Automotive Engineer

News

• The Nissan Leaf receives the five star Euro NCAP safety rating
• Porsche develops an electric version of its Boxster sportscar
• Renault’s high-torque engines will use wet dual-clutches
• BMW highlights the problem of the rising cost of metals

Technology

• Dual-stage turbocharging boosts Audi’s 3-litre V6 diesel
• TRW’s roof-mounted airbag improves occupant safety
• Schaeffler’s thermal management unit keeps Audi cool
• Ford researchers develop seats which monitors drivers’ hearts

Features

Highly-charged debate - cover story
The Nissan Leaf has set the benchmark for electric vehicle crash safety, receiving a five-star Euro NCAP rating. We speak to the carmaker and the safety body about the test results, and what they mean for the industry.

Kia Picanto
The A-segment car emits only 95g/km of CO2 from a refined, three-cylinder gasoline engine 

Mercedes-Benz C-Class
Daimler’s executive sedan brings technologies from the luxury market to the D-segment

Electric traction
Audi’s engineers are developing more efficient all-wheel drive systems for hybrids and EVs 

Making Mini bigger
Mini is expanding its range and offering new powertrains and better connectivity

Small but powerful
BMW’s new four-cylinder turbo offers the power and torque of a straight six but lower emissions

Infiniti’s head of strategy
Francois Bancon discusses luxury electric vehicles and the use of alternative materials

Elemental
Developing new battery electrodes will bring energy densities closer to gasoline

Focus on gasoline

Gasoline engines must become much more efficient – fast. OEMs and TIer Ones discuss how downsizing, injection strategies and advanced ignition systems will help them meet emissions targets

Regulars

Comment
Safety must improve but there’s a balance to be struck

Milestones
Variable valve timing systems make combustion engines more efficient but they weren’t available until the 1980s

Know-how
We focus in on camera technology

Diary
The best selection of what’s on, why, where, and when

Recruitment
Accelerate your own development

The Job
Bentley’s acoustics and aerodynamics chief talks about the challenge of making vehicles worth €320,000 pitch-perfect 

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