portrait of powertrain systems that will ensure our success in the long term. ‹F›: What role do you think that electrified powertrains have to play in providing affordable CO2 reduction solutions? ‹Denise Gray›: Electrified powertrains bring all kinds of dimensions to automotive. 2 2 F o c u s It is an additional energy source which allows for more capability for the vehicle as a whole. The internal combustion engine has had over a century of development, refinement and focus. And this maturity has allowed it to be a low cost solution as a primary energy source for the vehicle. The electrified powertrain is still many years away from reaching that same level of maturity. Hybrid vehicles have been on the road for over a decade now for a number of OEMs, and in that time the technology industry has been able to bring the cost down. The cost for electrified powertrains today is on a downward slope. I’m confident that AVL will have a significant role to play in evolving the role of electric powertrains and bringing down costs still further. ‹F›: What areas of the powertrain offer the most exciting opportunities? ‹Denise Gray›: There is scope across the whole powertrain but it’s fair to say that the battery is by far the leading candidate for a reduction in cost. AVL’s commitment to investing in resources and technology in this area will make it an increasingly major player. AVL is in a very unique position because we’re not tied to today’s technology, we’re not tied to a certain chemistry or format, therefore, we can continue to be open and innovative. ‹F›: How does AVL’s global reach help in terms of responding to the needs of its customer for developing new electrified solutions? ‹Denise Gray›: AVL is in a unique position because of its vast global footprint. Having a huge presence in Europe, US, and in Asia means that it is well positioned to have an open ear to regional requirements, regional technology capability, and therefore, be able to understand the global customer needs. We obviously also need to have an ear to other locations and I think AVL is very alert to this. Because we’ve got people in the company who have worked at vehicle companies and tier 1 suppliers in locations around the world, our projects are focused on solutions for real world problems. That is how you gain the closed loop learning that allow you to mature your analysis, your designs, your test systems that enhance your fuel economy improvements and emission reduction designs. ‹F›: Automotive has historically been a very male-dominated industry. Do you think that this is changing? ‹Denise Gray›: My primary focus is to do a great job and use my skills and experience to get the best possible company results. That said, I am extremely excited for women in technology because I think that new technology is a door that can attract more women into the industry and offer more opportunities. <
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