Embedded Computing focuses on the controllers or computers that are inside our everyday gadgets. In this article: Green up: Automotive solutions designed faster, smarter – By Don Dingee they discuss GM’s use of simulation tools to cut the development time of their current production two-mode hybrid systems:
It was imperative for GM to get the Two-Mode Hybrid power train into production quickly, and to do that, they turned to math and simulation-based tools from The MathWorks. Using Model-Based Design, GM designed the power train prototype within 9 months, shaving 24 months off the expected development time. The complex control system is currently in production in the GMC Sierra Hybrid, GMC Yukon Hybrid, Chevy Tahoe Hybrid, Chevy Silverado Hybrid, and Cadillac Escalade Hybrid vehicles.
Not everyone appreciates that the GM two-mode hybrids are seriously excellent engineering. This also documents that GM is becoming more agile as they go — but that it is not just something that started this year. Still lots more room for improvement, but GM and Cadillac have been on an arc of improved design and engineering for the last 2 decades.