Chrysler 2008 Annual Report Download - page 32

Report on Operations Research and Innovation 31
Elasis also participated in developing the new cab for Iveco
medium and heavy trucks.
Development of body shell and trim for two new 8-cylinder
Ferrari models also continued.
Electronic control systems. Elasis continued development of
methodologies for FGA in electrical system development and
simulation. Transfers to other Sectors were intensified,
extending methods developed for FGA to CNH and Iveco and
providing on-site training for FIASA.
Elasis continued to develop and improve Hardware-in-the-Loop
and Software-in-the-Loop methods for the Fiat Group Sectors for
testing and for automation of functional tests for electrical and
electronic systems. During the year, for example, a Hardware-in-
the-Loop video system was produced which integrates a
programmable TV camera in the test environment to automatically
check the status of ECU-controlled indicator lamps and displays.
Elasis also assisted Ferrari in developing a number of
electronic control systems, including those for the Dual Clutch
transmission, the traction system for the E-2WD
demonstrator, the high-performance ABS system on the F430
Scuderia prototype, the Start&Stop system, and instrument
panels and electrical/electronic architectures for several
Ferrari models.
Fire engines. Elasis conduct product engineering activities on
the Fire Multiair engine, the first application of the innovative
Multiair valve control system. Combining the new technology
(developed entirely by FPT) with the Fire engine will bring
further improvements in fuel economy while at the same time
increasing the engine’s power output. The engine will be
produced in 135 and 105 horsepower versions. A 165 hp
version is also planned for high-performance vehicles. In
addition to this work, Elasis carried out product engineering
on the Small Gasoline Engine, which will be produced in
turbocharged and naturally aspirated versions. This engine,
which features all the benefits of ultra-downsizing, will have
significantly lower CO2emissions and will be installed on
compacts, sub-compacts and entry level mid-size cars. A
turbocharged natural gas version of this engine is now in the
design stage.