Bacterial enzyme converts carbon monoxide to hydrocarbons
Report: GM to sell S. Korean-made Captiva SUV In Japan

US Army TARDEC showcased diesel series hybrid CERV in run-up to Indy 500

The US Army’s Tank Automotive Research, Development and Engineering Center (TARDEC) earlier in May showcased the diesel series hybrid-electric Clandestine Extended Range Vehicle (CERV) (earlier post) as part of special events ramping to the Indianapolis 500.

Jointly designed by Quantum Fuel Systems Technologies and TARDEC’s National Automotive Center (NAC), the prototype CERV is equipped with a 1.4-liter diesel to drive the genset, and is designed for quick-paced mobility operations such as reconnaissance, surveillance and target designation. CERV pairs Quantum’s advanced all-wheel-drive diesel hybrid-electric powertrain with a light-weight chassis to produce a torque rating that exceeds 5,000 lb-ft (6,780 N·m).

The unit can maintain speeds of 80 mph (129 km/h) and climb 60 percent grades while reducing fuel consumption by up to 25% compared with conventional vehicles of comparable size.

Engineering TV interview with Paul Skalny, Director, National Automotive Center, TARDEC, on CERV powertrain and design.

Comments

Engineer-Poet

The CERV would appear to be able to charge from generators at a base, and perhaps co-fuel the turbodiesel. This would allow the military to use PV either stand-alone or built into tents and awnings to charge vehicles and provide other services. Being able to co-fuel the turbodiesel using e.g. a gasogene would allow "living off the land" using charcoal produced from locally available materials.

This permits military operations without having to transport nearly as much fuel. When the delivered cost of fuel can exceed $100/gallon, this is no small detail.

Herm

What?.. no techno geek is going to comment on the efficiency of a series vs parallel hybrid?

The comments to this entry are closed.