UK startup Tevva has begun the process of searching for a new round of investment, as it attempts to put its prototype range-extended electric truck powertrain into production.
The company currently has three vehicles operational, including one which is undergoing extended trials with delivery service UPS. The aim of the next round of investment gathering is to put the new system into production within three years.
The electric range extender powertrain can be fitted into an existing 7.5 tonne truck, either as a retrofit package or on the production line during the build process.
The drivetrain consists of a single 120kW electric motor, capable of producing 1800Nm from 0rpm, powered by 66kWh batteries located on the chassis. The drivetrain also has a 1.6-liter diesel ICE range extender unit to generate additional charge on the move.
The complete drivetrain is controlled by Tevva’s patent pending predictive range extender management system (PREMS). The system enables the best, most efficient use of electric range extended drivetrain without input from the driver.
With real time access to NOx and air quality data and GPS navigation, the vehicle knows when to use the range extender, such as during high discharge situations on motorways, and when to avoid use, such as in urban or poor air quality areas like towns and cities. This enables pure electric propulsion, delivering zero emissions where it matters most, says Tevva.
Asher Bennett, Tevva Motors CEO, said, “Our electric range extender technology removes the operational risk created by pure electric vehicles, allowing unlimited operational range, but typically spending the majority of a day’s operations on electric only. Our proprietary technology enables smart use of the range extender; fleets get the maximum use from the battery power, delivering full low emission benefits and cost savings.”
March 4, 2016