As Audi, Porsche and other luxury brands show their concepts for the electric future in Frankfurt, Jaguar Land Rover has released details of three R&D projects that explore three different levels of electrification.

The Concept_e MHEV is a mild-hybrid system featuring an electric motor/generator that regenerates braking energy, stores it in a battery and uses it to power accessories such as a starter motor and air conditioner. The hybrid module is installed between the transmission and diesel engine of a Range Rover Evoque.

The Concept_e PHEV pairs a 4-cylinder gas engine with a 350 V synchronous electric motor, also sandwiched between the engine and transmission, that can power the wheels alone or in conjunction with the engine.

The Concept_e BEV is an all-electric powertrain that fits JLR’s new lightweight aluminum platform. It has a 70 kWh battery pack located under the floor, and one electric motor for each axle (and looks strikingly similar to the AWD system used by a certain California carmaker).

JLR is also joining the EV climate control discussion (see JOSPEL, Fraunhofer and Bosch) as it investigates several technologies, from a system for recirculating heated air to small infrared panels that provide localized heating for passengers.

“This is a long-term research project exploring all aspects of future hybrid and battery electric vehicle technology,” said Jaguar Land Rover R&D Chief Wolfgang Epple. “The three Concept_e vehicles will allow us to test and develop exciting new potential technologies that could form part of our low and zero emissions vision beyond 2020.”

Source: Green Car Reports