It’s a first for this technology on a rigid truck, and is claimed to be capable of reducing fuel consumption and associated emissions by 15—30%.
Adgero unveiled what it hailed as “the world’s first operational road transport hybrid system” at the CV Show in April (2016), with its UltraBoostST regenerative braking system installed on an SDC 13.6-metre curtainsider trailer in the livery of Eddie Stobart.
Now, commercial vehicle fleet services giant Fraikin is making Adgero UltraBoost hybrid system available for rigid truck applications, claiming the technology will boost efficiency through fuel-savings and extra power, while also reducing emissions.
To make that work, Adgero is partnering with CNG (compressed natural gas) conversions specialist Alternatech, which is managing the conversion of the hybrid power system for the vehicle and the commercial development of the system in the UK.
Fraikin will then supply the Iveco EuroCargo Euro 6 test truck fitted with Adgero’s KERS technology to the unnamed operator for use on its urban UK delivery routes, including in Greater London.
Adgero’s system is based on an electrically driven axle comprising a YASA electric motor, advanced high-power graphene-based ultracapacitors, supplied by Skeleton Technologies, and an intelligent management system designed to track driver input and control regenerative braking and acceleration boost.
During braking, the electric motor becomes a generator, recovering kinetic energy that would otherwise be lost as heat and storing it in the ultracapacitors.
Then, when acceleration demand is sensed, the motor provides a controlled boost, so reducing diesel engine demand and emissions. Regenerative braking is also claimed to “significantly” reduce brake wear and associated maintenance costs.
Adgero president Mack Murray says including London in the demonstrator truck trial sends an important signal, given the city’s high-profile efforts to tackle diesel vehicle emissions.
“We are proud to partner with Fraikin and Alternatech to offer the first rigid lorry application of our technology to a market leader in logistics,” states Murray.
“Our solution will help demonstrate the efficiencies that companies can realise through reduced fuel consumption and greater power,” he adds.