Abstract: A battery and an electrically heated catalytic converter (EHC) are connected to an alternator in a parallel arrangement via a changeover switch. The changeover switch operates between a first position where it connects the battery to the alternator and a second position where it connects the EHC to the alternator. An electronic control unit (ECU) is provided for controlling the changeover switch and the alternator. When the changeover switch is to be switched between the first and the second position, the ECU first terminates the power generation of the alternator before it actually switches the changeover switch in order to reduce the electric current flowing through the switch.

Abstract: An emergency stop warning system for an automobile with a hydraulically operated brake system and that includes an electric power supply, a warning sound emitting electrically operated horn connected with the power supply, a normally open fluid pressure actuated switch electrically connected between the power supply and the horn and hydraulically connected with the brake system; that the hydraulically actuated switch is set to close and cause the horn to sound when fluid pressure in the braking system is increased to cause the automobile to decelerate and stop at a faster than normal rate.

Abstract: A drive assembly for an electric vehicle comprises a D.C. electric motor and an integrated charger controller for controlling the D.C. electric motor in a drive mode of operation and for charging a battery in a charge mode of operation. The integrated charger/controller includes a power module, (ii) a step-down module, and (iii) a control circuit. During the charge mode of operation, the input of the power module is connected to an electric power source and the power module provides a D.C. current output. Selected switches of the control circuit connect the output of the power module to the input of a step-down module, and connect the output of the step-down module to the terminals of the battery to charge it during the drive mode of operation, selected switches of the control circuit connect the terminals of the battery to the input of the power module, and connect the output of the power module to the D.C. motor to control the D.C. motor.