A world first: Hybrid Power Chassis for light commercial vehicles

In addition, a sales target of 40 percent of emission-free and low-emission cars - i.e. electric cars and plug-in hybrids - is to be achieved by 2030. AL-KO Vehicle Technology already has an intelligent solution proposal for this current requirement. Together with Huber Automotive AG, an established specialist for embedded automotive electronics, the chassis technology expert will present a world first at the IAA Commercial Vehicles 2018: the Hybrid Power Chassis. This hybrid system with plug-in technology offers the perfect solution for emission-free urban journeys with electric drive and longer, out-of-town tours with combustion engine, with permissible total weights between 3.5 and 5.0 tons. The special feature: The electrified rear axle with an output of 90 kW can be switched on if required, making the Transporter the first light commercial vehicle with a hybrid concept.

The Hybrid Power Chassis presented at the fair as a study enables emission-free, fully electric driving and at the same time unrestricted use of the combustion engine. The basis is the variable AL-KO lightweight chassis, which can be used as a modular system carrier. Depending on customer requirements, the battery capacity can be adapted to a range of up to more than 100 kilometres in fully electric operation. For longer distances, for example overland journeys, the vehicle's internal combustion engine can be used without restrictions. If E-Drive and combustion engine (booster) are used simultaneously, the fuel savings calculated in the study are 30 percent.

The powerful on-board charger with a charging capacity of 7 kW - or optionally 22 kW (230 V / 400 V) - and the recuperation strategy ensure short charging times and sufficient power. Intermediate loads during loading or unloading of the vehicle as well as during rest periods are possible at any time. Thanks to recuperation, the system can supply vehicles, for example with a refrigerated box body, with energy and act as a buffer when the vehicle is at a standstill.

This function can be individually adapted to different customer requirements. This means that applications such as lifting platforms, interior lighting or air conditioning systems can also be operated.

The Hybrid Power Chassis offers the following three driving modes:

• Hybrid Mode: Hybrid mode combines the E-Drive with internal combustion engine of the vehicle for greater efficiency. In addition, vehicle bodies can be supplied with energy. Important. This riding mode complies with the new WLTP standard.
• Electric Mode: The all-electric drive (maximum travel speed: 90 km/h) is effected via the high-torque electrical axis. This enables silent and emission-free travel through environmental zones, residential areas, city centres, factory buildings, local recreation areas or at airports.
• X-TRA Charge Mode: This automated mode is used to extend the electrical range of the battery and to ensure the additional electrical energy required. Thus, measures to maintain cold chain specifications are guaranteed.

Additional functions such as a 4x4 starting aid - for additional traction on slippery surfaces or on gradients - and various connectivity solutions, such as monitoring the cold chain or GPS and vehicle data transmission, are also possible.

The plug-in hybrid can be adapted to various basic vehicles such as Fiat, Mercedes Benz or VW. It represents an open, engine head-neutral solution for the future.

Further details from September 19 to 27, 2018 at the AL-KO Vehicle Technology stand at the
IAA Commercial Vehicles 2018 (Hall 13, Booth C41).

Captions:

AL-KO Hybrid Power Chassis_Hybrid Mode: The "Hybrid Mode" combines the E-Drive with the internal combustion engine of the vehicle, ensuring greater efficiency. This way, vehicle bodywork can also be supplied with energy.

AL-KO Hybrid Power Chassis_Chassis: The AL-KO Hybrid Power Chassis is based on the variable AL-KO lightweight chassis, which as a system carrier enables modular use of the battery packs and components.

AL-KO Hybrid Power Chassis_Antrieb: The electric drive of the AL-KO Hybrid Power Chassis. With the appropriate energy storage devices and the intelligent control unit, you can drive vehicles purely electrically for distances of up to 100 kilometres.