Hyundai develops Active Shift Control for Hybrids

Hyundai has developed what is claimed to be the world's first Active Shift Control (ASC) transmission technology for hybrid vehicles. The system is said to reduce gearshift times by 30% and improve fuel economy.

According to Hyundai, ASC applies a new control logic software to the Hybrid Control Unit (HCU). The HCU monitors the rotational speed of the transmission with a sensor installed inside the electric motor at 500 times per second to quickly synchronise its rotational speed with the engine. 

The system is claimed to reduce shift time from 500 ms to 350 ms as well as improve acceleration and fuel economy of the hybrid vehicle. Also, reduced friction is said to make the transmission last longer.

Conventional hybrid vehicles do not use torque converters due to higher transmission losses. They also require longer shift times for smoother gear changes and higher fuel efficiency.

Active Shift Control will be offered on upcoming Hyundai and Kia hybrids.