| HERO | This project is closed |
| Hybrid-Electric Realised Off Road |
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Context Hybrid vehicles represent a major change in the overall architecture of road vehicles and therefore represent a significant risk to manufacturers and early adopters. An incremental route through a "mild" hybrid architecture has been identified in which an electric motor/generator would be used at times to supplement the engine power or to derive limited amounts of electrical power from it. Aims To demonstrate that the application of hybrid powertrain technology in the form of a "mild hybrid" can enhance both the performance and functionality of a vehicle and reduce its environmental impact. This could significantly reduce exhaust emissions and allow the use of regenerative braking to make significant gains in efficiency. Method Adapt a Land Rover Defender to create a parallel "mild" hybrid drivetrain in which the starter motor and the alternator are replaced with a single electrical machine which is capable of either efficiently generating high voltage electricity or providing motoring torque.. Evaluate the vehicle to explore the performance of the modified vehicle and demonstrate its advantages. Benefits Reduced emissions through the buffering of the engine during acceleration transients Improved fuel economy, primarily from the utilisation of regenerative braking Improved performance and towing capability due to the additional available torque Improved ability, safety and control during off-road operation due to intelligent torque control Increase the viability of utilising electrically-powered ancillaries Participants Magnetic Systems Technology Ltd Defence Evaluation & Research Agency (DERA) University of Warwick |
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