Compact PM Sensors for Hybrid and Plug-In Vehicles

1. Hybrid Powertrain Emission Nuances

Hybrid and plug‑in hybrid electric vehicles combine electric motors with internal combustion engines (ICE) that may run only intermittently. During cold starts and high-load bursts, these engines can emit spikes of particulate matter. Monitoring these transient emissions is critical to maintain compliance and protect after-treatment hardware.

2. Design Requirements for Space- and Power-Constrained Vehicles

Unlike traditional powertrains, hybrids demand compact sensors with minimal power draw. Our PM sensors use a miniaturized optical sensing chamber and low-voltage electronics, occupying 40% less space than conventional units and drawing under 1W in standby—perfect for battery-powered environments.

3. Seamless Integration with ICE and Electric Systems

Effective emission control in hybrids depends on synchronized data: battery state, motor assistance, and engine-on events. Our sensors support both CAN and LIN interfaces, delivering PM data while coexisting with high-voltage wiring. Flexible mounting kits allow installation near range extenders or auxiliary generators without disrupting vehicle layouts.

4. Smart Regeneration During Drive Cycles

Hybrid control strategies can exploit electric-only phases to preheat exhaust systems. By feeding real-time soot measurements from our PM sensors into the vehicle’s control logic, regeneration can be triggered during optimal thermal windows—reducing fuel use and preventing filter overheating.

5. Case Studies in PHEVs and Range Extenders

In a recent deployment on a fleet of delivery vans, our compact PM sensors enabled seamless integration into PHEV range extenders. The result: a 25% faster DPF regeneration process, 18% fuel savings during regeneration cycles, and full compliance with Euro 6d standards—even under frequent start‑stop conditions.

For hybrid and plug-in platforms, emission monitoring must adapt to irregular engine operation. Our compact PM sensors provide accurate, low-power readings and easy integration, ensuring that even the most advanced electrified vehicles stay clean and compliant.