Fiat starts selling ethanol-powered hybrids: what's behind the new 'bio-hybrid'

Fiat introduced Bio-Hybrid technology in the Pulse and Fastback crossovers in Brazil. This technology combines hybrid powertrains with biofuels, specifically ethanol, to reduce emissions and promote affordable mobility.

Here's How It Works

At the heart of the system is a 1.0-litre turbocharged engine that runs on both petrol and ethanol. The three-cylinder motor produces 130bhp. It doesn't sound impressive, but Fiat claims that the Fastback and Pulse are the most powerful in their segment. Power output is sent to the front wheels via a variator (CVT) that mimics seven gears.

Fiat Pulse Impetus Hybrid

Fiat has equipped the Fastback and Pulse with a pair of 12-volt batteries: a 68 Ah lead-acid capacity in the engine compartment and an 11 Ah lithium-ion capacity under the driver's seat. Together, these batteries support a 4 hp electric motor, which provides additional torque to the internal combustion engine and charges both batteries in regeneration mode.

Fiat Fastback Impetus Hybrid

Fiat claims an 11.5 per cent reduction in fuel consumption for the Fastback and 10.7 per cent for the Pulse compared to the non-electrified version of the ethanol-compatible engine.

Why ethanol?

Brazil is the second largest producer of ethanol in the world and the country makes extensive use of sugar cane to produce it. It was in Brazil that Fiat produced the first car compatible with pure ethanol, the Model 147, in 1979. According to the association ANFAVEA, in 2022, 83 per cent of cars sold in Brazil will have an engine that can run on ethanol.

What's next.

At the moment, the Fiat Fastback and Pulse are mild hybrids (mild-hybrids), but Fiat brand-owning Stellantis Corporation has already announced plans for full self-charging hybrids (HEVs) and plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) with ethanol capability. Competitors including General Motors and Honda Motor have also announced ethanol hybrids, so the battle for the Brazilian market continues.

Source: Fiat