Micro Hybrid Drive: How easy to implement on US 451s?

[08-4-2]

I saw a photo with Dr. Z in a Fortwo with "Micro Hybrid Drive" on the side of it. Supposedly, it can be quite the mileage booster.

From Autocar's (www.autocar.uk.co) review of the ForTwo 70 hp mhd:

What is it?
This is the new ‘stop-and-start’ Smart, the ForTwo mhd (for micro-hybrid). It uses a 71bhp version of the Mitsubishi-derived 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol engine, but ditches a normal starter motor and alternator in favour of a single, belt-driven starter-generator that performs both functions. Like other stop-start cars, the Smart’s engine stops when it isn’t needed and restarts as soon as the driver touches the gear selector.

So, if there is already a belt for the alternator ... shouldn't this be easy to implement provided that new code is flashed somewhere?

(BTW, I love this place. You can ask a question like this, and a few days later there is exhaustive debate and answers.)

[SMARTIEPANTS]

i have a 1972 international cub loboy,, a little tractor that i use to mow the grass with , it has a starter generator, which is the same thing as they are talking about,, works just fine unless the v-belt gets loose

[jwight]

Sounds like smart is hard at work on the MHD; good chance (IMO) it will come to North America if it goes into production. So, enjoy the current gas version until it's time to trade for the MHD smart.

John

[Chassol]

I would imagine it would not be real hard if this company were involved -

http://www.hybridtechnologies.com/.

Check out the 2007 smart they did for Sam's Club/ WalMart.

http://www.hybridtechnologies.com/fi...HTE001-069.wmv

http://www.hybridtechnologies.com/fi...HTE001-071.wmv

[oldbike]

Originally Posted by 08-4-2

I

So, if there is already a belt for the alternator ... shouldn't this be easy to implement provided that new code is flashed somewhere?

I am not an expert by any means, but it is not as simple as "flashing a code". It involves a large starter/alternator assembly, heavy-duty drive system as well as the software/hardware components necessary to make it all work. I would also assume a larger, more powerful battery would be necessary as well.
Perhaps someone more familiar with the system could give us a better description?