Chrysler 2010 Annual Report Download - page 52

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system will also be developed for application on hybrid vehicles. Beginning with new models produced from
1 January 2011, the new MAC directive issued by the European Union prohibits use of the refrigerant R134a
for air-conditioning on cars. The use of HFO-1234yf, which has been chosen as a replacement refrigerant,
will require modification of the entire system. HFO-1234yf is a fluid and has different properties to R134a,
which is a gas, including a lower refrigerant capacity, requiring optimization of the air-conditioning unit, and
is highly flammable, necessitating a review of all system components and evaluation of the impacts on the
work environment and filling systems.
Advanced vehicles, materials and processes
A central objective is to improve the eco-sustainability of vehicles and manufacturing process through the
development of economically sustainable solutions for products and processes. This objective is shared at
European level through the Green Cars Initiative, in which CRF participates actively as a member of the
Industrial Advisory Group.
The most significant achievements in this area during 2010 include:
Iveco Glider. This concept vehicle, presented by Iveco at the 2010 IAA International Motor Show in
Hanover, is the fruit of a creative collaboration between Iveco and CRF. It is a new vehicle concept that
offers high productivity and low environmental impact. The project focused on two key elements: energy
efficiency and on-board comfort and functionality. In terms of energy efficiency, researchers developed a
Kinetic Energy Recovery System (KERS), which enables the recovery of kinetic energy that would otherwise
be dissipated as heat during braking, in addition to a thermodynamic system based on a Rankine cycle that
recovers heat from the engine that would otherwise be dispersed through the exhaust and radiator. The
Glider also generates renewable energy on-board using highly efficient and flexible solar panels that take up
approximately 2 square meters on the roof of the cab and are capable of producing up to 2kW of energy.
Finally, any excess electric energy not used by the auxiliary systems is stored in an Auxiliary Energy Unit for
use as an energy source when the vehicle is stationary. Research into significantly reducing aerodynamic
drag, the use of new on-board energy management systems and the adoption of heat exchangers and low
rolling resistance tires also contributed to the dramatic reduction in consumption and emissions. With regard
to on-board comfort and functionality, the Glider was designed around the driver’s specific needs with the
cabin containing the latest technological solutions in terms of ergonomics, infomobility, lighting, climate
control and space management.
Eco-compatible and recycled materials. In 2010, CRF further increased its commitment to solutions
which address the environmental impacts (including CO2 emissions) from plastic components used in
vehicles. Tests were carried out with biopolymer matrix compounds and recycled end-of-life materials
reinforced with micronized natural fibers to enhance their structural characteristics, while also improving
aesthetics.
At the same time, CRF continued to monitor the percentage of recycled materials utilized in the Group’s
vehicles, increasing their use, particularly in non-aesthetic areas such as acoustic insulation. In 2010, analysis
also continued into the impacts on the automotive sector of general environmental regulations, such as
Classification Labelling & Packaging (CLP) and Registration Evaluation Authorisation and Restriction of
Chemicals (REACH). For the second of these two regulations an investigation was conducted on Substances
of Very High Concern (SVHCs) whose use may be restricted over the next few years. Alternatives are being
tested for all SVHC materials currently used in the Group’s vehicles. Finally, Life Cycle Assessments (LCAs)
were conducted to evaluate the environmental impacts of the new fluid refrigerant HFO 1234yf throughout
its entire lifecycle, comparing it with R134a and with CO2, and of phosphatization processes that could serve
as alternatives to the current process based on nanocomposites derived from zirconium salts.