ePower Engine Systems, llc. is a developer of hybrid electric drive train technology for Class 8 trucks. It was issued US Patent 8,783,396 on July 22, 2014 encompassing their drive train technology.[1] ePower is in the final stages of its Research and Development of a diesel electric kit for rebuilding older Class 8 trucks. The kit consists of a road-certified diesel engine, batteries, electric motor and an automatic transmission from major manufacturers.[2]

Technique

ePower Engine Systems' technique is to have a diesel generator drive an electric motor and utilize an automatic transmission to drive the wheels of large Class 8 trucks (called semi trucks in the USA). Batteries are used to store additional power needed to climb grades and recharged either by the genset or regenerative braking.[1] The diesel engine being used is about 1/2 the size of a normal engine found in one of these trucks. Therefore, the diesel consumption is about thirty to forty percent less than a normal truck.[3][4][5] The company is currently experimenting with an Eaton 10-speed transmission and Super capacitors. The Cummins diesel engine, Marathon generator and Marathon electric motor remain as in prior versions of the kit.

References

  1. 1 2 US Patent 8,783,396
  2. ↑ "http://www.epowerengines.com/technology.html"
  3. ↑ "http://nebula.wsimg.com/9a30b82ef429afaee7fb299df5e2bf7e?AccessKeyId=730A7BBD752D90E9E14F&disposition=0&alloworigin=1"
  4. ↑ "http://www.popularmechanics.com/cars/trucks/g116/10-things-you-didnt-know-about-semi-trucks/?slide=5"
  5. ↑ "2013 Vehicle Technologies Market Report". ornl.gov.
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