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Projects: Argosy Hybrid (see
"Argo-1" at Sydney 2008 Truck Show)
Status: Prototype,
in production. Purpose;
Shorthaul, Linehaul and Interstate road freight
For a typical Sydney to Melbourne
run in Australia this
electric hybrid conversion is expected to reduce fuel consumption and emissions
output by 25%. This is a
distance of approximately 1,000 kilometres (600miles). Single trailers and
B-double trailers will be trilled on the Hume Highway run. On other routes
B-triple and double road trains will used to test maximum loading for this
electric hybrid system. Data will be posted on this site when available.
Preliminary
trials will start in September 2008.
Main Components:
Description:
This
conversion requires the rear diff/axle to be replaced with a duplicate front
diff/axle with the drive through shaft. The output shaft of this replacement diff/axle is connected to the
electric motor/generator. Batteries store the electricity for the
motor/generator. These are mounted between the chassis rails in front of the
turntable. The electric motor is liquid cooled, a suitable cooling unit is
fitted to the trucks chassis.
Meritor
46-160 Meritor tandem
drive
Replacement diff/axle 46-160 .
Operation:
Proposed
modes of operation for the hybrid vehicles include:
•Truck
leaves terminal with fully charged batteries via the electricity grid.
•Acceleration
using combination diesel and electric assistance.
•Highway
cruising using diesel only and cruise control.
•Hill
climbing, cruise control engages electric assistance to maintain road speed.
Diesel rpm's and throttle position remain static.
•Down
hill, regenerative braking slows the vehicle and recharges the batteries.
Diesel engine rpm's remain low, no over revving. Braking also recharges
batteries and saves brake wear.
•Quiet
mode, electric assist is engaged to maintain road speed while diesel engine
only idles. This is for travelling slowly through towns and cities to reduce
noise pollution.
Vehicle:
The
vehicle is a 07/2006 model Freightliner Argosy, 101 Prime Mover Sleeper Cab,
Eaton Fuller 18 speed Auto change, Cruise Control, "Cummins Signature"
6 Cyl, Diesel Turbo 550hp engine. Airbag Suspension 90,000 kg Meritor
46-160 3.33 ratio diffs,
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