Stop-Start Technology Goes Mainstream | Edmunds.com

Edmunds.com

Stop-Start Technology Goes Mainstream | Edmunds.com

Car shoppers can expect to find stop-start systems in 55 percent of new vehicles by 2024, according to a new report by Navigant Research.

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The problem that I've personally experienced with start/stop systems on regular, non-hybrid models is the delay in the engine restarting under more extreme circumstances. Say, for instance, jumping into moving traffic from a stop. I know someone that almost got hit because the car had just shut off a moment before she went to pull out in heavy traffic and when she went to hit it the car had not yet fully restarted, bucked badly, finally caught and took off. What would have a normal, if not slightly aggressive moment almost turned into disaster as the cars coming up on her had to check up sharply to avoid hitting her! And even under normal driving a noticeable bump can be felt as you release the brake to drive off.

On hybrids you have the benefit of an electric motor not only expediting the engine starting, but also moving the car down the road. I foresee other issues as well. Like the extra and undue wear and tear on the starter and alternator (manufacturers are back loading the alternator during the restart to help expedite the engine restarting). These parts on modern cars are usually very expensive to replace so it will be interesting to see how this pans out in the long run. The only bright spot is that these systems can currently be turned off at the push of a switch. While I can see the fuel saving benefits of this technology in heavy, stop and go traffic situations, it's nice to know that we can still over-ride this feature. For now.