Ford has appointed Essex-based Revolve Technologies as its European Quality Calibration Modifier (QCM). As part of this agreement, Revolve has been granted access to the complete engine data.
This means that hybrid vehicle OEMs can now use Ford engines with optimized engine management parameters, based on full technical information obtained through the authorized and supported QCM route.
Previously, OEMs had to purchase their ECUs for each engine design from third parties with no access to the Ford parameters that are essential to maximizing performance from hybrid engines.
Paul McDermott, sales director of Ford Component Sales, said, “By giving Revolve access to an open or development ECU, they can start work with the base calibration of a current Ford vehicle, and then work with customers, adjusting calibration settings to suit the customer’s application or vehicle.”
As engine designs become ever more complex, optimizing the ECU for new applications is an increasing challenge that requires access to complex datasets. Engines produced for hybrid vehicles using specially calibrated ECUs can offer improved reliability and fuel economy. Complying with Euro 6 emissions regulations in particular requires highly precise designs to meet the stringent emission requirements.
Revolve’s engineering manager, Bryn Slaney said, “There are many new opportunities to take advantage of this new development, as we now have infinitely variable control over what can be offered. Niche OEMs and volume producers of hybrid and conventional vehicles will benefit.”
