Abstract: A method for controlling starting of an internal combustion engine in a hybrid electric vehicle powertrain having multiple power flow paths to vehicle traction wheels from the engine and from an electric motor. A smoothness factor is calculated to determine how smooth an engine start should be. Engine operating variables regulate engine smoothness during engine start events as determined by the calculated smoothness factor appropriate for selected vehicle operating conditions.

Abstract: A method for controlling starting of an internal combustion engine in a hybrid electric vehicle powertrain having multiple power flow paths to vehicle traction wheels from the engine and from an electric motor. A smoothness factor is calculated to determine how smooth an engine start should be. Engine operating variables regulate engine smoothness during engine start events as determined by the calculated smoothness factor appropriate for selected vehicle operating conditions.

Abstract: A method for controlling starting of an internal combustion engine in a hybrid electric vehicle powertrain having multiple power flow paths to vehicle traction wheels from the engine and from an electric motor. A smoothness factor is calculated to determine how smooth an engine start should be. Engine operating variables regulate engine smoothness during engine start events as determined by the calculated smoothness factor appropriate for selected vehicle operating conditions.

Abstract: A system and method for efficient management of energy within a vehicle wherein the vehicle includes a battery and a motor. The method comprises generating electrical energy through the use of the motor and determining the battery temperature and the battery's state of charge. The method further includes applying electrical energy from the motor to the battery to simultaneously charge and heat the battery when the battery's state of charge is less than a predetermined battery charge limit and the battery temperature is greater than a lower charge efficiency temperature.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for managing torque distribution in a hybrid electric vehicle powertrain. An engine power estimation is determined for use in obtaining an optimum wheel torque command to attenuate sustained powertrain dynamic oscillations during operation of the vehicle with varying wheel torque and speed.

Abstract: A controller and a control method for modifying battery discharge and charge power limits in a vehicle powertrain that includes an electric battery as a power source. The modification compensates for inaccurate estimates of battery discharge and charge power limits by using a closed loop feedback control based on error between a battery voltage set point and commanded battery voltage.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for estimating engine power output for an engine in a hybrid electric vehicle powertrain that includes an electric motor and an electric generator. Selected powertrain variables, including electric motor torque and electric generator torque, are used in determining desired vehicle traction wheel torque and an estimated engine power. A calibrated delay in calculating estimated engine power following a time sampling of the values for motor torque and generator torque avoid inertial effects.

Abstract: A vehicle and method are provided that control engine start in the vehicle. The vehicle includes an electric machine operable to provide a starting torque to the engine. The vehicle also includes a battery capable of providing energy to operate the electric machine. A number of battery parameters are determined, including a discharge power limit, an output power, and an engine starting power level. The engine starting power level is related to the discharge power limit and an amount of output power for the battery necessary to operate the electric machine to provide the starting torque to the engine. When the output power of the battery is at or above the engine starting power level, the engine is automatically started.

Abstract: A notification system for a vehicle includes at least a first and a second power source. The notification system also includes a controller that is operable with the first and second power sources and is configured to determine operating modes of the first and second power sources. The controller is also adapted to generate signals that correspond to the operating modes and operating limitations of the vehicle to effect an audible indication in the form of a voice message that may include a vehicle system limitation message for a vehicle operator.

Abstract: A method for controlling starting of an internal combustion engine in a hybrid electric vehicle powertrain having multiple power flow paths to vehicle traction wheels from the engine and from an electric motor. A smoothness factor is calculated to determine how smooth an engine start should be. Engine operating variables regulate engine smoothness during engine start events as determined by the calculated smoothness factor appropriate for selected vehicle operating conditions.

Abstract: A vehicle and a method for controlling regenerative braking are provided. To take advantage of regenerative braking, the maximum available regenerative braking torque is utilized for some time during a braking event. As the vehicle speed and/or powertrain torque decreases, the regenerative braking torque is controlled to deviate from the maximum. The point at which the regenerative braking torque deviates from the maximum is chosen based on the level of vehicle deceleration. The regenerative braking torque is then smoothly blended out until it reaches zero. The regenerative braking torque is brought to zero when the vehicle speed is very low, thereby eliminating the inefficiencies associated with operating a motor at a very low speed. This control of the regenerative braking torque provides a smooth and consistent feel to the vehicle operator.