Back around 2000 (!)  I got to run around part of Germany in a ISAD fitted Ford Diesel. ISAD = Integrated Starter Alternator Dampener.  Prototype, so it was a blast to hit the streets with it.

 

The vehicle was a 50hp diesel, but the ISAD could "pump" up to 70hp for around a minute. It allow for 'instant start' (engine would go from 0 to 700 rpm in less than a second... perfect for killing the engine and the timed red lights intersections). Integrated Starter.

 

Flip of a switch would smooth the diesel pulse (i.e. kill the rattle by storing/releasing energy). Dampener function.

 

The system was designed to allow for 'electric accessories' (i.e. air conditioner, steering rack, etc).  It was a pretty cool vehicle, most of these components are finally in the market place.

 

Side note on the 42V system... one of the biggest reasons is to 'preheat' the catalyzer with an electrical grid so cold start emissions were reduced.   Obviously you can down size the wiring with that voltage, and would help with the ISAD system but it was developed with emission/weight reduction in mind.

 

Back to the Ford Fiesta, think of two engineers having fun at stop lights. Kill ISAD and let the diesel rattle... BMW pulls up, and suddenly we take off like a rabbit.... next light, repeat this, next like the BMW owner is getting upset that a little diesel keeps beating him and lights it up!

Our 'energy storage' was only good for a minute (light weight) so only would help getting up to speed or passing.... not sustained speeds.

 

Tom

(digest mode)