Shell develops energy efficient concept car

Shell has unveiled a new concept car that promises greater energy efficiency and reduced emissions. Based on Gordon Murray's patented iStream platform, (T.25 city car introduced in 2010) this concept car by Shell features major technical alterations as well as a bespoke engine oil by Shell. These collectively result in a lower carbon dioxide emissions than a normal petrol powered city car (28 per cent) as well as a hybrid vehicle (32 per cent), The car also delivered a five per cent improvement in fuel efficiency, at 38kmpl, while driving at 70 kmph. The tests were conducted under the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC)

The prototype oil is based on the Shell Helix Ultra. According to the company, the car delivers 34 per cent reduction in primary energy consumption, over its entire life cycle, when compared to a normal city car in the UK.

To achieve this, the engineers had to reduce friction in the engine. While Shell was developing the oil, engine head Osamu Goto of Geo Technology, reworked on the T.25's three-cylinder engine, optimising engine components that cause friction.

Mark Gainsborough, executive vice-president,  Shell global lubricants business said, "This is a significant automobile engineering milestone. I'm very proud of what Shell's scientists and their partners at Geo Technology and Gordon Murray Design have achieved. Insights gained from this project could be transformational in terms of how we address energy use in the road transport sector. Energy use and climate change are major issues for society. This project shows that if we use the best of today's technology, including cutting edge lubricants science, we could potentially have a major impact on energy use and reduce CO2 emissions. The improvement in economy derived from the collaborative design of engine and lubricant is impressive and highlights the enormous benefits achieved from close relationships between design partners. It also shows the powerful role that lubricants can potentially play in helping achieve CO2 reduction targets."

The car itself looks cute and is quite a packaging genius. It's amazing how there's a triangular three seat configuration, like the iconic McLaren F1, in such a little car.

Andrew Hepher, vice president, Shell lubricant research team said, "Our car may be small, but it's packed with potential. We want to accelerate the conversation about how we make road vehicles more energy efficient and less carbon-intensive. In the coming weeks and months, we look forward to sharing our research insights from this project with engine designers, car manufacturers, academics and other experts across the automotive sector."