In a joint statement issued on Januaryy 19, 2011 between U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lisa P. Jackson and Chrysler CEO Sergio Marchionne, announcement came of a cooperative agreement to develop and adapt hydraulic hybrid technology for the light duty auto market. Jackson commented that “hydraulic hybrid vehicles represent the cutting edge of fuel-efficiency technology and are one of many approaches we’re taking to save money for drivers, clean up the air we breathe and cut the greenhouse gases that jeopardize our health and prosperity.” She went on to say that “the EPA and Chrysler are working together to explore the possibilities for making this technology affordable and accessible to drivers everywhere” and that the “partnership is further proof that we can preserve our climate, protect our health and strengthen our economy all at the same time.” The new partnership hopes to bring the same cost-effective approach as currently seen in the EPA’s lab in Ann Arbor, Michigan with regard to its hydraulic hybrid technology which captures and reuses the energy lost in braking through a hydraulic pressure vessel. The system can also turn off the engine when it is not needed and only fully use the engine when it can operate at peak efficiently. We think this is great breaking news since it not only tackles the cost of energy but environmental concerns, as well.
