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Auto supplier eyes using vehicle data to improve engine efficiency

Steve Carmody
/
Michigan Radio

A major auto supplier is showing off technology it says will significantly improve engine efficiency.

Delphi Technologies is developing a new system to take advantage of all the bits of data today’s vehicles generate to make them more efficient. The system will use onboard and other connected vehicle technology to assist drivers with speed and braking to reduce wasted energy.

Company officials showed off the early stage system to the auto news media at Kettering University’s autonomous vehicle test track in Flint.

“We’re going to get at least 10% fuel economy improvement just by understanding the data that’s coming in and using it for the propulsion system,” says James Jeffers, the director of advanced technologies at Delphi Technologies.

Company officials say it will probably be at least another three years before automakers will include their system in new vehicles.

Delphi Technologies emerged from the former GM supplier in 2017. The UK-based company has struggled in the past year.Last week, the company posted a 50% decline in net third quarter income. Last month, Delphi Technologies' CEO resigned. 

Company officials are predicting business will turn around by 2020.  

Steve Carmody has been a reporter for Michigan Public since 2005. Steve previously worked at public radio and television stations in Florida, Oklahoma and Kentucky, and also has extensive experience in commercial broadcasting.