Drive belts for environmental protection

Against the background of the climate debate, the automotive industry constantly demands new ecologically friendly solutions. With that in mind, ContiTech, as automotive supplier, has developed special multiple V-ribbed belts and timing belts that help reduce carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. But ContiTech has also responded to the growing requirements for modern, heavy-duty drive systems with further innovations.

The belt-driven starter generator (BSG) is an example of a step in the direction of ecological efficiency. With the BSG, fuel consumption can be reduced by 5% to 10% in stop-and-go traffic. This allows CO2 emissions to be lowered effectively on congested streets in the city. At the BSG, CONTI® TOUGH GRIP, a special high-performance multiple V-ribbed belt with an aramid tension member and new surface technology transmits the torque between the combustion engine and a special electric motor that enables the engine to be started conveniently and swiftly. Employing known components, it is thus possible to integrate into the conventional belt operation a start-stop concept brilliantly characterized by good functionality combined with low system weight.

As an alternative to a chain drive, timing belts also impressively reduce CO2 emissions. The CONTI® GREEN RUNNER developed by ContiTech can be used like a chain and has a longer service life than the engine. The advantage that this innovative component has over a chain drive is a reduction in frictional loss of up to 30%, depending on the rpm range. This translates into a 1 to 2% drop in CO2 emissions, or a reduction of 3 grams per 150 grams. Certain major European automakers intend to cash in on these low-friction timing belts in their upcoming engine generation with a switch back from chains to timing belts.

A new drive belt developed by the ContiTech Power Transmission Group makes continuously variable transmission (CVT) possible for small cars too. The so-called hybrid ring runs without lubrication and does not require a hydraulic pump. This means less weight and lower space requirements – two very important considerations in the small car category. As no hydraulics are required, less energy is consumed which would otherwise have to be produced by the engine. In this way, the hybrid ring in the CVT technology makes a contribution towards a further reduction in CO2 emissions.