Abstract: A system and method for balancing the states of charge between a plurality of energy storage modules in a hybrid vehicle is disclosed. The method comprises determining states of charge of individual energy storage modules in said plurality of energy storage modules operatively connected to a power source in the hybrid electric vehicle. The vehicle is operated using a subset of the plurality of energy storage modules when the states of charge of said subset the plurality of energy storage modules is outside of a tolerances relative to the remaining energy storage modules of said plurality of said energy storage modules. The energy storage modules may be charged or discharged using the method in order to equalize the states of charge of the energy storage modules.

Abstract: A powertrain architecture includes an engine and a transmission coupled through a launch device that is configured to be selectively mechanically coupled to the engine and to the transmission. A ring gear is positioned at least partially around the launch device. An engine lock up clutch mechanically couples the engine to the ring gear. A turbine lock up clutch mechanically couples the launch device to the ring gear. Ancillary devices are provided to receive power from or transmit power to the ring gear. The engine lock up clutch and the turbine lock up clutch selectively engage the ring gear to power at least one ancillary device.

Abstract: A system and method for balancing the states of charge between a plurality of energy storage modules in a hybrid vehicle is disclosed. The method comprises determining states of charge of individual energy storage modules in said plurality of energy storage modules operatively connected to a power source in the hybrid electric vehicle. The vehicle is operated using a subset of the plurality of energy storage modules when the states of charge of said subset the plurality of energy storage modules is outside of a tolerances relative to the remaining energy storage modules of said plurality of said energy storage modules. The energy storage modules may be charged or discharged using the method in order to equalize the states of charge of the energy storage modules.

Abstract: A powertrain architecture includes an engine and a transmission coupled through a launch device that is configured to be selectively mechanically coupled to the engine and to the transmission. A ring gear is positioned at least partially around the launch device. An engine lock up clutch mechanically couples the engine to the ring gear. A turbine lock up clutch mechanically couples the launch device to the ring gear. Ancillary devices are provided to receive power from or transmit power to the ring gear. The engine lock up clutch and the turbine lock up clutch selectively engage the ring gear to power at least one ancillary device.