PARIS — Valeo’s StARS micro-hybrid system yesterday received the 2008 Automechanika Innovation Award in the systems category.

This award, which was presented yesterday at the Automechanika show in Frankfurt, Germany, recognizes particularly innovative technologies presented at the show.

Valeo’s StARS micro-hybrid system cuts off the engine when the vehicle stops at a red light or in a traffic jam, and restarts it quickly and silently when the driver releases the brake or engages a gear. This technology enables a reduction in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions of up to 25 percent in very dense urban traffic.

Available as original equipment on the Citroen C2 and C3, smart mhd, and Mercedes A and B Class, StARS is also being launched in the aftermarket.