The Volvo Hybrid Drive big rig tractor was recently shown at the SAE International Truck and Bus Exposition in Portland Oregon. The hybrid propulsion system consists of 2-250 hp AC Induction electric motors, fitted in parallel to the main drive shaft along with a standard 600 hp V-6 Detroit Diesel engine. As the Volvo hybrid tractor takes off from stop, the batteries stored behind the cab provide electrical energy to the 2 electric motors that robustly drive the big rig off the line at quick speeds (as quick as a Camero and no black smoke belching).
Mirror reflects the the underside of Volvo hybrid 18 wheeler, showing the 2-250 hp electric motors, generator, and fuel tank.
When the rig gets up to 40 mph
the V6 diesel engine kicks in to get the rig up to 60 mph. Then the electric motors shut
off and the efficient diesel engine goes down the road. If hill climbing takes place the
500 hp electric motors also kick in and the rig bolts up the hill. During downhill breaking
or coming to a stop the additional 250 hp electric motor generator is placed in regenerative
mode and the hybrid rig slows down putting energy back into the 56 batteries. This new hybrid
process drastically enhances accelleration, improves fuel effficiency, and reduces emissions.
Subscribe to Electrifying Times and get Preview 2002 which gives more details on this Volvo
hybrid big rig as well as 14 other revolutary hybrids coming to the public sector in
2002-2003.