Abstract: A vehicle propulsion system includes an internal combustion engine with a cylinder, an intake valve, an exhaust valve, and a cylinder head defining a combustion chamber; an intake manifold in communication with the combustion chamber through the intake valve; an exhaust manifold in communication with the combustion chamber through the exhaust valve; a turbocharger with a compressor in communication with the intake manifold, a turbine in communication with the exhaust manifold, and an electric motor for selectively driving the turbine; and a controller in communication with the electric motor and configured to selectively operate electric motor to drive the turbine to reduce a pressure in the combustion chamber during an engine start process.

Abstract: A vehicle propulsion system includes an internal combustion engine with a cylinder, an intake valve, an exhaust valve, and a cylinder head defining a combustion chamber; an intake manifold in communication with the combustion chamber through the intake valve; an exhaust manifold in communication with the combustion chamber through the exhaust valve; a turbocharger with a compressor in communication with the intake manifold, a turbine in communication with the exhaust manifold, and an electric motor for selectively driving the turbine; and a controller in communication with the electric motor and configured to selectively operate electric motor to drive the turbine to reduce a pressure in the combustion chamber during an engine start process.

Abstract: An actuator is provided for preventing rotation of a rotary component including a plurality of teeth. The actuator includes a pawl pivotable about a first pivot axis and engageable with the rotary component for preventing rotation of the rotary component in a first rotary direction. The pawl is biased toward an engaged position with the rotary component by a pawl spring. A solenoid includes an electrically activated solenoid and an armature movable from a first position for holding said pawl out of engagement with the rotary component to a second position for allowing the pawl to be engaged with the rotary component. The armature includes an armature stop that is engageable with an electrical contact of an electric circuit for sensing a position of the armature.