Remote Hybrid Helper For Semi Trucks
A new hybrid vehicle prototype could make cargo transportation a lot more energy efficient. The add-on system uses a special trailer that provides a power assist on hills and uses regenerative braking technology to recharge the onboard battery system. The system works similar to a hybrid car; the motor generators produce electricity via regenerative braking instead of normal friction brakes, and a bank of batteries can be mounted under the trailer chassis to store this energy. When the truck/trailer combo needs to accelerate or go uphill, electric power flows from the batteries to the motors to provide some or all the power needed to propel the truck. It is one of several potential systems that aim to increase fuel economy and reduce the carbon emissions from heavily polluting tractor trailers.
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April 30th, 2008
I’d be interested to know how much it would cost. What would the ROI be? I like to see an 18 month ROI goal, ideally, as technology can change in 18 month periods.
IF not 18 months, then ROI greater than the life of the vehicle will not be practical.
April 30th, 2008
Wonder if it would make sense to ‘rent’ these for trips over big humps such as the ‘Grapevine’ between the CA Central Valley and LA? Over the Sierras or Rockies?
They might not be needed/pay for themselves over long flat stretches.
April 30th, 2008
That is the same idea I want to try on my car. I drive 47 miles per day to work and 42 miles of it is open highway. I am a firm believer that I can get a lot better fuel economy with just a little assist at highway speeds. I can gain up to 30% with a tail wind.
May 20th, 2008
I really think that this idea is really cool. I think that they should be helping all Hybrid trucks around the country.