There is a revolution under way in the total scope of automotive technology. The immediate emphasis is on exploiting developments in propulsion system technology. Knowledge of revolution in design and operational principles of a new technology is prerequisite to understanding the logistical impacts and implications. The typical configuration for a hybrid propulsion unit includes a conventional engine, generator, battery pack and electric type motors. The hybrid propulsion vehicle is empowered by the coordinated outputs of a fuel-powered subsystem and a battery-powered subsystem. The hybrid propulsion system typically features a small conventional engine, such as a diesel or fuel cell, which powers a generator, which in turn charges the battery. The onboard generator ensures that the battery is constantly recharged. This technological concept represents a notable advance in the state-of-the-art when compared to all-electric vehicles. Although hybrid-electric systems are now commerically available for light duty applications, the emphasis herein is on the momentum in development of hybrid-electric technology for large, heavy duty military and commercial vehicles. The missions of military and commercial heavy-duty vehicles reflect the demands of rugged operational environments as well as the logistics complexities posed by the variations in driving cycles. Extensive hybrid propulsion research by the U.S. Army with HUMVEE prototypes has resulted in some significant findings and conclusions. A standard HUMVEE gets 8 miles per gallon driving on hard roads at convoy speed. The hybrid drive HUMVEE under the same scenario would double the efficiency to 16 miles per gallon. For quiet operations, the vehicle could operate with only electric power and would run for 20 miles to 25 miles on electric power before it must be recharged. Driving at a lower speed would extend the operational range. A truck with a 24 gallon tank operating with hybrid-electric drive could travel 375 miles before refueling. A vehicle with conventional power would be limited to 275 miles.


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    Title :

    Hybrid propulsion system - revolutionary technology with revolutionary logistics challenges


    Contributors:

    Published in:

    Logistics Spectrum ; 36 , 3 ; 39-47


    Publication date :

    2002


    Size :

    9 Seiten, 11 Bilder



    Type of media :

    Article (Journal)


    Type of material :

    Print


    Language :

    English