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Optare Group and Traction Technology (UK) Ltd have signed a
Memorandum of Understanding which provides a
platform for the development of a diesel
electric hybrid drive system with a super
capacitor electrical energy storage facility.
The technology, unlike other hybrids currently in service in the
UK, uses a Mercedes Benz Euro 5 diesel engine
with super capacitors to store energy rather
than batteries and is expected to deliver a
significant saving in fuel consumption and
emissions when compared with a conventionally
powered Euro 4 vehicle of similar specification.
An Optare Versa bus will be used as a development and demonstration
vehicle and will retain the model’s standard
sub systems, such as the air generation and
power steering, to reduce the complexity
associated with many hybrid installations and
retain a high level of in-service durability and
reliability.
The agreement allows Optare to use the Traction Technology system across
its single-deck bus range where power outputs of
up to 150kw are required and overall lengths are
less than 12m.
A prototype vehicle is expected to run in service by mid 2008, with
customer vehicles available for delivery later
in the year.
Bob Coombes, Optare’s Group Managing Director, commented: “This
agreement with Traction Technology opens the
door to significant advantages for Optare
customers. Without doubt lower emission,
fuel-efficient buses are going to be a feature
on British streets in the years to come and this
new technology offers real advances. Optare are
determined to take a leading role in helping to
pioneer these advances and apply them in a
practical manner to the bus industry”.
Optare has a wide ranging series of initiatives under way aimed at
demonstrating the low fuel consumption
associated with its diesel powered buses. The
development of the Tempo single deck bus with
the Allison Hybrid system is now nearing
completion and will run in service early next
year. Further hybrid drive systems are being
considered so as to widen the options available
to customers and to ensure that this technology
is both reliable and affordable.
For further information please contact:
Martin Hayes, Communications Advisor 0207
494 8050
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