3157 February 6, 1997 SatCon Technology Corporation The inherent limitation of chemical batteries to store and release energy has proven to be the most significant obstacle in the commercialization of hybrid

hybrid electric vehicles. While flywheel energy storage systems present viable alternatives, high power densities can only be achieved by high speed operation. This project will develop a motor alternator for an efficient, low-cost, high speed flywheel system with the overall goal of producing a commercially-viable hybrid electric vehicle for the automotive industry. Phase I will identify and characterize the mechanisms that result in increased rotor losses in permanent magnet machines. Different permanent magnet materials, and components will be integrated in a design optimization approach minimizing cost and maximizing efficiency. An experimental motor/generator will be designed that can be built and tested in Phase II. Anticipated Results/Potential Commercial Applications as described by the awardee: The low-cost motor alternator should be suitable for eventual deployment in an efficient, low-cost, high-speed flywheel energy storage system contributing to the production of a commercially-viable hybrid electric vehicles. Following appropriate scaling, other commercial applications include machine tools and electric utility energy storage.