General Motors received an Innovation Partnership Award along with BorgWarner for collaboration in a newly developed solenoid valve that is part of a stop/start system for a 2015 GM vehicle that will be announced later.
The accolade was handed out Monday evening at the Premier Automotive Suppliers’ Contribution to Excellence (PACE) Awards 20th anniversary.
“Fuel economy improvements with stop/start systems are an example of our focus that strives to put the customer at the center of everything we do,” said Steve Kiefer, vice president of GM Global Powertrain Engineering. “Being recognized with an Innovation Partnership Award is special for General Motors as it affirms what we are determined to do – collaborate and partner successfully with the suppliers that can help improve our products.”
The solenoid valve is a low-noise, high-flow, low-leak valve that achieves quick hydraulic pressure for smooth launches when the engine restarts. The technology helps deliver improved fuel economy and performance as part of a stop/start system.
The stop/start system automatically shuts down the engine when the car comes to a stop under certain driving conditions, such as a stoplight. The engine automatically restarts when the driver takes his or her foot off the brake.
The 2014 Malibu is the first in its segment with a standard engine featuring fuel-saving stop/start technology. Stop/start is featured along other technologies in the Malibu’s new 2.5L intake valve lift control, or iVLC, powertrain along with direct injection, variable valve lift control and a new six-speed automatic transmission. All contribute to EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings of 25 mpg in city driving and 36 mpg on the highway – 14-percent and 6-percent improvements, respectively, over earlier models.
The new technologies on the 2.5L model enable the Malibu to deliver a higher combined fuel economy rating than the base engines of several midsize sedan competitors, including the Toyota Camry, Ford Fusion, Kia Optima, Hyundai Sonata and Chrysler 200.
Additionally, BorgWarner received a PACE award for the specific work the supplier accomplished on the solenoid valve.
The PACE Innovation Partnership Awards recognize automakers that excel in collaborative innovation with a supplier. Automotive News, Ernst and Young and Transportation Research Center sponsor the Innovation Partnership Award.
