With each passing day, green automotive technology gets better and better. Transmission specialist Torotrak is working with Land Rover to produce a mechanical hybrid system with a small infinitely variable transmission with a tiny flywheel.

The system is quite similar to the KERS (kinetic energy recovery systems) to be used in Formula 1 this season. KERS is a regenerative braking mechanism that converts kinetic energy to energy that the vehicle can use to boost efficiency.

As the car brakes, the energy that goes through the IVT is used to spin the flywheel at up to 64,000rpm. When the car accelerates again, that stored kinetic energy is discharged, providing a boost in power and increased energy efficiency.

Torotrak is poised to be successful in its development as it has gained support from US transmission-maker Allison. Wit the combined technologies of the two companies, both are poised to be able to deliver better transmission systems.

This new transmission is set to be used in Jaguar and Land Rover lines.

Source: Autocar