Adura Systems, a stealth mode startup developing series hybrid engine technology for the next generation of hybrid cars, has attracted an undisclosed amount of funding in a strategic investment from wind developer New Frontier Renewable Energy.
The series hybrid car has been gaining attention, despite the success of the parallel hybrid engine which is used in the Prius and other current hybrid vehicles. A series plug-in relies entirely on electricity for drivetrain power, while the fuel-burning engine only recharges the battery -- a simpler, and therefore cheaper design than the parallel hybrid, which has a drivetrain each for the electric and fuel motors.
The company says it can deliver "near zero emissions and extreme fuel efficiency" for the bus and truck market, and is working with the China Automotive Technology and Research Center (CATARC) in China.
However, Adua isn't talking about its current progress or specific plans. It's based in Los Altos, Calif.