Enova Introduces Next-Generation Omni-series Inverter; First US Government Order for Ze Van
11 May 2010
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| The Omni-series inverter. Click to enlarge. |
Enova Systems has introduced its next-generation of power electronics with the new Omni-series 200kVA-capable power inverter for hybrid-electric and all-electric medium and heavy-duty commercial vehicles. (Earlier post.) Separately, Enova has received its first US Government order for its Ze all-electric walk-in step van.
In development since February 2009, the Omni-series inverter features a 50% smaller design package and double the continuous power of the current 90 kW system.
Extensive design validation testing is scheduled for completion in Q3 this year, and the Omni will be available for customer program development soon after that, said Enova COO John Mullins.
Power-source agnostic, the new Omni-series inverter also offers increased flexibility and ease-of-integration. With plug-and-play connectivity, it is compatible with a wide range of vehicle drive systems and motors, and can be configured for HEV, PHEV and EV applications. Features include:
- A proprietary new liquid cooling strategy enabling leading power density;
- Software configurable control allowing common hardware to be used across many sizes of hybrid or electric vehicles;
- Compatible with a wide range of induction and permanent magnet motors;
- True continuous power output of 110 kW, with peak over 200 kVA making the Omni capable of powering the Enova P90, P120, and even P240 drive systems;
- Heavy-duty cast aluminum chassis and robust design using minimal harnesses and interconnects allows flexible vehicle mounting in any orientation;
ZE order. On the heels of the Omni product introduction, Enova received its first order through the General Services Administration (GSA). This first deployment of EV step vans is part of Enova’s one-year renewable supplier contact with the GSA, which supplies vehicles for government agencies and armed forces.
The first order of Enova powered vans will be delivered to the US Army base located at Ft. Lewis, WA. Built to base specifications with a 157-inch wheel base chassis and a 14,500 lb. gross vehicle weight rating, the all-electric van is targeted for the unit’s Public Works department which provides general maintenance across the base.
Power inverters have evolved and will continue to evolve quickly like most electronic based components have done. GE has already incorporated inverters in many e-motors of different sizes. The technology will also evolve to optimize torque and efficiency at different rotation speeds. Complex multi-speed mechanical transmissions will not be required. Electronics will do a much better job.
Electrified vehicles are going through their normal infancy development period. There is much more to come. An interesting decade ahead.
Posted by: HarveyD | 11 May 2010 at 08:40 AM
How much more do they cost?
If they are such a good thing why do they have to sell to the US Gummint?
Are real people unwilling to pay for them before they have validated the design? Oh wait, we real people are paying for them.
Sigh...
Posted by: ToppaTom | 11 May 2010 at 09:30 PM
Electricity is so cheap that expensive equipment, like this, to use it, is questionable engineering and economics. Switched reluctance motors are lighter weight and more efficient and more reliable than any other motor, even induction motors. They should have been used in the TESLA for the higher power and speed needed. Old style DC motors with field coils and wound armatures with brushes are not yet abandoned by many railroads. And low frequency AC is used in many active locomotives with such motors. ..HG..
Posted by: Henry Gibson | 12 May 2010 at 02:22 PM