Chrysler 2003 Annual Report Download - page 17

16 Report on Operations Innovation and Technology
two-ring piston and a new valve actuation control on several
versions of the FIRE engine significantly reduced on-vehicle fuel
consumption. Significant progress was also made in optimizing
NVH (Noise, Vibration and Harshness) and in developing new
manual and robotized transmissions.
Elasis also continued to hone its skills – and make major
investments – in the electronic control systems that are playing
an increasingly vital role in today’s cars. During the year, Elasis
wrapped up many of these skills in a single package with its
development of a one-of-a-kind simulation bench – a true
“virtual car” – that slashes the time needed to fine-tune control
systems and debug on-board electronics.
The full benefits of engineering research can only be achieved
by leveraging the power of an advanced ICT system. This is why
Elasis has deployed an ICT function capable of supporting
engineering activities and generating research in the area.
During the year, for example, a knowledge management portal
was set up in order to capitalize on the center’s store of
engineering knowledge.
Elasis’s work is by no means restricted to vehicle research, but
also addresses the many mobility and traffic safety issues that
revolve around the automobile. As part of this wider purview,
the center’s research also focuses on experimental materials,
technologies and telematics systems. Similarly, Elasis strives to
broaden its understanding of safety-related problems through
joint research initiatives with public agencies and infrastructure
operators. Major projects of this kind saw Elasis partnered with
the Province of Milan, the Province of Perugia, the Municipality
of Salerno and Southern Italy’s highway concessionaire
Autostrade Meridionali.