECVT) modes, should be ready for production in 2007, the partners said.

The system incorporates four fixed gear ratios in addition to the two ECVT modes, and it can use electric motors during all modes for boosting power and regenerative braking. The partners say the new technology provides superior fuel economy, performance and towing capability.

The hybrid system is about the same size as a conventional automatic transmission, with about the same overall mechanical content. An electronic control module constantly optimizes the system, matching the most efficient operation point to the power level demanded by the driver.

Because the system imposes no significant limitation on the size or type of engine, the three partners will be able to mate it to a wide variety of engines with relatively few alterations to each one’s powertrain portfolio. That means the hybrid technology also can be used across a broader range of vehicles, including passenger cars and light trucks. Initially, it will be employed in rear- and four-wheel-drive applications, but the partners say they are working on future front-wheel-drive applications as well.

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