THE FIAT GROUP IN

means of control stations, and then uses special algorithms
to make diagnoses based on the data. This analysis helps
reduce maintenance costs, improve the quality of service
and control operating costs.
❚ Thesis Split Frame
This demonstration prototype, based on the Lancia Thesis,
was built using construction techniques aimed at reducing
process costs. The frame consists of two separate
structures elastically connected to each other: a lower,
adjustable, modular structure and an upper “body” of
the “space frame” type.
The proposed solution offers a great deal of freedom from
the point of view of style and design, while reducing internal
noise and vibrations and maintaining high levels of safety.
❚ Motor with Electronically Controlled Valves
This motor, which was built in collaboration with Magneti
Marelli as part of an EC project, received an award for best
innovation in vehicles from the EUCAR (European Council
for Automotive R&D). The primary benefit of this innovation
is a reduction, by as much as 15%, in fuel consumption
and carbon dioxide emissions.
Elasis
With 992 employees, Elasis has become an important
technical and scientific organization that supports the
innovation efforts of the Fiat Group’s manufacturing units.
In response to the growing use of information and
communication technologies in developing mobility solutions
(shorter travel times and increased safety) for the next
generation of vehicles, Elasis has established a new research
hub staffed with specialists in the fields of communication,
onboard data collection and management, and infomobility
systems. The mission of this new organization is to provide
effective methodological and operational support to the
process of incorporating these systems in new vehicles.
Elasis is determined to strengthen its links with the scientific
and academic community to encourage research in areas
that are of concrete interest for industry. With this in mind
and drawing on the positive experience it had when working
with the Federico II University of Naples through the PRODE
Consortium, it joined the Roma Tor Vergata University to
create the SCIRE Consortium, which will conduct research
on computational flowdynamics applied to engines, vehicles
aerodynamics, engine compartment cooling and passenger
compartment climate control.
The most significant achievements of 2001 are reviewed below:
❚ A vehicle-mounted demonstration prototype of a 1370-cc
motor that, thanks to important innovations, achieves a
substantial reduction in fuel consumption. This project will
make it possible to complete the FIRE line with an engine
that has such special features as reduced fuel consumption
and emissions, reduced operating costs and ease of
maintenance.
❚ In collaboration with Fiat-GM Powertrain, development of
a new, compact 6-speed transmission with a high range
of usable torque (160-280 Nm) that can be installed in cars
belonging to at least three different segments (B, C and D).
❚ A demonstration prototype of an innovative cooling system
that uses an electronically controlled water pump to reduce
fuel consumption, while at the same time reducing warm-up
time and improving interior climate control.
In 2001, Elasis, working with the City of Naples, completed
the ATENA Project, which involved the testing of a fleet of
vehicle prototypes with low environmental impact (electric,
methane-powered, bifuel and hybrid cars) and the construction
of an online system to manage and control urban traffic in
Naples. Elasis also did more work on behalf of government
agencies by participating in research and development projects
designed to improve highway safety, such as the one in
partnership with the Province of Milan.
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