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What is the engine start-stop technology _ Is the engine start-stop technology useful?
There are many vehicles now equipped with automatic engine start-stop technology. For some drivers, the first thing they do when getting on the bus is to disable this feature. Others even discuss ways to bypass the system so they don’t have to manually turn off the engine every time they stop. But how much do you really know about this technology?
"Automatic start-stop," also known as STT (Start-Stop Technology), isn't a new concept. It has been around since the 1930s and became more widely used in the mid-1980s. In 1984, Volkswagen was the first to apply it to a diesel engine in the Golf model. Since then, several automakers like Mazda, Honda, Citroën, and GM began testing the system in limited production. By 2007, BMW started using it on a larger scale, marking a turning point for its mainstream adoption.
Today, this feature is found across a wide range of models, not just luxury brands like BMW and Mercedes-Benz, but also more affordable options such as Mazda, Roewe, and Emgrand. Many of these models come standard with automatic start-stop systems. According to a survey, in 2014, approximately 7% of new cars in China were equipped with this technology—around 2 million units. That’s six times the number from 2013. The trend is growing rapidly, and Ford plans to equip 70% of its models with this feature by 2017.
**What is Engine Start-Stop Technology?**
Engine start-stop technology, often referred to as STT, is a system that automatically turns off the engine when the vehicle comes to a stop and restarts it when needed. This helps save fuel by eliminating idle time. When the engine is off, the battery powers the cooling fan and air conditioning, reducing fuel consumption and emissions while improving fuel efficiency.
The system works by automatically shutting off the engine when the driver presses the brake pedal and the car comes to a complete stop. Once the driver releases the brake or turns the steering wheel, the engine restarts instantly, allowing for a smooth transition back into motion. This process happens in what's called the "D-stop" mode.
**What is the Purpose of This Technology?**
In heavy traffic or at red lights, the engine can automatically shut off and restart when needed, which reduces unnecessary fuel use and lowers emissions. This makes it especially beneficial in urban environments where frequent stops are common.
**Advantages and Disadvantages of Engine Start-Stop Technology**
(1) **Advantages**:
This technology helps reduce fuel consumption and emissions by minimizing engine idling. It also allows the vehicle's electrical systems to run without the engine running, such as the air conditioning and cooling fan. This leads to better fuel economy and environmental benefits.
(2) **Disadvantages**:
To support the frequent starting and stopping, the starter motor needs to be more durable, and high-quality engine oil is essential. Repeated use of the starter can cause overheating and damage over time. Additionally, the system may not activate under certain conditions, such as when the battery is low, the temperature is extreme, or the brake pressure drops below a set threshold.